Mountain Warfare: The Need for Specialist Training

摘要

This study focuses on the need for specialist training for mountain warfare. It analyzes the special characteristics of mountain and high altitude terrain which affect conduct of military operations. It identifies the differences between low and high mountain environment. It also discusses training prerequisites with regards to physical conditioning, acclimatization, living and operating in these environments . The study uses FM 3-97.0(Mountain Warfare Manual) as a primary reference as well as the Pakistani Army's experience in mountains of Kashmir, the Russian experience in Afghanistan and the performance of specially trained mountain troops in the Second World War including the elite German 'Gebirgsjagger' Corps and the U.S. 10th Mountain Division. The study also reflects upon that recent U.S. Army operations in Afghanistan to highlight some old issues and some new solutions . The study identifies the need for acclimatization training, specific leadership challenges to deal with the physical and psychological effects of mountain terrain, and the need for all arms and branches to train for mountain combat. It recognizes the value of specially trained mountain troops and the prerequisites for maintaining such a trained force. The study analyzes the training techniques of the Pakistani Army, U.S. Army and contemporary armies to synthesize the most essential training requirements for maintaining a mountain trained force. It concludes by providing specific recommendations for training and maintaining a truly mountain warfare capable force by the United States Army. It also provides certain recommendations with regards to organization and equipment and areas for inclusion in FM 3-97.0.