Application of Airland Battle Doctrine to Small Unit Tactics

This study is an analysis of how to apply the fundamentals of AirLand Battle doctrine to the tactics of company and platoon level maneuver units. The fundamental tenets and imperatives of AirLand Battle doctrine described in FM 100-5, Operations, are the basis for the development of U.S. Army tactical doctrine for all types of units at all echelons. The mechanized infantry company team is used as a representative U.S. Army unit and the German Army's 1917-1944 experience is used as a source for historical lessons learned. During this period, the German Army constantly updated tactical doctrine and implemented new organizations and equipment to produce an extremely high degree of combat effectiveness. The study concludes that, to be effective, tactical doctrine should be based on sound, time-tested fundamental principles and historical experience applied to modern conditions. Doctrine should be presented as guidance to prepare for combat and not as an inflexible formula which inhibits innovation and creativity. Doctrinal fundamentals must be thoroughly and uniformly understood and small units and soldiers must be capable of executing them. This can be accomplished by thorough training of units and leaders at all levels in doctrinal fundamentals and the dynamics of small unit training and operations.