force that has a mobility advantage that is degraded by difficult terrain,
obstacles, weather, or can be offset by surprise or sly maneuvering.
Infantry units are not the best forces to oppose threat armor. However, if
the terrain and antitank guided missiles (ATGM) are properly matched, the
infantry's role against threat armor can be significantly expanded. A final
characteristic to remember about the infantry division is that it is
soldier-centered as opposed to equipment-centered. Next, we will consider
the capabilities of the infantry division.
Infantry Division Capabilities
As we have seen to this point, all types of divisions have their
Listed below are the capabilities of the
infantry division that are considered significant.
o
Maneuvers in areas which restrict the mobility of mechanized
forces (such as obstacles, built-up areas, mountains, forests,
and jungles).
o
Moves long distances during airmobile operations.
o
Organizes and conducts an area defense.
o
Operates with less combat service support than other divisions.
o
Operates in different weather and terrain.
o
Conducts riverline operations.
While the infantry division has its capabilities, it also has a collection
of limitations.
Next, we will present the limitations of the infantry
division.
Infantry Division Limitations
The infantry division has limitations that must be considered when assigning
such units against hostile forces. The significant limitations are listed
below:
o
Infantry units
cannot move quickly unless augmented with
transportation.
It has both limited airlift and ground
capability.
o
Has less organic firepower than its mechanized counterpart.
o
Limited protection against armor threat forces.
o
Limited protection against conventional and nuclear fires.
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