Not Light Enough to Get There, Not Heavy Enough to Win: The Case of US Light Infantry

摘要

The purpose of this paper is to develop an understanding of the concept for employment of our light infantry forces. Since 1979 there have been numerous articles and studies written on this subject. There is little agreement, however, as the how the light forces should be employed across the spectrum of conflict. Their primary orientation is toward low intensity conflict, but in fact, the emphasis is on the mid to high intensity spectrum. This paper begins with a discussion of previous efforts to create light infantry divisions. It then addresses our ability to deploy light forces, their augmentation, tactical employment, and training. Once these points are established, an analysis is made of the decision logic which added light infantry divisions to the force structure.