Combat in Hell: A Consideration of Constrained Urban Warfare

摘要

Armed forces are ever more likely to fight in cities as the world becomesincreasingly urbanized. Accordingly, public and moral concerns about the costs of war borne by noncombatants increase as well. This report is a study of urban warfare and its challenges for U.S. armed forces constrained by having to minimize noncombatant casualties and collateral damage. America's armed forces are likely to have to confront the hell of urban combat. They have the potential to do so successfully. However, this environment's challenging character is unalterable; it will consume any force that fights unprepared. This study will be of interest to armed forces personnel planning for or conducting operations and training in urban areas. Other governmental and nongovernmental agencies considering policies involving dedication of military assets in urban contingencies will likewise find material of value in determining the risks and potential costs of such policies.