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LESSON 2: STAFF PROCEDURES DURING DECISION
MAKING
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Instructor Notes:
Author: Jalali, Sloan, Wardak
1. General: This one hour sublesson is focused on the manner in which
Soviet commanders and staff interact, especially during the decision making
process. The relationship between the other principal artillery officers is
also described.
2 Sub-lesson Introduction: Explain to the students that they will be acting as
commanders and chiefs of artillery in their work with the OPFOR teams. They
will have a brief opportunity to experience the practical of this through role
playing in the latter hours. In this lesson you will describe the complex
interactive process in which the Soviet commander and his chief of artillery
develop their plans for operations and battles. side
3. Teacher Learning Objective: During one hour, and indeed during one short
course, the students cannot be expected to become proficient staff officers,
Soviet or otherwise. However, they should be given a clear picture of the
Soviet decision process and the actions and contributions of the various
officers. The following tasks are planned to contribute to their understanding.
Task: Describe the general Soviet sequence and procedure for decision making.
Condition: Given assigned reference and student handouts.
Standard: The discussion should show the logical and chronological flow of
information and decisions from one level headquarters to the next lower
headquarters as well as the flow back and forth between the commander (command
channel) and the chief of artillery (staff specialty - combat arm and special
troops channel). Use the flow diagram as an illustration, but stress that it is
only a very austere representation of a very rich and complex process involving
a large number of officers. Then discuss the sequential nature of the
commander's decision process. Use the diagram of the steps of the decision
making process from clarification of mission through estimate of situation to
deductions and decision. This subject will be discussed in much more detail in
the course on operations planning, but should be mentioned here as a reminder.
Task: Describe the interaction between the headquarters staff (ie operations,
reconnaissance, etc) and the staff of the artillery directorate during the
decision making process.
Condition: Given assigned reference and student handouts.
Standard: The description should show how the two groups of staff officers
interact to support their principals between the time the directives are
received by the headquarters and the commander makes his decision for the
forthcoming operation. The students should come to realize that, in effect,
when playing the role of chief of artillery of a headquarters, they are also
simulating the efforts of an entire artillery staff of specialists.
Task: Describe the sequence and procedure for work by the chief of artillery
and his staff in making decisions on the employment of artillery.
Condition: Given assigned reference and student handouts.
Standard: This description should focus on the methods including calculations
used the artillery commander and staff to take the commander's decision and
develop it into a full plan for the employment of artillery. There is only time
to show and explain briefly the calculations. The class will not be expected to
memorize these, but only know where they can look to find examples when they
need them.
Task: Discuss the nature of artillery subordination.
Condition: Given assigned reference and student handouts.
Standard: Students should be familiar with US concepts for attachment and
support. Their reading contains a brief description of the Soviet concept.
Question one or two students to initiate a short discussion of the similarity
and differences between US and Soviet concepts.
Task: Describe the Soviet procedure and purpose for forming artillery groups at
regiment, division, and army level.
Condition: Given assigned reference and student handouts.
Standard: Thorough understanding of this topic will be essential for the
students to complete the practical exercises on distribution of artillery. The
description should include presentation of the basic norms for the sizes of
these artillery groups, the missions normally assigned to them in the offense
and defense, their locations on the ground in the combat formation, and when
they are formed and disbanded. The temporary and task oriented nature of
artillery groups must be stressed, as well as their role as executors rather
than planners of artillery support.
Task: Describe the relationship between combined arms commander, chief of
artillery, commanders of artillery units, and commanders of artillery groups.
Condition: Given assigned reference and student handouts.
Standard: This is one of the more difficult concepts for many students to
understand. A brief lecture presenting the material will be best. Presentation
by means of a diagram should help. The key concepts are: that the chief of
artillery is the constant staff advisor on artillery to his commander who plans
and exercises control over all the artillery elements in or supporting a unit
(ie mortars, anti-tank weapons, rockets, as well as artillery pieces); that all
artillery units and formations have permanent commanders who have heavy combat
responsibilities, especially for target assignment and decisions on firing; and
that the artillery groups (RAG, DAG, AAG, ARAG) are temporary organizations in
which a number of artillery battalions will be grouped to facilitate
coordinated fire and that these groups also must have individual commanders.
Task: Describe the Soviet antitank reserve.
Condition: Given assigned reference and student handouts.
Standard: The description should include the composition, mission, deployment
and method of action of antitank reserves for regiment, division, army, and
front. Emphasize the difference between antitank units themselves and
their role as the antitank reserve. Also include discussion of their
interaction with the mobile obstacle detachments.
Task: Describe Soviet combat supporting measures for artillery.
Condition: Given assigned reference and student handouts.
Standard: The description should begin with a general explanation of the Soviet
category of combat support measures. These are standard throughout the ground
forces. (The air, naval and missile forces have their own combat support
measures.) Some of these actions (such as reconnaissance and
maskirovka) will be covered in separate courses. Others will be
treated in a general way in relation to operations of combined arms units.
However, the student should become aware that each of these is also something
that the artillery command and staff plans and monitors with relation to its
specific application to artillery.
4. Level of Instruction: Analysis.
5. Method of Instruction: This hour is mostly lecture with as much discussion
as the instructor can generate on those issues already familiar to the
students.
6. Author's Intent: Overall - In this hour the students learn about the
procedural relationships in Soviet headquarters which govern the interaction of
commanders and staff officers. They focus in particular on the role of the
Chief of Rocket Troops and Artillery and on the interaction of the commander
and chief of RT&A during the decision making process at front, army,
and division levels. It will first review the principles of troop control and
the key steps in the decision process itself.
a. sequence of decision - Students will have read some background text. The
instructor will focus on the diagram (flow chart) which shows the process of
personal interaction between the commander and the chief of artillery at each
headquarters as well as the flow of command documents between headquarters.
Spend less time on the diagram of the steps of the commander's decision process
and remind the students that this subject is studied in more detail in the
course on operations.
b. interaction of staffs - This section continues the discussion of the
relation of artillery to combined arms with focus on the role of the entire
artillery staff and the operations staff in the preparation of plans,
instructions, and directives. Instructor may discuss the coming practical
exercise in role playing in which students can take the places of commander and
artillery chief in working out practical planning problem.
c. sequence of procedure of work - The instructor will show the content which
is expected by Soviets from their artillery staff and the prior preparations
required by the artillery staff in order to be ready to provide this content.
Samples of documents that will be prepared during later practical exercises may
be shown.
d. grouping of artillery - Instructor will lead examination of the tables
showing standard norms for the numbers of artillery battalions in artillery
groups and norms for density of artillery under various conditions. This
information will be used in later practical exercises.
e. nature of artillery subordination - Instructor leads a brief discussion of
U.S. and Soviet concepts for subordination (attached versus support roles).
Students will have written text of definitions.
f. relationship between combined arms commander and artillery - The Soviets not
only have a chief of artillery on the staff of regiment, division, and army
commanders, but also a commander of the artillery groups formed to support each
of these forces. (There are also commanders for the various artillery
battalions, regiments, and brigades which compose the artillery groups.) In
this period the instructor will discuss the differences in the roles of these
artillery officers and how they work together with the combined arms commanders
and staffs.
g. antitank reserves - Instructor reviews the standard norms for quantity and
density of antitank artillery and discusses general principles for creation of
antitank reserves. This information will be applied in later practical
exercises.
h. combat support measures - The students should understand the nature of the
concept of combat support in general and its specific application to artillery.
The nine categories of activity classified as combat support measures are
applicable to all branches and types of units. In fact some of them will be the
subject of entire classes in this series. However, in this section the student
should learn how they are planned for and supplied to artillery.
7. Equipment/Materials
Materials required
Staff procedure during decision making - This period is a lecture requiring
viewgraphs and several wall charts in addition to the outside reading.
8. Homework: Students should read the references given for lesson I. The book
on the artillery commander by Peredelski is especially relevant. For simplicity
we have transcribed extracts from the Peredelski book as well as from sections
of the Handbook and the Voroshilov Materials.
9. Annexes
Discussion agenda
Lecture notes
List of View graphs
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LESSON 2 DISCUSSION AGENDA
2 min - Lesson Introduction: Show the agenda for the lesson and explain its
purpose and place in the course.
VG 1
10 min a. sequence and procedure in decision making (diagram)
VG 2-3
7 min b. interaction between the staff and artillery staff during the decision
making
VG 4
7 min c. sequence and procedure of work of the chief of artillery and his staff
to make the decision on combat employment of artillery and planning the
artillery support.
VG 5
7 min d. relationship between combined arms commander, chief of artillery,
commander of artillery group (unit)
VG 6-7
4 min e. nature of artillery subordination
- attached;
- direct support;
- support.
VG 8
5 min f. grouping of artillery at the front, army, division, and
regiment level
VG 9-13
5 min g. antitank reserves, composition, mission, deployment, and method of
action
VG 14-18
10 min h. combat supporting measures of artillery:
VG 19-21
- reconnaissance;
-protection against mass-destruction;
-radio-electronic combat;
- maskirovka;
- security;
- topogeodetic support;
- meteorological support;
- rear service support;
- technical support.
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LECTURE NOTES FOR LECTURE 2
Report of chief of artillery mentions what is known and also what is
missing and needs to be learned.
What enemy group - name and how many rockets they have
If enemy uses nuclear strike what he is capable of destroying.
What is their range for targeting.
The formation or unit's nuclear artillery - what is its capability
What depth they can fire.
1. Make report on capability of NATO rockets and artillery targets to hit
- conventional artillery.
2. Status of own forces
- status - location - capability some units are in depth some in position -
some on move
- capability and status - what quantity and composition
- how many launchers and what yield etc.
3. Composition and capability of division, army or front artillery
- strength in personnel and equipment
- list numbers and information
- nuclear and chemical rounds for operation
-R300-2 R65-3
- how much destruction they can produce
-units of fire supply and support of artillery
Chief then tells what missions artillery can be employed to do.
Mentions targets of nuclear strike.
4. Number of rockets use against targets - - -
5. What artillery units need to be set up on basis of width of defense and
breakthrough sector.
- create artillery groups
-1/3 fire
-1/3 move
-1/3 get ready
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During the clarification of the mission by the commander the
actions of the artillery staff include the following:
- clarifying the instructions from the higher artillery staff and missile
forces;
- informing officers and staff of artillery on the received missions;
- preparing initial instructions for preparation of troops and staffs of
artillery and rocket for the forthcoming operation;
- regrouping of staff officers to fulfill their missions (tasks);
- preparing graphics of the daily activities of the staff;
- preparing data on the situation and status of artillery forces;
- preparing data and calculations on the combat capabilities of the artillery;
- preparing data and calculations on situation, status, and combat capabilities
of enemy rocket forces and artillery;
- preparing suggestions on combat employment of missile troops and artillery in
the operation;
- preparing the maps and other documents for planning;
- distributing the preparation time to subordinates;
- organizing artillery reconnaissance, planning, issuing combat missions to
subordinates, deploying the artillery from the concentration areas to the FUP
areas, engineer fortification of firing positions and command posts of
artillery, recognisrovka of terrain if conducted, combat support
measures, monitoring and rending assistance.
- preparing the calendar plan for preparation, planning, and documents and
preparation of artillery troops for fulfilling operations.
- organizing artillery reconnaissance.
Actions of Artillery Staff After Commander Makes his Decision
- preparation and writing combat orders to the missile and artillery forces;
- preparation of combat instructions on artillery to the subordinate staffs;
- preparation of plan for conduct of missile troops and artillery and the
annexes for the plan;
- participation in the planning for the initial nuclear strike;
- participation in planning for air assault and other special plans;
- participation in terrain recognisirovka if conducted;
- participation in planning for interaction;
- organization of political work in staffs and troops;
- preparation of planning of combat support( resupply of nuclear, chemical and
conventional warheads, resupply of ammunition, fuel, material means equipment)
- planning repair of artillery weapons;
- preparation of combat technical equipment and vehicles, and tractors, command
post machines, equipment of artillery, fire means, meteorological and
topo-geodetic equipment;
- organization of command post of artillery and support of communication
systems to subordinates;
- control of missile troops and artillery on their preparation;
- control of artillery as they occupy the FUP areas;
- preparation of the duty rocket units;
- preparation of missile forces to participate in the initial nuclear strike;
- preparation and monitoring main and alternate fire positions;
- organization of protection of artillery and missile against enemy use of mass
destruction weapons;
- monitoring and offering assistance;
- some of these activities may begin during the first period depending on the
situation.
Role of regiment artillery officer versus artillery battalion CO vs.
RAG commander.
Regimental artillery officer controls all artillery supporting the regiment
without direct command. This includes the battalion mortars, the RAG if there
is one or the regiment's own artillery battalion, and the antitank reserve. He
makes changes and plans. The RAG commander is a different person. He is the
executive who conducts artillery fire, particularly during the artillery
preparatory fire, which is the main phase in which a RAG will be formed anyway.
The commanders of artillery battalions have their hands full with their
personal responsibility to control the fire of their battalion, which they do
from an observation post/ command post, where they personally select targets.
When there is a (temporary) RAG formed, it will require the full attention of
its (temporary) commander to distribute the targets among the battalions and
maintain close coordination both between the artillery units and between the
artillery and the supported motor rifle unit.
Meanwhile the regimental chief of artillery is with his regimental commander
advising him on what the artillery is doing and what it can do and issuing
instructions not only to the RAG, but also to the mortars and anti-tank
reserve. This is in itself a full time and critical responsibility. The
regimental commander needs to have someone close by who can respond to his
needs to insure that the massive artillery support available is fully employed.
Moreover, the regimental chief of artillery, through his own staff, must look
out for ammunition and POL supply and maintenance requirements.
Furthermore, it is important to remember that the RAG is generally created to
conduct the artillery preparation for an attack, which almost be definition
means an attack on some level of prepared defense. For this the artillery will
have moved forward and deployed into firing positions well before the attack,
while the rifle and tank units are still in FUP areas far to the rear. Therefor
the regimental chief of artillery will be back with his regimental commander
and not available to supervise the elaborate preparation of these artillery
battalions. Furthermore the artillery preparatory fire is a responsibility of
the division artillery staff, who will have assembled both the targets and guns
into one comprehensive plan and issued the target lists to the RAG commander,
not the regimental chief of artillery.
The regimental chief of artillery really comes to the fore when the regiment
advances into combat (after the artillery preparatory fire is completed, and
during the assault support fire) and fire must be shifted from pre-planned
targets to more immediate concerns and new targets. Then when the regiment
continues the advance and artillery shifts to accompanying fire (at which time
the RAG may break up and the individual artillery battalions be divided into
those directly supporting each rifle battalion and those remaining under direct
control of the regiment), the regiment chief of artillery will have even more
coordination to accomplish.
Anti-tank reserves
In the offensive there are anti-tank reserves from front to army to
division and regiment. The anti-tank reserve missions are as follows:
- repel counterattacks;
- destroy enemy tanks;
- cover flank of second-echelon at time it enters combat;
- destroy airborne landings;
- cover open flanks of attacking formations during other times.
Anti-tank reserve in front if reinforced by units from the VGK reserve
1-2 established on main attack axis. Each reserve is one artillery brigade or
one artillery regiment. An army has anti-tank artillery regiment. Sometimes
army has 2 axis with an anti-tank reserve on each. But the norm for army is
only 1 artillery reserve. If army reserve created from reinforcement from
front or VGK, then army gives its own regiment to division on main
attack. Division also create artillery reserve - basis of its own artillery
battalion.
Division anti-tank battalion it gives to regiment on main attack axis. Each MRR
has anti-tank artillery reserve as well.
The width of coverage norms are in the table in Handbook.
- artillery plat - 400 m;
- artillery battery - 3 plat - 1.2 km width;
- battery can't cover more than 1-2 km wide;
- artillery battalion - 3-4 km wide;
- artillery regiment 8-12 km wide;
- artillery brigade 15-20 km wide.
These are capabilities of these units for each artillery reserve. The front
they cover consists of 3-4 lines in depth.
Preplanned lines of fire - lines against counterattack 5-10 km apart.
The artillery plan shows artillery reserve and fire lines on the map. For army
and division artillery reserves location of enemy tank units they may encounter
and their axis of advance.
The concept of the operation overall shows - where to commit second-echelon -
where river crossing - where counterattack - where consolidate on seized lines,
etc. where division line of repelling enemy counterattack will be. All of these
are best locations to preplan anti-tank reserve lines for deployment.
For the army plan it is concerned to repel the counterattack of corps reserve
and where to commit second-echelon division.
Front is concerned to repel counterblow of enemy.
As a rule anti-tank reserve operates in coordination with engineer reserve -
detachment mobile obstacle.
Each anti-tank reserve line of fire is determined.
During offensive the distance depends on comparative distance between front
lines, might be as much as 10 km.
The timing depends on own troops and enemy action.
The deployment depends on size of the reserve.
ATGM are located in areas where can see ground 3,000 m in front.
AT guns located where they can have maximum distance of fire.
ATGM better located higher ground.
AT unit has small arms - SAM - etc. for own defense.
It can establish also mine field with density of 1 mine per meter.
In offense 800-1,200 m frontage for mining unit.
In defense can lay obstacles better.
Combat Support Measures
VG 1. reconnaissance
2. prep positions - use training exercise - create several alternate positions.
Attacking combined arms units are coming from interior, as they cross border
and attack enemy's main positions deep in enemy territory, then position for
artillery are prepared during operation.
All artillery equipment, weapons, OP's, etc. must be concealed and camouflaged.
3. maskirovka in different forms and methods |
- use of local materials and terrain and colors use camouflage nets
Air defense of artillery group and rockets - means of air defense of
front and army and division forces.
4. Defense of forces against mass-destruction - in support measures established
in an area system to cover entire front area - during operation area expands
and reserves of VGK may be provided
Protection against mass-destruction - must be organized in combat support
measures - includes reconnaissance and surveillance and warning of enemy
nuclear attack. - organization and prep of rescue detachments.
Evacuation of forces during enemy nuclear attack a complex condition is created
- difficult - each nuclear burst becomes a center of casualties.
-directions to leave area also specified
-conduct of special decontamination also planned
5. Prepare of supply of ammunition
Combat Readiness as troops assemble in local concentration (alert) area on
alert
- reception area set up by local commissariat to receive reservists - these
people join unit after it is in field
- check documents and registration etc. in first place - vehicle sent one place
- to collect staff and troops
- vehicles which pass test go to marshal personnel, ones that don't pass are
returned
- - another place to repair equipment
Representative of unit will divide group into several groups individuals
assigned by specialty or as needed.
Supply system principle - from higher to lower - higher is responsible for
supply - all formations units subunits have norms for supply.
Picture of units of fire description in army - front bases etc.
Rear service support
- all supplies for army division and regiment are mobile reserves in mobile
base - at front level forward base is mobile but front rear bases not mobile
Topographic and hydrometerological are support measures-
- the planning - firing data is provided by these.
Radio-electronic is critical support measure.
- mission protect own radio from enemy attack
-- jam-suppression etc.
-REC aspect for artillery is to protect artillery ?
-- offensive REC is conducted by others
- VG on combat readiness
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There are three levels of readiness of rocket troops
- constant level - normal peacetime level at full strength etc. conduct
training according to plan not in conservation status - but at ready level for
operations.
-Higher Combat Readiness
Pay much attention - try to cut time for units to leave garrison to minutes -
want to get out before rocket from US reaches - 25 min
-tank regiment in garage - tank engines turned on from central location - tanks
remotely turned on so engines were warm by the time men got there.
-duty officer could push button - turn on engines panel of lights show which
measured status and achievement of various stages of preparation.
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LIST OF VIEWGRAPHS LESSON 2
VG 1- Lesson outline
VG 2- Flow Diagram of decisions and staff work between headquarters
VG 3- Diagrams of sequence of decision making process
VG 4- Interaction of staffs
VG 5- Action of artillery staff after decision
VG 6- Sequence of work of artillery chief and commander
VG 7- Relationship of regimental artillery officers
VG 8- Artillery subordination
VG 9- Artillery groups established during penetration of enemy defenses
VG 10- Principle missions of the army artillery group
VG 11- Army reactive artillery group
VG 12- Missions of divisions artillery group's
VG 13- Regimental artillery group (RAG)
VG 14- Anti-tank reserve tasks
VG 15- Coverage capability in width of front
VG 16- Typical composition of anti-tank reserves
VG 17- Missions of anti-tank reserves
VG 18- Front anti-tank reserve
VG 19- Elements included in combat supporting measures
VG 20- Reasons for taking combat supporting measures
VG 21 - Combat support measures of artillery
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ARTILLERY - LESSON II
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STAFF PROCEDURES IN DECISION - MAKING
Flow of directives and instructions between headquarters
Steps in decision process
Interaction of commander and staff officers
Headquarters activities in support of commander
Work of artillery staff
Types of artillery subordination
Artillery groups
Artillery commanders
Anti-tank reserves
Combat support measures
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INTERACTION OF STAFFS
During the clarification of the mission by the commander the actions of the
artillery staff include the following:
- clarifying the instructions from the higher staff;
-/informing officers and staff on the received missions;
- preparing initial instructions;
- regrouping of staff officers;
- preparing graphics of the daily activities;
- preparing data on artillery forces;
- preparing data and calculations on the artillery;
- preparing data and calculations on enemy rocket forces and artillery;
- preparing suggestions on combat employment of missile troops and artillery;
- preparing the maps and other documents for planning;
- distributing the preparation time to subordinates;
- organizing artillery planning, issuing combat missions to subordinates,
deploying the artillery from the concentration areas to the FUP areas, engineer
fortification of firing positions and command posts of artillery,
recognisrovka of terrain, combat support measures, monitoring and
rending assistance.
- preparing the calendar plan;
- organizing artillery reconnaissance.
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ACTIONS OF ARTILLERY STAFF AFTER COMMANDER'S DECISION
- preparation and writing combat orders;
- preparation of combat instructions;
- preparation of plan and its annexes;
- participation in the planning for the initial nuclear strike;
- participation in planning for air assault and other special plans;
- participation in terrain recognisirovka if conducted;
- participation in planning for interaction;
- organization of political work in staffs and troops;
- preparation of planning of combat support
- planning repair of artillery weapons;
- preparation of combat technical equipment;
- organization of command post of artillery and support of communication
systems to subordinates;
- control of missile troops and artillery on their preparation;
- control of artillery as they occupy the FUP areas;
- preparation of the duty rocket units;
- preparation of missile forces to participate in the initial nuclear strike;
- preparation and monitoring main and alternate fire positions;
- organization of protection of artillery and missile against enemy use of mass
destruction weapons;
- monitoring and offering assistance;
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SEQUENCE OF ORGANIZATION - ARTILLERY COMMANDER CHIEF OF RT&A
Receives operational mission Receives instructions from Chief RT&A
Clarifies mission Clarifies instructions
Briefs Chief of RT&A Report to commander on artillery on outcome of
clarification missions received from higher hqs and issues initial instruction
Make estimate of situation Does the following:
- with staff assistance estimate situation on basis of higher echelon's
instructions.
- issue instructions to artillery units on combat readiness, reconnaissance,
and artillery cover, etc.
- coordinate artillery tasks with air army.
- prepare suggestions to commander on establishment of artillery groups and
employment of artillery means.
-Commander makes decision and issues missions
Chief RT&A conducts:
-clarification of artillery mission.
-estimate of situation.
- makes decision on use of artillery.
Staff conducts planning Staff participates and contributes including completes
the artillery plan and annexes such as initial nuclear strike.
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RELATIONSHIP OF REGIMENTAL ARTILLERY OFFICERS
Role of regimental (other) chief of artillery.
- planning artillery fire
- ammunition supply
- regrouping artillery
- coordination of artillery and other fire
Role of artillery unit commanders
- all command functions
- direct artillery fire from CP/OP
Role of artillery group commanders
- execute fire preparation missions
- integrate and shift fire of multi-battalion force
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ARTILLERY SUBORDINATION
- attached;
- direct support;
- support.
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ARTILLERY GROUPS ESTABLISHED DURING PENETRATION OF ENEMY DEFENSES
army artillery group (AAG);
army's reactive artillery group (AGRA);
divisional artillery group (DAG);
regimental artillery groups (RAG).
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PRINCIPLE MISSIONS OF THE ARMY ARTILLERY GROUP
destroy enemy nuclear delivery means and fight against them;
destroy and suppress enemy artillery;
reinforce first-echelon division's fire, particularly divisions attacking the
main direction;
destroy and suppress enemy immediate reserves, particularly on directions of
penetration and main attacks;
fire assistance (support) of large units operating on directions of main
attacks;
disrupt enemy command and control.
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ARMY REACTIVE ARTILLERY GROUP
multiple rocket launcher battalions from front VGK division;
used on main attack axis;
capable of rapid maneuver.
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MISSIONS OF DIVISION ARTILLERY GROUP'S
fight enemy nuclear delivery means;
destroy and suppress enemy immediate reserves;
destroy and suppress enemy artillery;
reinforce fire of regiments artillery groups.
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REGIMENTAL ARTILLERY GROUP (RAG)
3-4 battalions;
missions in direct support of regiment;
part supports first echelon battalions and then may be attached for
accompanying fire.
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ANTI-TANK RESERVES
front anti-tank reserve;
army anti-tank reserve;
division anti-tank reserve;
regiment anti-tank reserve;
mobile obstacle detachment
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COVERAGE CAPABILITY AGAINST TANKS IN TERMS OF WIDTH OF FRONT
platoon covers a 400 m front;
battery covers a 1,000-1,200 m front;
division's separate antitank battalion may cover a 3-4 km front;
army's antitank regiment may cover a 8-19 km front;
an antitank brigade of the Supreme High Command's reserve may cover a 15-20 km
front;
average army of 5 divisions may have 594 antitank weapons, with a norm of 2
tanks destroyed per weapon this gives total of 1200 enemy tanks or the tanks of
4 to 5 enemy divisions.
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TYPICAL COMPOSITION OF ANTITANK RESERVES AT DIFFERENT LEVELS
division's separate antitank battalion constitutes the divisional antitank
reserve;
army's antitank regiment constitutes the army's antitank reserve;
antitank brigade of the Supreme High Command reserve may constitute
front antitank reserves.
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MISSIONS OF ANTITANK RESERVES
destroy enemy tanks which have penetrated into the defense;
reinforce antitank defense;
repulse enemy strikes of large units of tanks;
cover flanks of second-echelon troops against tank attacks during the conduct
of counterblows;
destroy enemy airborne troops;
cover opened and threatened flanks.
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FRONT ANTI-TANK RESERVE
deploy 60-70 km from FEBA on likely tank axis;
establish 2-3 fire lines, 10 km apart;
front anti-tank reserve plus anti-tank reserve of one army may cover
30-31 km. of front and repel attack of up to 2 enemy divisions.
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COMBAT SUPPORT MEASURES OF ARTILLERY
artillery reconnaissance;
prepare artillery positions, protected places (shelters) for personnel, covered
areas for vehicles and equipment, observation posts and facilities, and
protected places for ammunition;
conceal (maskirovka) positions and terrain, engineer work, and weapons
and combat equipment;
air defense against enemy air strikes;
protect troops against mass-destruction weapons;
supply ammunition and artillery equipment;
topogeodetic, topographic, and hydrometeorological support;
radio-electronic combat.
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REASONS FOR COMBAT SUPPORTING MEASURES
to create favorable conditions for friendly fires;
to reduce the effectiveness of enemy nuclear and conventional fire and actions
of enemy troops;
to destroy the enemy's troop control system.
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ELEMENTS IN COMBAT SUPPORTING MEASURES
acquisition of reconnaissance and reconfirming reconnaissance information on
enemy targets;
preparation of position areas;
concealment of (maskirovka) of position, engineer installations of the
terrain, weapons and combat equipment;
protection of troops against enemy mass-destruction weapons;
close security;
defense against enemy air strikes;
radio-electronic combat;
rocket supporting measures;
topogeodetic, topographic, and hydrometeorological support;
rear service, material, and medical support.
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THREE LEVELS OF COMBAT-READINESS FOR ROCKET TROOPS
1. Constant Combat-Readiness of Rocket Troops: Personnel conduct their
routine training in accordance with designated plans and are capable of
conducting assigned missions. Equipment is ready for combat employment.
Armament, ammunition, and material means are supplied up to the norms.
2. Higher Combat-Readiness: A state of combat-readiness from which the units
and subunits may be brought to full combat-readiness in the shortest time In
this state of combat-readiness all units and subunits are brought back to the
garrison from exercise areas and other off-post duties. They are put on a full
on-post accommodation. Combat duty detail is reinforced and combat service is
conducted in full combat-readiness. Officers and men are called back from leave
status. Ammunition, material means, and other supplies and equipment are loaded
on vehicles. Units and subunits are ready to move out from the garrison.
Operational groups with signal communication means are detached to command
posts. Two to three hours is required to bring the rocket troops to the state
of higher readiness.
3. Full Combat-Readiness: Assumed in accordance with the plan or on combat
alert signals. Under this state of combat-readiness the units and subunits move
out of their garrisons to assembly areas and position areas. They then occupy
fire positions. Units and subunits conduct technical readiness, launching pads
(systems) are loaded, and units get prepared for the conduct of missions. Units
and subunits in assembly areas are augmented up to full combat strength on the
account. of the mobilization reserves.
The time needed to achieve full combat-readiness in 6.5-7 hours for the rocket
brigades excluding the time required to cover the necessary distance.
Full combat-readiness is a state in which rocket troops and artillery may
rapidly initiate the conduct od combat missions, i.e., armies and front rocket
brigades and rocket battalions of motorized rifle and tank divisions deploy in
their position areas and they are ready to initiate actions planned in the
front's initial nuclear strike.
In full combat-readiness start batteries are in main or start positions in the
state of readiness number 3, 2, 2A, or 1.
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LEVELS OF COMBAT-READINESS IN ROCKET AND ARTILLERY TROOPS
1. Constant Combat-Readiness: Units and sub-units are kept at full combat
strength as much as possible. Units conduct their daily training in accordance
with the plan. They are capable of conducting assigned missions. Weapons and
equipment are ready for combat employment. Weapons, ammunition, and other
supplies are kept up to norms.
2. Higher State of Combat-Readiness: Rocket and artillery units may be brought
to the state of full combat-readiness in the shortest period of time. In this
state of combat-readiness all units and sub-units are brought to full garrison
accommodation, combat duty service is reinforced, and combat service is
conducted in full combat-readiness. Officers and men are called to duty form
leave. Material means and ammunition are loaded in vehicles. Units and
sub-units are ready to move out from the garrisons. Operational groups with
signal equipment are sent to command posts.
3. Full Combat-Readiness: Assumed in accordance with the plan and by the signal
of combat alert. In this state of combat-readiness units and sub-units move out
of their permanent garrisons to assembly areas or to position areas and occupy
fire positions. Necessary combat preparations are made by units and subunits so
they are ready to conduct combat missions. Simultaneously, units and subunits
are brought up to full combat strength by using mobilization reserves.
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EXCERPTS ON COMBAT SUPPORT
Responsibilities of the Division Commander and the Staff in
Organizing Measures for Supporting the Troop's Combat Actions
The responsibilities of the commander and staff in organizing all-around
support for the combat actions of the troops is conducted for the purpose of
timely and complete satisfaction of the ever growing troop requirements in the
battle, precise harmonization of plans for different types of support among
themselves and with the over all plan of the battle as well. The combat support
measures at the division level are as follows:
- reconnaissance;
- protection against mass-destruction weapons;
- maskirovka;
- radio-electronic combat;
- topogeodetic support;
- meteorological support;
- engineer support;
- chemical support;
- rear service support;
- security.
Organizing all-around support for the troops' combat operation involves the
following:
- determining the tasks of each type of support;
- composition of forces and means to be employed for carrying out supporting
measures;
- assigning missions to the executing elements and determining the methods for
their completion.
The basis and the initial data for organizing combat support includes the
following:
- instructions of the higher command on each type of support;
- the division commander's decision for the battle;
- the division commander's instructions on combat support measures;
All-around support of troops during the battle is organized by the staff and
chiefs of combat arms, special troops, and services. The division chief of
staff exercises direct supervision of this work. He issues instructions on the
formulation of plans and coordinates the work of chiefs of combat arms, special
troops, and services and defines concretely the tasks set by the division
commander in his instructions on combat support.
The general content of the division commander's instructions on support of the
troop's combat action can vary. In all cases the division commander's
instructions include the following:
- tasks for each type of support;
- forces and means allocated to each type of support;
- the basic measures to be conducted for the accomplishment of these tasks;
- the deadlines for having each type of support ready.
The procedures the division commander and staff will decide upon in organizing
support of the combat actions are determined by the time allotted for
preparation of the battle and by the established method of organizing the work
of the staff and control organs in the division. Under the successive method of
work, for all types of support or for those which are especially important to
the troops conducting the combat mission, the division commander may not only
specify the basic missions for supporting measures and the required forces and
means, but he may also examine in detail suggestions of his staff on the
methods of employment of forces and means in support of the battle.
When time for preparing combat support is limited, and the concurrent method of
work is used, the division commander, the chief of staff, and chiefs of combat
arms, special troops, and services independently plan measures for support on
the basis of the division commander's instructions issued by him in his
decision or announced in his concept of the battle.
The division staff, and the chiefs of combat arms, special troops, and services
plan their corresponding support measures, dispatch to subordinates the
necessary instructions, monitor their execution, and update tasks regarding
support during battle.
One of the characteristics of the work of the staff on organizing support for
combat action is that a whole series of measures must be accomplished in
practice during the phase of preparing for the battle.
Reconnaissance
Reconnaissance should primarily reveal the intention of the enemy as well as
the likely time and nature of his actions. The staff must insure the build up
of reconnaissance forces and means to provide for disclosure and surveillance
of key enemy targets located deep in the enemy's combat formation. It must also
insure the receipt of reconnaissance data from adjacents and from formations of
other services of the armed forces, when possible during the preparation of
combat. During this period, with the permission of higher command, other
methods of obtaining necessary reconnaissance data may also be used.
Reconnaissance, as the most important type of combat support for the troops, is
organized by the commanders and staffs at all levels. Its purpose is to acquire
information on the enemy, on the terrain, on the weather, and on the area of
impending combat action. The most important measures for organizing
reconnaissance are the following:
- defining the fundamental tasks and the aim of reconnaissance;
- planning and dispatching tasks to executing elements;
- coordinating efforts of all types and methods of reconnaissance;
- preparing the reconnaissance forces and means to conduct the assigned
missions;
- monitoring the execution of instructions issued and giving practical
assistance to the staff and the troops in the execution of the tasks assigned
to them;
- gathering and processing reconnaissance data, reporting it to the commander
and the higher command and communicating it to subordinate (interacting) troops
and adjacents.
In organizing reconnaissance, the division commander usually specifies the
following points:
- what reconnaissance data is to be acquired and by what deadline;
- where the main efforts of reconnaissance are to be concentrated and for the
execution of which tasks;
- what forces and means are to be used for reconnaissance.
The division reconnaissance section works out the reconnaissance plan on the
basis of the commander's decision, his instructions on planning reconnaissance,
and instructions from the higher command on reconnaissance.
The division reconnaissance plan is normally worked out on a 1/50,000 or
1/100,000 scale map with written instructions or in written form with map
annex. (The format of the plan is shown in Chapter Five). The reconnaissance
plan reflects the following:
- the aim of reconnaissance;
- the basic tasks of reconnaissance;
- forces and means assigned to conduct reconnaissance and their distribution
according to the tasks;
- the deadlines to accomplish tasks;
- the procedure for submitting reconnaissance information;
- reserves of reconnaissance forces and means;
- etc.
The reconnaissance plan is signed by the division chief of staff and the chief
of reconnaissance. It is approved by the division commander. During the conduct
of combat action, the division staff revises the reconnaissance plan as the
changing situation requires and assigns additional tasks to reconnaissance
forces and means. In order to conduct reconnaissance in an effective way the
division chief of staff and chief of reconnaissance should work to effectively
coordinate the efforts of all types and methods of reconnaissance such as:
- combined arms reconnaissance: reconnaissance patrols and reconnaissance
detachments, observation post and combat reconnaissance patrols using the
method of observation, listening, interception, searches, ambushes, raids, and
reconnaissance in force;
- interrogating prisoners and defectors and debriefing the population; study of
documents, samples of weapons and equipment;
- long-range SPETZNAZ reconnaissance;
- aerial reconnaissance (the division staff is obliged to organize reception of
data from aerial reconnaissance which is transmitted from piloted and pilotless
reconnaissance aircraft and supporting aviation aircraft;
- radio and radio technical reconnaissance;
- air defense radar reconnaissance;
- artillery reconnaissance;
- engineer reconnaissance;
- radiation, chemical, and bacteriological reconnaissance.
The depth to which the reconnaissance is planned and conducted must insure
timely forecasting of changes in the situation affecting the division and
acquiring information on enemy targets to permit their destruction within the
entire range of the division's forces and means.
Reconnaissance can successfully carry out the missions assigned to it only when
it is conducted purposefully, continuously, aggressively, promptly, and
efficiently and when it is characterized by covertness, reliability, and
accuracy in determining the coordinates of reconnoitered targets.
Fulfillment of these reconnaissance requirements pre-supposes strict
subordination of reconnaissance measures to the division commander's decision,
their constant conduct and persistent acquisition of the needed information by
interested persons exactly on time, rapid analysis and evaluation of
reconnaissance information to insure its immediate utilization; timely
intensification or shifting of the reconnaissance efforts, maintenance of
secrecy of all reconnaissance measures and deception of the enemy; and
acquisition of information corresponding fully to the real situation on the
battlefield.
Defense Against Enemy Mass-Destruction Weapons
One of the most important types of combat support is protection of the troops
against mass-destruction weapons given the possibilities of the enemy using
them. The aim of protection against mass-destruction weapons is to neutralize
or weaken to the maximum extent possible the impacts of nuclear, chemical,
biological, and high precision ammunition on the troops and rear service
targets, to preserve their combat capabilities, and to insure successful
execution of combat missions. Protection against mass-destruction weapons
includes the following measures:
- promptly detecting the enemy's preparation for using such weapons;
- forecasting of the areas of destruction, radioactive and chemical
contamination, demolitions, floods, and fires;
- radiation, chemical, and bacteriological reconnaissance;
- warning of the troops and rear area installations about radioactive,
chemical, and bacteriological contamination;
- dispersion, camouflage, and periodic changing the areas of deployment of the
troops and rear service installations;
- use of defensive properties of combat equipment, transport vehicles, and
terrain;
- engineer preparation of the terrain;
- supplying the troops with protective equipment and knowledge of its use;
- selecting the most appropriate methods for passing through contaminated areas
and providing for the protection of the troops during their combat actions in
contaminated areas;
- monitoring of decontamination of radiation and chemical decontamination of
personnel, equipment, ammunition, material, animals, and water;
- medical and veterinary measures (anti-epidemic, public health, and special
preventive measures);
- eliminating the consequences of the enemy's employment of mass-destruction
weapons.
Forecasting the areas of destruction, radioactive and chemical contamination,
demolitions, floods, and fire is conducted with a view to the following:
- determine the possible losses of forces and means;
- introduce the required changes in the grouping and action of the troops and
the rear area;
- revise their missions;
- generally determine the nature and volume of work involved in elimination of
the consequences of the enemy's use of mass-destruction weapons.
When forecasting the following are established:
- boundaries of lethal areas of radioactive contamination and dispersion in
this area of levels (doses) of radiation;
- areas of possible damage (floods and fires);
- areas of contamination by toxic agents and time for their natural
decontamination;
- direction and depth of scattering of contaminated air with dangerous
concentrations.
Radiation, chemical, and bacteriological reconnaissance in the division is
organized by the division staff. Direct control of radiation and chemical
reconnaissance is conducted by the chief of chemical service. Bacteriological
reconnaissance is directed by the medical and veterinary service.
Warning of the troops and rear area installations about radioactive, chemical,
and bacteriological contamination is organized with a view to promptly take
measures for protection. For warning, a single, constantly operating signal is
established for all kinds of contaminations. It is transmitted as a top
priority via all communications nets (links). The signals are established by
the division staff. A warning signal is issued on the basis of reconnaissance
data, and upon the use of chemical weapons, forecasting takes place.
Instructions on releasing a signal are issued as a rule by the commander of
subunits (units, large units, i.e., division) and by the chief of rear service
installations. Upon detection of chemical contamination, chemical observation
posts and observers of subunits independently issue a warning signal.
Dispersion, camouflage, and periodic changing the troop's deployment areas and
rear service installations are conducted in order to hamper the enemy in
selecting targets for destruction with mass-destruction weapons. The degree of
dispersion is established by the division (regiment) commander. The dispersion
degree depends on the following:
- mission to be accomplished;
- characteristics of the terrain;
- engineer preparation of the terrain;
- likely power of the enemy's mass-destruction weapons to be used;
- troop control capabilities.
The distance between battalions, usually in unprepared terrain, reaches three
to five kilometers. A battalion occupies an area of approximately four to five
square kilometers. All areas of troop deployment are camouflaged in all sorts
of situations.
Periodic changing of troop deployment areas are conducted to move troops away
from possible locations of the enemy's mass-destruction weapons strikes. Change
of position is foreseen for units and subunits in second-echelons, reserves,
and other elements of combat formations located deeper in the formation, and
for control points. Alternate areas (positions) are prepared beforehand to
facilitate this change. The alternate areas must be far enough away from the
main areas to exclude destruction of one unit or subunit located in one area by
an enemy strike on another area. The change of area (position) is conducted on
the instruction of the senior commander covertly and quickly without negatively
affecting the conduct of combat mission. Deceptive actions may be carried on in
areas abandoned by the troops.
Use of protective properties of the combat equipment, transport means, and
terrain and its engineer preparation significantly decreases the losses of
forces and means when the enemy uses mass-destruction weapons. The radiation
doses of personnel in tanks are reduced ten fold, in APCs four fold, and in
vehicles two fold. The radii of destruction of personnel and equipment by
nuclear weapons in narrow, deep, and tortuous hollows, ravines, underground
excavations, quarries, and forests are decreased on the average by 1.5 times in
comparison with deployment on open terrain. However, forests, hollows, ravines,
and excavations further prolong stagnation of the vapors from chemical weapons
agents and bacterial aerosols. Engineer preparation of the terrain decreases to
a significant extent the destruction of troops from mass-destruction weapons.
Timely use of individual means of protection provides a reliable protection for
personnel against destruction by chemical and bacteriological weapons and
against penetration inside the organism and on to the skin of radioactive
substances. It also decreases the level of damage by thermal radiation.
Selection of the most appropriate methods of passage through the zones of
contamination depend upon the type and the degree of contamination, the nature
of demolitions, the terrain condition, and the combat situation. In all cases
the division commander and staff must insure that the methods for passing
through areas of contamination provide for successful execution of assigned
missions and minimum irradiation and contamination of troops. The common
methods of passage are as follows:
-passage through areas with lower levels of contamination;
- passage through contaminated area in protected vehicles (tanks, APCs,
helicopters, etc.);
- passage after the level of contamination has relatively dropped;
- bypassing the contaminated areas;
- a combination of above.
Monitoring the radiation level and chemical contamination level of personnel,
combat equipment, material means, animals, and water is conducted in order to
determine the following:
- capability of the personnel to be active without individual means of
protection;
- volume of work in decontaminating troops;
- reliability of conducting decontamination.
Monitoring of contamination is conducted, as a rule after the troops have been
in contaminated areas, as well as after conducting a total (full)
decontamination. Measures by medical and veterinary services are carried out in
order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases among personnel when the
enemy uses bacteriological weapons, as well as for warding off damage to
animals by mass-destruction weapons.
Eliminating the effects of the enemy's use of mass-destruction weapons is
conducted in order to restore control, combat capabilities of the troops, and
operation of the rear service, saving personnel and rendering assistance to the
wounded and sick. This includes the following measures:
- reconnaissance of the centers of contamination by nuclear, chemical,
bacteriological, and high precision weapons;
- rescue work and treatment-evacuation measures;
- decontaminating the troops;
- restoring routes and paths for maneuvering the troops and extinguishing and
localizing fires;
- decontaminating material means and purifying water;
- isolating and limiting measures and fighting against pathogenic agents in
centers of bacteriological contamination.
Protection against mass-destruction weapons is organized and conducted by
commanders and staffs at all levels in the division and under all conditions of
combat situations.
When organizing protection against mass-destruction weapons, the division
commander defines the most important measures. Depending on the situation and
the assigned mission he specifies the following:
- the areas or lines along which the use of mass-destruction weapons of the
enemy is most probable;
- the tasks of radiation and chemical reconnaissance, the deadlines for
conducting reconnaissance, and the forces and means allocated;
- the procedure for dispersing units and subunits and the periodic changing of
areas where they are deployed;
- the volume of work involved in engineer preparation of the terrain;
- the deadline for conducting basic measures by the medical and veterinary
services;
- measures for eliminating the consequences of enemy use of mass-destruction
weapons, etc.
The division staff (operation section in particular), on the basis of the
division commander's decision, his instructions on protection against
mass-destruction weapons, and the instructions of the higher command on the
issue, jointly with the chiefs of combat arms and special troops and services
work out the details of measures for protection of troop and rear service
installations against mass-destruction weapons, organizes the execution of
these measures, and conducts monitoring.
Measures for protection of the troops and the rear area installations against
mass-destruction weapons are reflected in all combat (planning) documents of
the division. Instructions on protection measures are issued to the units and
the rear service of the division in separate instructions.
Protection against incendiary weapons is provided by a series of measures which
pertain to engineer preparation of the terrain, dispersion of fire fighting
measures in troop deployment areas and using the protective characteristics of
the terrain and combat equipment.
Maskirovka
Maskirovka is among the most important types of combat support. It is
conducted to achieve the following aims:
- conceal friendly troops from all types of enemy reconnaissance;
- deceive the enemy about the grouping of forces and means, intentions and
actions of the friendly troops, and hamper the enemy in his selection of
targets for destruction by fire and air strikes;
- insure undetected preparation and sudden delivery of attack by friendly
forces.
The basic measures of maskirovka are as follows:
- maintaining the secrecy of organizing and planning the combat action of the
division;
- dispersed and covered positioning and movement of troops;
- using camouflage properties of terrain, darkness, and other conditions of
limited visibility (fog, rain, etc.);
- using organic and improvised means of concealment and painting equipment and
installations to match the color of the terrain;
- signal security and deception;
- light concealment and masking;
- sound and acoustic masking;
- radar camouflage;
- engineer preparation of dummy (deceptive) locations of the troops and dummy
targets;
- conducting deceptive movements and deceptive actions;
- secrecy in conducting engineering work;
- using smoke screens.
Maskirovka must be conducted in accordance with the situation as it
evolves and with regard for its forecasted development. It includes
implementing both protective and active measures to counteract all types of
enemy reconnaissance. A sufficient quantity of forces and means is to be
allocated for the conduct of maskirovka measures. The most important
requirements of maskirovka are the following:
- aggressiveness (activeness);
- credibility;
- continuity;
- diversity.
Aggressiveness (activeness) is achieved when under all conditions and by means
of all available forces and means and different methods, persistent efforts are
made to impose a false impression of the status, actions, and intentions of the
friendly troops on the enemy. Credibility of maskirovka presupposes
that the measures implemented are characterized by plausibility and correspond
to real conditions of the situation, with the capabilities of all types of
enemy's reconnaissance taken into consideration.
The continuity of maskirovka involves constant implementation of
measures during the entire course of the preparation and conduct of the battle
and in all situations. The diversity of maskirovka excludes
stereotyping and implementing planned measures and the use of new means
whenever possible new methods and new procedures in conducting
maskirovka. The principle methods of maskirovka are the
following:
- concealment;
- simulation;
- feints;
- disinformation.
Concealment entails preventing the appearance of signs exposing the troop's
locations and actions and different objects and eliminating or weakening such
signs. Simulation is used in creation of dummy targets (disposition areas of
the troops, defenses, positions, lines, etc.). In feints real subunits and
units are deliberately used to create signs of troop movements, concentrations,
combat, and other activities to create a false impression in the enemy's mind
concerning the actions and intentions of the troops and distracting his efforts
to secondary directions.
Disinformation is disseminated to disinform the enemy on composition, combat
capability, actions, and intentions of friendly troops in order to mislead the
enemy and to create advantageous conditions for success in combat.
Concealment, simulation, feints, and disinformation are carried out in
integration. While concealment is employed without any special instructions
from the higher commander, all other forms of maskirovka are utilized
only on instructions from and with the permission of the higher command. When
maskirovka is organized the division commander determines and
specifies the following points:
- aims, tasks, and measures for maskirovka in the division;
- forces and means to be employed, places and times for executing
maskirovka measures;
- individuals who are responsible for the above measures;
- procedures for monitoring maskirovka.
The division staff (operation section) along with the chief of artillery and
rocket troops, chief of engineer troops and the chief of chemical troops
jointly work out the plan of maskirovka measures. The division plan
for maskirovka is prepared on the 1/100,000 or 1/50,000 scale map with
written instructions. In the graphic part of the plan the following are
reflected:
- boundaries, groupings, and missions of the divisions;
- areas for establishing deceptive concentration areas of the troops, command
posts, deceptive movements and time of their preparation (conduct);
- forces and means participating in feints, their composition, area of
deployment, direction, and time of action and mission;
- areas and time for using smoke screens and forces and means employed.
The following points are specified in the written instructions:
- the aim and mission of maskirovka;
- forces and means allocated;
- equipment used in maskirovka;
- methods to conduct different measures;
- responsible commanders.
The written form of the maskirovka plan with a map annex is prepared
in a table form which reflects the following points under different columns:
- measures to be conducted;
- places for carrying out maskirovka measures;
- times for conduct of measures;
- responsible commanders;
- forces and means to be employed;
- reaction to the enemy's different actions regarding maskirovka.
The maskirovka plan is signed by the division chiefs of operations,
artillery, engineer, chemical, and the chief of staff. It is approved by the
division commander. The division staff (operation section) issues the
instructions of the commander to all units regarding maskirovka and
dispatches combat instructions to units and subunits which are assigned to
execute specific measures of maskirovka.
The division staff monitors the execution of maskirovka measures. The
condition of maskirovka is systematically checked by control
surveillance from the ground, air, and sea. Those called to serve in the
monitoring are officers from staffs, combat arms, special troops and services,
and the traffic control (commandant service) services.
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Security
Security is organized to provide the troops the time and conditions
advantageous for development and commitment into action, to protect them from
surprise attack by the enemy, and to prevent enemy's reconnaissance. Security
is provided in defense by combat outposts (combat security), in march by march
security and by security established in concentration areas. Moreover, under
all conditions the troops organize immediate security.
The minimum necessary but a sufficient quantity of forces and means are
assigned to security. In each specific case the composition of security
elements depends on the following:
- the mission of the troops being protected;
- time available to them (required) to deploy and commit to battle;
- importance of the direction (area) of their combat action;
- distance to the enemy and the characteristic of his actions;
- terrain and observation conditions.
When organizing security, the division commander specifies the security tasks,
forces and means, composition, area of responsibility (direction of action),
and from what unit they should be allocated. On the basis of the division
commander's instructions, the staff (operation section) organizes security. It
assigns missions to the troops assigned to security, organizes communications
with them, establishes procedure and the signals for coordination, and
determines the procedure, methods, and deadlines for sending reports.
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Engineer Support
Engineer support is provided to create, for friendly troops, favorable
conditions for the use of combat equipment, maneuver and secrecy of combat
actions, to increase their protection against means of destruction and to
impede combat actions being conducted by enemy troops. The main tasks of
engineer support at the division level are as follows:
- engineer reconnaissance of the enemy and the terrain;
- preparing and maintaining routes for troop movement;
- breaching of obstacles and construction of crossings over water obstacles;
- establishing engineer obstacles and conducting demolition work;
- establishing fortifications;
- conducting maskirovka work;
- extracting and purifying water, constructing and maintaining water supply
points;
- conducting engineer actions for the elimination of the consequences of the
enemy's use of mass-destruction weapons.
Engineer reconnaissance is an integral part of tactical (combined arms)
reconnaissance. The basic methods for conducting engineer reconnaissance are
observation, photography, and direct inspection.
Preparation and maintenance of routes for travel includes the following:
- repairing and restoring existing roads;
- engineer preparation of new roads;
- establishing column paths;
- camouflage of the routes from enemy ground and aerial reconnaissance.
A movement support detachment (OOD) is established in order to prepare the
direction of movement in the regiment and division along each route being used.
Passages are prepared when it is impossible to bypass barriers and obstacles.
Passages are prepared usually for subunits with one passage for each attacking
first-echelon infantry (tank) platoon. In order to pass the troops through the
passage, a traffic control service is organized using forces and means of
engineer subunits. For each passage a traffic control post is assigned composed
of three to four men. A combat engineer detachment directs the traffic control
service at two adjacent passages. Engineer preparation of river crossings
includes the following:
- establishing column paths to the crossing sites from the main travel routes
of the troops;
- mine clearing and removing of obstacles on approaches to water obstacles,
river banks and landing areas (embarkation), disembarkation (unloading) for
landing craft and ferries as well as in the areas of constructing bridges;
- building of slopes into the water and departure for the shore;
- assembling rafts, mounting piers and installing bridges;
- clearing and marking of fords;
- installing anti-mine artificial obstacles in the water at bridge crossings;
- camouflaging crossings;
- constructing shelters for personnel and equipment.
The basic system of artificial obstacles as a component of engineer support
includes mixed mine fields and mainly antitank mine fields. Depending on the
conditions of the terrain, besides mixed mine fields, various non-explosive
antitank and antipersonnel obstacles are prepared such as tree barriers,
abatis, barricades, hedgehogs, knife rests, escarpments, one way tank ditches,
antitank ditches, dragon's teeth, etc.
Destruction of important objectives (bridges, dams, power stations, etc.) is
conducted to impede the enemy's combat action, to inflict losses on him, and to
prevent the use of such objectives when they are seized by the enemy.
Mobile obstacle detachments can be formed in the regiment and in the division
for mine laying and demolition work in the direction of the enemy attack
(counterattack). They are composed of one to two engineer platoons equipped
with mines, mine laying equipment, and explosives.
Fortifications significantly reduce the degree of injury to personnel from the
effects of mass-destruction weapons as follows:
- foxholes, trenches, and cut and cover shelters reduce penetrating radiation
ten fold and decrease the radius of destruction by shock wave 1.5-2 times in
comparison with a position on open terrain;
- covered foxholes and trenches protect the personnel from contamination by
radioactive substances and chemical agents sufficiently liquid to form drops,
from thermal radiation and penetrating radiation;
- shelters and dugouts with special engineer preparations reduce the radius of
destruction to personnel by shock wave three to five fold.
Water is acquired by engineer troops according to a calculation of what would
satisfy the daily troops requirements. Daily requirements include the norms for
consumption of water for the unit and drinking needs of the personnel and for
technical purposes (filling, refilling, and washing of vehicles). The average
daily norm for consumption of water by one serviceman in areas which have
little water or no water in the torrid zones of the earth (such as in Central
Asia and in Africa) amounts to ten liters. During an emergency shortage of
water, the daily norm for water consumption can be reduced to four liters but
for a time period of no more than three days. The norms for consumption of
water for technical purposes are determined by the technical specifications of
the types of vehicles.
Engineer support tasks are executed by personnel from all arms of services.
Engineer troops execute the most complex tasks of engineer support which
require special training of personnel and use of engineer equipment and
explosives. In order to conduct the tasks of engineer support in the division,
some of the engineer troops are used on a centralized basis, according to the
decision of the division commander. Other troops are allocated for the
reinforcement of combined arms units. Engineer subunits being allocated for
reinforcement can be attached to the regiments or execute tasks on their behalf
while remaining subordinate to the division commander.
Engineer support is organized on the basis of the division commander's decision
and instructions for the higher command. The division commander defines the
following points:
- most important tasks of engineer support;
- forces and means employed;
- deadlines for execution of engineer tasks;
- subordinates responsible for their execution and the procedure for monitoring
the work.
Based on the concept of the division commander's decision, his instructions on
engineer support, and instructions from the army's chief of engineer troops,
the chief of division engineer troops organizes the plan of engineer support
for the division. This is done after an all-around clarification of assigned
missions and estimate of the situation.
The plan of engineer support of the division is the principle document
regulating the actions of division's engineer staff. It is considered part of
the division's plan for its combat action. (Engineer planning documents may be
found in Chapter Five). The engineer support plan is prepared on 1/100,000 or
1/50,000 scale map with written instructions. The plan is signed by the chief
of engineer troops and the division chief of staff and it is approved by the
division commander. The graphic part of the plan includes the following:
- principal tasks of engineer support during the preparation of the battle;
- principal tasks of engineer support during the conduct of the battle;
- areas and times of conduct of these missions and engineer troops assigned to
accomplish them;
- areas of deployment of engineer troops in the initial situation (FUP areas)
and their movement during the conduct of the operation;
- organizing support and supply of troops in terms of engineer equipment,
armament and material;
- brief description of enemy forces and means and characteristics of his likely
actions;
- combat formation of the division and regiments in FUP areas, the immediate
and long-range missions of the division, and the immediate and subsequent
missions of the regiments;
- areas of breakthrough (main attack) of the enemy defense (forces);
- line of commitment (counterattack) of the division's second-echelon into
battle;
- command posts of the division in FUP areas and their relocation during the
battle;
- division boundaries and boundaries between regiments;
- likely assault river crossing sites during the conduct of the battle.
In the written instructions of the division's engineer support plan the
following points are reflected:
- combat composition and groupings of the division's engineer troops and
distribution of engineer troops among regiments and elements of combat
formations, and their distribution in terms of combat missions and regroupment
of engineer troops during the battle;
- availability and distribution of engineer armament and equipment in terms of
different missions and among the regiments;
- composition of mobile obstacle detachments, movement support detachments, and
engineer reserves;
- measures on protection of troops against the enemy's use of mass-destruction
weapons.
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Chemical Support
Chemical support consists of a series of measures aimed to create conditions
allowing the troops to accomplish their missions in the face of the enemy's use
of mass-destruction weapons, smoke, and incendiary means. Chemical support
includes the following:
- radiation and chemical reconnaissance;
- bacteriological non-specific reconnaissance;
- chemical and dosimetric monitoring;
- special cleansing;
- use of smoke masks and flamethrowers by chemical troops and other measures.
Radiation and chemical reconnaissance is conducted to provide the division
commander and staff with information on the radiation and chemical situation on
the terrain and in the surface layer of the atmosphere. The boundaries of
contaminated zones are marked and detours are defined or routes through which
the troops will be exposed to the lowest radiation are determined. Radiation
and chemical reconnaissance is conducted by radiation and chemical
reconnaissance subunits by observation and direct survey of the areas occupied
by the troops and on their movement routes.
Bacteriological non-specific reconnaissance (monitoring) is carried out for the
purpose of promptly detecting the enemy's use of bacteriological agents and
providing the division commander and staff with information by which to
estimate the bacteriological (biological) situation. It can determine whether
or not the enemy has used bacteriological agents, define the boundaries of
contaminated areas, and take samples for analysis. It is carried out by all
observers, observation posts chiefly of those forces and means given the
mission of radiation and chemical reconnaissance.
Chemical and domestic monitoring is conducted to obtain data by which to
evaluate the combat capability of units and subunits and to determine the
volume of special cleansing required. Chemical monitoring includes preliminary
study of the air, water, and soil samples for the purpose of establishing the
need for analyzing them further and qualitative and quantitative analysis of
such samples in order to determine the form and type of war gas and the density
of contamination.
Dosimetric monitoring includes monitoring exposure of personnel to radiation
and monitoring radioactive contamination of weapons, equipment, fuel, water,
and other material means.
Special cleansing (obrabotka) is conducted to preserve the combat
capability of troops contaminated by toxic agents, radioactive substances, and
bacterial agents to reduce the probability of personnel injury and to allow
them to operate without protective equipment. It includes gas and radioactive
decontamination and disinfection of armament, equipment, and material and when
necessary, sanitary cleansing of personnel.
Special cleansing may be partial or complete. In partial special cleansing
personnel do not interrupt conduct of their combat missions. They use
individual anti-chemical packets and available resources to remove toxic
agents, radioactive substances, and bacterial agents from exposed skin,
protective equipment, clothing, and weapons surfaces. Complete special
cleansing is carried out with the permission of the senior commander after the
accomplishment of the combat mission. In this type of cleansing all surfaces of
weapons and equipment are subjected to gas decontamination and radioactive
decontamination. The personnel undergo personal cleansing including washing
with warm water. They must also change their underwear and sometimes their
outer clothing as well.
Smoke screens are used by chemical troops to blind the enemy, to conceal
friendly troops, simulate the activities of dummy targets, and to protect
troops against light radiation from a nuclear burst. The chemical troops lay
smoke screens in integration with other concealment measures.
All measures of chemical support must always be coordinated with measures to
protect troops against mass-destruction weapons. Chemical support is organized
by the chief of the division's chemical troops in close coordination with the
division staff. Chemical support is organized on the basis of the division
commander's decision, his instructions on chemical support, and instructions of
the army's chief of chemical troops.
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Technical Support
Technical support consists of the following series of measures:
- to promptly supply the troops with armament and equipment;
- to provide ammunition and military technical equipment;
- to maintain weapons and equipment in constant readiness for combat use;
- to insure high effectiveness and trouble-free operation of the equipment in
all situations;
- to restore damaged weapons and equipment.
Technical support is subdivided into the following categories:
- artillery-technical support;
- motor vehicle-technical support;
- tank-technical support;
- chemical-technical support;
- signal-technical support;
- rear-service technical support.
The principle measures of technical support include the following:
1. providing armament and equipment to the troops: planned and conducted by the
deputy commander for technical affairs and armament of the division;
2. supplying ammunition and military technical material:
--- reserves of ammunition and technical material (spare parts, etc.) are
planned by related arms and services and held by personnel, combat vehicles,
armament, transportation of subunits (battalions) units (regiments) and
division material support battalion;
3. insuring technically correct operation of armament and equipment:
--- includes their preparation for use, their use, technical maintenance,
transportation, and storage. This is conducted by specially trained personnel
of units such as drivers, driver-mechanics (tank drivers), and crews and teams
with the help of specialists as required when preparing equipment for combat
use or during their technical maintenance, transportation, and storage.
4. timely evacuation and repair of weapons and equipment: evacuation of damaged
armament and equipment is conducted, as a rule, on the instructions and with
the resources of the higher level. Evacuation includes towing, transporting, or
leading incapacitated items of armament and equipment to the nearest shelters,
to evacuation routes and to repair or loading points. It also includes loading
the equipment onto transportation vehicles, extricating stuck, buried, and
sunken items and systems and righting upset equipment plus the necessary
preparatory work. Armament and equipment are evacuated chiefly from areas under
enemy fire, from areas where it may be captured by the enemy and from areas of
fire, floods, or contamination. The importance of the given items to combat and
the volume of the repair jobs are accounted for when determining the priority
of evacuation: command and combat vehicles, rocket launchers and armament and
equipment requiring the least volume of repair are evacuated on first priority.
Depending upon the specific situation, the location of the defective weapon or
vehicle, and its technical condition a specific evacuation procedure is
determined.
The operating procedures are set by the division commander and his deputy for
technical affairs and armament in accordance with the mission, the condition of
the situation, and the instructions from the army commander.
Technical servicing of the equipment consists of checking for the proper
functioning of assemblies, mechanisms, and devices, and topping off of vehicles
with fuel, lubricants, and special fluids. Technical servicing of armored and
motor vehicles is performed in accordance with the rules established by
technical use. The basic indicator in this process is vehicles' mileage. The
following types of technical servicing have been established for tanks,
depending on the number of kilometers covered:
- a general inspection;
- technical servicing no. 1;
- technical servicing no. 2;
- technical servicing no. 3.
General servicing is conducted before taking the vehicle out of the motor pool.
It is conducted in fifteen to thirty minutes. During short halts of a march ten
to fifteen minutes are spent conducting general servicing.
Technical servicing no. 1 is conducted each time a vehicle is returned to the
motor pool, after a march is completed, and during breaks between two battles
regardless of the distance covered.
Technical service no. 2 for medium tanks is conducted usually after the vehicle
has run 1,000-1,100 km with a period of 6.5-9.5 hours being spent. Technical
service no. 3 is conducted after the vehicle has run 2,000-2,200 km with a
period of 8-12 hours being spent. Servicing numbers 2 and 3 include a careful
check-up of the technical condition of the vehicle, its performing adjustments,
and topping off or replacing of oils and lubricants in the assemblies and units
of vehicles.
The following types of technical servicing have been established for motor
vehicles:
General inspection before taking the vehicle out, conducted in 15-20 min.,
general inspection en route (short halts in march) takes 10-15 min.
Daily technical servicing conducted after each time the vehicle is brought back
to the motor pool regardless of the distance covered or after the vehicle has
run 100-150 km. A period of 1-1.5 hours is devoted to daily servicing.
Technical servicing no. 1 is performed usually after the vehicle has run
1,000-1,200 km. It takes up to three hours to conduct the service.
Technical service no. 2 is conducted after the vehicle has run 5,000-6,000 km.
The service takes eight hours.
On the basis of instructions from the division commander and his deputy for
technical affairs and armament, technical servicing in units and subunits is
directly organized by artillery armament, motor and tractor service, armor
service, and related chiefs of arms and services for engineer equipment, signal
equipment, technical equipment, mechanical assemblies, mobile field bakery, and
other various equipment.
Evacuation is conducted in the following priority sequence. First, all
armaments and vehicles with minor damage are evacuated away from enemy fire.
Second, weapons and vehicles, which can be repaired by the repair facilities of
the regiments and the division are evacuated. Third, the remaining equipment is
moved. Evacuation of the damaged equipment is conducted in those cases when it
is impossible to repair them at the place where they have broken down.
Repair of armament and equipment is conducted in order to maintain and restore
the serviceability, performance, and life of equipment and their parts. In a
combat situation repairs are made, for the most part, where the armament and
equipment break down or in the nearest cover, as well as in deployment areas of
repair units and subunits and at disabled vehicle collecting points.
The fundamental principle in organizing repair is bringing the repair
facilities as close as possible to the equipment being repaired and to first
repair that equipment which requires the least amount of time to have it
operational again. The following types of repair have been established
depending on the nature and degree of damage, and of labor intensiveness of
repair work:
- routine (current) repair;
- medium repair;
- major repair.
The routine (current) repairs entail eliminating faults by replacing or
restoring individual parts of damaged equipment and systems and making
adjustments. They are carried out by operating personnel and repair subunits
organic to the unit and sometimes in the division workshop. Medium repairs
consist of restoring and operating characteristics of items and systems by
replacing or repairing damaged parts and mandatorily checking out the technical
conditions of other parts. It also includes correcting faults in them. Medium
repair is conducted by divisional repair workshops and army facilities on
finished assemblies. Major repairs entail major overhaul and are conducted, as
a rule, at the front and area plants.
No matter what the conditions, the repair volume must insure the possibility of
the quickest and safest use of restored armament and equipment in carrying out
assigned missions. The principles of determining the priority of repairs are
similar in many ways to the principles of evacuation priority discussed above.
Armament and equipment that is ready for use is returned, normally, to its
units or subunits, or it is sent by order of the commander to units and
subunits undergoing recovery of their combat capability.
Troop control of the technical support resources is an inherent part of troop
control. Such support is managed personally by the division commander as well
as through his staff, his deputy for technical affairs and armament, his deputy
for rear service, and chiefs of combat arms, special troops, and services. They
organize the technical support on the basis of the division commander's
decision, his instructions on technical support, and instructions of
corresponding chiefs at a higher level on technical support.
Control of technical support is conducted from the division control points and
technical observation points. General communication channels are used to
resolve technical issues, but a technical support radio net may be created as
well. Technical support is provided in close interaction with rear service
support. Coordinated leadership of technical and rear service support by
control organs is one of the most important prerequisites for achieving success
in assigned missions.
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Rear Service Support
Rear service support is the collection of a series of measures by which the
troops are provided with all forms of material means required to maintain their
combat capability and to create favorable conditions for successful
accomplishment of missions. Rear service support includes the following:
- material support;
- medical support;
- transportation;
- providing personnel and other needs of the troops.
Material support is conducted in order to promptly and completely satisfy the
needs of units and subunits for material. It includes acquiring and storing
material, delivering it to combined arms units and subunits, units of combat
arms, special troops, and services, making consumers aware of the authorized
norms and creating the necessary reserves. Material support is provided
centrally, in accordance with the plans and instructions of the division
commander who bears the responsibility for uninterrupted supply of material to
subordinate units and subunits. Material includes the following:
- all forms of armament;
- combat and other equipment;
- ammunition;
- fuel;
- food;
- protective means;
- engineer means;
- clothing;
- medical and other material;
- various types of merchandise;
- fluids and water.
Medical support is provided in order to accomplish the following:
- maintain combat capability and improve personnel's health;
- render prompt medical assistance to casualties and patients;
- return personnel to action as quickly as possible.
Medical support in combat includes conducting treatment, evacuation, sanitary,
hygienic, and anti-epidemic measures and medical measures aimed at protecting
the troops against the enemy's mass-destruction weapons. Organization of the
rear service support of the division includes the following:
- preparing the rear service units, subunits, and installations;
- making the decision on rear area support;
- designating the rear service area;
- deploying the rear service units, subunits, and installations and their
relocation during the battle;
- designating supply and evacuation routes;
- providing security, defense, and protection of the rear area.
Preparation of the rear service to support the troops is organized by the
deputy division commander for rear service and chiefs of services of the
division. It is performed directly by the commanders (officers) of the rear
service units and subunits on the basis of orders and instructions from the
division commander and his deputy for rear services.
A rear service area is assigned to the division in offensive and defensive
combat for deployment and operation of rear service units, subunits, and
installations; and for efficient use of roads, local resources, and water
resources. This area is limited on the right and left by division boundary
lines and at the rear by a boundary with the army rear area. The dimensions of
the area can vary. The total depth of the division rear area in offensive
battle reaches forty kilometers and in defense up to sixty kilometers.
Divisional rear area may not be assigned during the attack on the move and when
there are no adjacents, as well as while conducting combat actions in deserts
and mountains. In this case the division assigns only areas for deployment of
the rear service units. In defense, the division rear area is usually
subdivided into regiment rear areas and a divisional rear area. The regiment
rear areas are assigned only to the first-echelon regiments. In the offensive,
combat regiment rear areas, as a rule, are not assigned. Deployment of the
division rear service units and subunits is conducted as follows:
- medical and repair units (subunits) are deployed close to first-echelon
regiments (first-echelon of the rear service);
- depots, transportation units (subunits), and mechanical field bakery are
deployed in the second-echelon in depth.
The following routes are established in the division rear areas:
- a divisional supply and evacuation route from divisional supply depots
(material support battalion) to regiment dumps (material support companies) and
fire positions of division artillery group;
- a regimental supply and evacuation route from regiment material support
company (depots) to the rear service subunits of battalions and the fire
positions of regiment artillery group;
- a lateral route on the line of regiment dumps, which is the divisional
lateral route;
- a lateral route on the line of division depots (material support battalion)
which is army's lateral route.
Relocation of rear service units and subunits depends on the combat mission and
the nature of combat action. Priority is given first to all medical aid posts,
armored repair workshops, and transport with ammunition and POL. To conduct the
rear service support the following elements are employed:
- in battalion: battalion's supply platoon;
- in regiment: material support company and medical company;
- in the division: material support battalion, medical battalion, and
mechanical bakery.
Control of the rear service provides for:
- maintaining constant readiness of the rear service to support the troops;
- promptly assigning missions regarding the rear service support;
- planning the organization of the rear service support;
- monitoring the execution of instructions on rear service support;
- maneuvering with transport, material means, repair, and medical means in
accordance with the changes in the situation;
- organizing reliable security, defense, and protection of the rear service
area.
The division commander directs rear service support through his staff, his
deputy for rear service, his deputy for technical affairs and armament, and
chiefs of combat arms, special troops and services.
The rear service support plan is a part of the division plan for the battle.
The plan should be concise and clear. The contents of rear service support plan
include all matters concerning rear service support of the troops handled by
the deputy division commander for rear services and service chiefs. The plan
also includes issues of supplying the troops with ammunition and technical
equipment since the deputy division commander for rear service is responsible
for their timely supply. The supply of the troops with rockets and their
movement by specialized transportation means, technical support, motor and
tractor, and other equipment support are reflected in other plans prepared by
the chiefs of division's services who are not subordinate to the deputy
division commander for rear services. The initial data for preparing the plan
of rear service support are the following:
- the rear service order of the army commander;
- the decision of the division commander for the battle and his instructions on
rear service support;
- the decision of the deputy division commander for rear service on
organization of the rear service support;
- information on the size, number, composition, and status of the troops;
- information about the composition, deployment, status, and location of the
rear services of the troops.
The division's rear service support plan normally reflects the following:
- the principle missions of the division's rear service;
- the composition of division's rear service including its units, subunits, and
installations planned to support the combat action of the division;
- the deployment of the division's rear service during the preparation of the
battle and their relocation and movement during the conduct of the battle;
- division's supply and evacuation routes, their extension, restoration, and
maintenance during the conduct of the battle;
- material support of the division during the battle;
- medical support of the division troops;
- protection, security, and defense of the division rear service area;
- organizing control of the division's rear service;
- other matters.
The plan is prepared on a 1/50,000 or 1/100,000 scale map with written
instructions, or it can be prepared in written form with a map annex. The plan
is signed by the deputy division commander for rear service and his chief of
staff. It is coordinated with the division's chief of staff and approved by the
division commander.
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Actions of the Army Staff and Troop Control Organs on
Organizing Combat Support for the Army Forces
The army staff and troop control organs during organization of combat support
for army forces designate missions on various types of combat support, and
forces and means to accomplish them. They issue combat orders and instructions
on combat support to the subordinates and organize interaction between the
designated forces. The army staff in the offensive operation organizes the
following combat support:
- reconnaissance;
- operational maskirovka;
- defense of forces and rear targets against enemy mass-destruction weapons,
restoring combat effectiveness, and liquidation of the results of the enemy's
nuclear strikes;
- radio-electronic combat;
- topogeodetic, topographic, and hydrometeorological support;
The chiefs of engineer and chemical troops and chief of rear services organize
their combat support. The combat support of army forces is organized on the
basis of the army commander's decision and his instructions on combat support.
The measures for combat support are conducted under the direct guidance of the
chief of staff. The army chief of staff, in compliance with the army
commander's decision and his instructions, gives orders to the chiefs of staff
and chiefs of arms and services on the organization, planning, and conduct of
combat support measures.
He organizes the actions of the army staff with the other staffs of the arms
and services. He coordinates the actions on combat support of the forces. In
the army staff the planning and organization is done on the following combat
support.
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Organizing Reconnaissance
The chief of reconnaissance prepares the reconnaissance plan in written form on
graphic paper with written explanatory notes and an annex map or in a graphical
way on the map with explanatory notes as an annex. In accordance with this plan
the divisions and chiefs of arms and services give their orders on
reconnaissance. The army reconnaissance units receive their missions directly
from the chief of reconnaissance. The most important measure on reconnaissance
is the collection of data, its clarification and analysis, and issuing
reconnaissance data to the relevant staffs and chiefs. (See Chapter Five for
samples of reconnaissance documents).
The chief of the operations directorate organizes and plans the following
combat support measures:
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Organizing Protection Against Enemy Mass Weapons
This mission is conducted on the basis of the orders of the army chief of staff
by the operations directorate together with the chief of chemical troops and
they distribute data on the chemical, bacteriological, and radiation situation
to everyone. The operations directorate warns the forces and staffs and
neighbors on ground and air bursts, assembles hydrological - meteorological
data and also issues it to the subordinates and staffs. The chief of the
operations directorate, in close work with the chief of chemical troops,
organizes the plan for defense of forces and rear targets in interaction with
the chief of staffs, combat arms, and special troops. Measures for protection
are shown also on the operational plan, plans for combat actions of the arms,
plan for combat support, and rear service plan. The operations directorate
organizes the preparation of orders on the protection of forces and rear
targets and the chief of staff and chief of operations directorate and chief of
chemical troops all sign it and then send it to the subordinates.
Restoring the army forces' combat effectiveness and elimination of the results
of enemy use of nuclear strikes during the preparation phase and course of the
operation: The basis for restoring the army forces' combat effectiveness and
elimination of results of nuclear strikes is designated by the front
staff during operational planning. In support of this aim the composition,
location of deployment, and possible missions of the special combined
detachment for liquidation of results are designated. At the moment the enemy
uses nuclear strikes and their results are determined this detachment moves
into action. Sometimes control of the restoration of combat effectiveness of
forces and rear targets with participation of the arms and special forces is
given to a special operational group under command of the army deputy commander
or the chief of staff. In the interest of restoration of combat effectiveness
of forces and liquidation of results of mass-destruction weapons they prepare a
separate plan and put it into action.
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Organizing Maskirovka
The operational maskirovka of the army typically is organized and
planned on the basis of the orders of the front staff and orders of
the army commander and chief of staff. It is organized and planned by the
operations directorate. For preparation of the plan on operational
maskirovka the chief of staff, the chiefs of combat arms, and special
troops personally participate, especially the chiefs of engineers, chemical
troops, and radio-electronic combat; and the chief of staff of the rear
services also participates. Must say that the basic organizer of operational
maskirovka is the front staff. The army usually conducts the
measures that are ordered in the front operational maskirovka
plan. The army only carries out and fulfills the front plan by
elaborating on individual measures.
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Organizing Radio-Electronic Combat
The organization and planning of radio-electronic combat is conducted on the
basis of the army commander's decision and his instructions on radio-electronic
combat and the instructions of the front staff on this. The army
commander designates the basic missions on organization of radio-electronic
combat. The chief of staff is the main organizer of radio-electronic combat. He
accomplishes this mission in interaction with the army staff, chiefs of combat
arms, and special troops and especially with the chief of radio-electronic
combat. The army chief of staff in detail evaluates the radio-electronic
situation in interaction with the staff and all chiefs who use radio-electronic
means. He designates the most important enemy control systems, especially the
nuclear weapons control, air forces, PVO forces, ground forces, and the enemy's
radio-electronic warfare systems. In accordance with this for organizing
radio-electronic combat, protection of electronics, and maskirovka
they issue orders to the chiefs of radio-electronic combat and other chiefs
such as the chief of rocket troops and artillery, chief of reconnaissance,
chief of engineers, chief of chemical troops, chief of operations directorate
and chief of signals and others. The chief of radio-electronic combat in
interaction with the above named chiefs organizes the plan for radio-electronic
combat and issues the instructions on REC and controls its actions. This plan
is signed by the chief of REC, chief of staff, and approved by the army
commander.
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Organizing Engineer Support
The organization of engineer support is conducted on the basis of the army
commander's decision and his instructions on engineer support and the
instructions from the front staff on engineer matters by the chief of
army engineer troops. The chief of engineer troops with his staff on the basis
of the aim of the army commander's decision and his instructions on engineer
support designates the most important missions for engineer support and
designates the forces and means of engineer troops with the aim of fulfilling
these missions during the preparation phase and course of the operation. The
engineer support plan with explanatory notes and annexes is prepared on the
basis of this plan. They send the instructions on engineers to the large units
and units of engineer troops and also the instructions on engineer matters to
the staffs of subordinate motor rifle and tank large units. The engineer
support plan is signed by the chief of engineer troops and chief of staff and
approved by the army commander. (Sample engineer planning documents are shown
in Chapter Five).
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Organizing Rear Services Support
Rear service support in the offensive operation is conducted on the basis of
the directive for rear services of the front chief of rear services,
decision of the army commander, decision of the deputy army commander for rear
services, data on the supply of material means, and composition and
capabilities of army rear services. The rear service support is one of the most
important operational support measures. It includes organization of rear,
preparation and use of road communication routes and transport means, material
supply support, technical support, medical support, and other support. Rear
service support of the army is conducted by the chief of rear and his staff,
the chiefs of combat arms, special troops, and services who are directly
subordinate to the commander such as the chief of armaments and technical
services (rocket and artillery armament, armor and automobile vehicle service),
chief of engineers, and chief of chemical troops. The chief of rear services on
the basis of the front operational directive on rear, army commander's
decision, supply of material means, capabilities of army rear services, and all
round assessment of the situation makes a decision on rear service support. He
prepares the plan for rear service support, operational directive and
instructions on rear services issued to the large units, units, and
installations of rear services, and also issues orders on rear services to the
large units and units of combat arms and special services. The rear service
plan is signed by the chief of staff of rear, the chief of rear, and chief of
staff of the army and is approved by the army commander.
The army chief of staff correctly and in a timely manner monitors compliance
with the instructions that the army commander sent on combat support. He
organizes the mutual distribution of information on the organization of
all-around support of forces' combat actions and in a timely manner gives
assistance to the subordinate staffs.
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Procedure to Organize Support of Combat Action
Combat support measures conducted to aid the combat actions of the troops is
one of the main factors in achieving a successful operation. Therefore, these
measures must be thoroughly considered and organized in advance.
Types of combat support measures include the following:
- reconnaissance;
- operational "maskirovka;"
- protection of rear service troops and targets (installations), from
mass-destruction weapons;
- engineer support;
- radio-electronic support;
- chemical support;
- hydro-meteorologic support;
- topogeodetic support;
- rear service support.
Combat support measures for the front offensive operation are
organized on the basis of the front commander's decision and his
instructions. Actions relating to combat support measures are organized
directly under the supervision and leadership of the chief of staff.
The front staff organizes the following:
- reconnaissance;
- protection of troops and rear service installations from mass-destruction
weapons;
- radio-electronic combat;
- hydro-meteorologic and topogeodetic support.
The related chiefs of special troops and services organize and conduct other
types of conduct supporting measures. The chief of staff of the front
works out a plan and gives instructions to the troops for each type of combat
support measure.
Staff actions on organization of measures in support of troop combat operations
not only cover the specification of the tasks related to different types of
support but also include the designation of troops and means to accomplish
these tasks, the assignment of missions to the elements which accomplish them
and the organization of coordination among them.
The chief of staff issues necessary instructions to the relevant directorate
chiefs on preparing plans and instructions about support measures. He
coordinates the actions of the staff with those of combat arms, special troops,
and services staffs in the area of required support of troop combat operations.
In the front staff the chief of the reconnaissance directorate
organizes reconnaissance while the chief of operations is involved in
organization of plans and instructions on protection against mass-destruction
weapons, operational concealment (maskirovka), and
hydro-meteorological support. The chief of the radio-electronic warfare section
prepares instructions and plans about radio-electronic warfare and the chief of
the topographic section organizes instructions on topogeodetic support.
The reconnaissance plan is prepared in written form with a map annex or in a
graphic form with an annex of written instructions. According to the plan,
instructions on reconnaissance are issued to the armies and the chiefs of
combat arms, special troops, and services. Instructions to front
reconnaissance troops are given personally by the chief of the reconnaissance
directorate. The most important elements in the organization of reconnaissance
are the collection, analysis and reporting of reconnaissance information and
the dissemination of information to relevant persons.
Based on the instructions of the chief of staff, the operations directorate
along with the chief of the chemical directorate disseminates information on
the radiation, chemical and bacteriological situation. The operations
directorate establishes the system to warn the troops, headquarters and
adjacents about ground and air contamination. It also acquires information on
hydro-meteorology and informs subordinate units about the hydro-meteorological
situation. The operations directorate along with the chief of the chemical
directorate, in close cooperation with the chiefs of combat and combat support
arms and services, organizes the plan of troop protection and the protection
measures against mass-destruction weapons. Such measures are also included in
the plan of operations, the plans for the employment of combat arms and
services, the plan of supporting measures of combat operations and the
logistics (rear services) plan. The operations directorate writes the
instructions on troop protection against mass-destruction weapons and has them
signed by the chief of staff before it sends them to the subordinate units.
Operational concealment (maskirovka) is organized and implemented by
the front staff in accordance with the commander's decision and the
instructions of the general staff. The chief of staff personally participates
in organizing operational concealment. The chief of operations, the chiefs of
combat and combat support arms, the chief of staff of the air army and the
chief of staff of the logistic directorate may be called on to take part.
The front commander specifies the basic tasks on organization and the
area of concentration of the main efforts of radio-electronic warfare. The
chief of staff thoroughly evaluates the enemy's command and control system,
estimates the radio-electronic situation, determines the strong and weak points
in the enemy's radio-electronic system as well as the radio- electronic tasks
to be accomplished. The chief of staff gives instructions to the chief of the
radio-electronic department, the chief of staff of the air army, the chiefs of
combat and combat support arms on organization and execution of
radio-electronic warfare. He also instructs the chief of signals on protection
of friendly radio-electronic means against the enemy's radio-electronic
warfare. The chief of radio-electronic warfare, in close cooperation with the
above mentioned officers, prepares the plan and instructions on
radio-electronic warfare and controls their implementation.
Engineer and chemical support of the combat operation is organized by the
chiefs of engineers and chemical while all types of rear services support are
planned and conducted by the deputy front commander for rear services.
The chief of staff in a close and timely manner controls the implementation of
the commander's instructions on support of combat operations. He also organizes
interaction and mutual information flow related to the organization of
all-around support of combat operations.
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Types of Support
There are three methods of support by one unit for another. These are: (1)
attachment; (2) direct support; and (3) support.
Attachment
Attachment, or under command, is the closest form of support. The attached unit
comes under the direct command of the unit to which it is assigned and is
treated like an organic unit. The senior commander has full choice on how to
utilize this unit. When a unit is attached, its commander reports to the senior
commander on the situation and capabilities of the unit. The unit is moved
according to the orders of the senior commander. Sometimes (usually not in the
operations order itself but in the coordination instructions) the units are
listed telling when they will be detached and moved to other units. This is
especially true for the commitment of the second-echelon unit. At that time a
number of supporting units will be detached from a first-echelon unit and moved
into the second-echelon with the time and place of the attachment clearly
spelled out. As the second-echelon unit approaches the line of commitment it
receives its new attachments. When a unit is in defense and a counterattack is
planned, the coordination instructions will mention which units are to be
attached. unit that is attached still receives its rear service support from
the parent unit, but the responsibility for supplies rests with the unit to
which it is attached.
An attached unit can include artillery, tanks, engineers, signal, chemical,
antitank, antiaircraft, etc. A division could have 4 or 5 or more artillery
battalions attached from army, while a regiment in the main attack will have 2
to 3 artillery battalions attached. The headquarters of a division or army
artillery regiment may also be attached to form a headquarters for the
regimental artillery group. The regimental chief of artillery is responsible
for all artillery fire in the regiment command therefore disqualifying him as a
commander for a regimental artillery group (RAG). The RAG is then commanded by
either of the battalion commanders or a Aheadquarters brought in for the
purpose.
Attachment is terminated only by the higher commander who ordered it. There are
certain phase lines at which changes are usual. These include when units pass
to exploitation and pursuit and when first-echelon units revert to reserve or
second-echelon. During the opening phase of a meeting engagement, the advance
guard has attached artillery. When the engagement develops into an attack and
an artillery headquarters is established to control fire, this artillery
reverts to support. During a retreat the artillery is attached until a new
defensive line is established.
Direct Support
Direct support is usually established at a lower echelon than attachment. For
instance, when one or two tank companies are attached to a rifle battalion a
tank company or tank platoons can be placed in direct support of rifle
companies and not attached. That way the battalion commander retains control of
the tank missions. When a tank company is in direct support of a rifle company,
the main decision is made by the rifle company commander, with the tank company
commander supporting him. The tank company also receives its own missions,
which must be coordinated with the rifle company. The tank company may receive
changed missions at any time.
Support
Support is the least confined form and is used more for artillery units. For
instance, out of the regimental artillery group one battalion will be in
support of a first-echelon rifle battalion. The artillery battalion commander
receives his missions from the artillery group commander for fire direction.
The supported rifle battalion can request additional tasks and, if the missions
of the artillery permit it, they will support. Placing the artillery battalion
in support of a specific infantry or tank unit facilitates coordination because
the regimental artillery group cannot coordinate the fire support. The rifle
battalion can go directly to its supporting artillery battalion. The artillery
battalion in support usually sets up its command post close to the command post
of the supported unit. During the artillery preparatory fire the artillery
battalion is tied to the total plan with specific tasks. During this time the
infantry and tanks are moving forward. After the attack commences, the
supporting artillery is free to give more support on call. When an artillery
subunit is in support of a tank or infantry unit, the artillery commander
reports to the other commander on his capabilities, location, status, and his
missions from the artillery group.
During the attack there are three phases for artillery: (1) preparatory fire;
(2) supporting fire; and (3) accompanying fire. Most support for particular
rifle units comes in phase 2 and 3. During the second phase, until the regiment
accomplishes its immediate missions, the artillery does not usually have to
displace. When the attack moves into the enemy depth, beyond the range for
support, then the artillery will move by bounds and relocate to accompany the
infantry or tanks. Being in support means to provide adequate fire during the
development of a mission.
At the battalion level a battery of artillery may support one company. The
battery commander is then in direct communication with the company commander.
The artillery battery commander sets up his own observation post from which he
directs the battery fire.
In an advance guard situation the units of artillery or tanks will be attached
to infantry rather than in support. Also in pursuit and movement to contact or
whenever the infantry unit has an independent mission it is better to attach
the supporting units. For instance, when the infantry is an enveloping force in
the mountains or desert, the artillery will be attached.
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Reserves
There are several reserves including the antitank reserve and the mobile
obstacle detachment. There are special reserves such as engineer, signal, and
chemical.
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