Tactical Deep Maneuver: Incorporating the Forward Detachment Concept into U.S.Doctrine

摘要

This monograph examines the interaction between tactical deep maneuver by forwarddetachments and non-linear warfare. Recent advances in technology, particularly in highly lethal precision guided munitions, have accelerated the trend toward delinearization. The Soviets developed the forward detachment concept to delay culmination and maintain a high tempo during offensive operations under non-linear conditions. This monograph determines whether U. S. Army deep battle doctrine should also incorporate this concept. This analysis indicates that historically, forward detachments are necessary when confronting a relatively sophisticated opponent; they are ideally suited to non-linear warfare; our capstone doctrine provides an excellent, if unrealized, framework for tactical deep maneuver; and the U. S. Army is uniquely capable of conducting forward detachment operations. The conclusion is the the U.S. Army should incorporate the forward detachment concept into its doctrine.