Light Infantry and the Heavy Force

<p>This study examines the utility of augmenting heavy forces committed in the forward defense of Central Europe with strategically mobile light forces. The study examines the historical precedents for the employment of light infantry forces against technologically superior heavy forces. Drawing from these experiences the study identifies the methods tactics and techniques that were common to light infantry operations that were successful in the past. The study then assesses the utility and survivability of light infantry forces on the contemporary battlefield and examines the degree to which the successful operating styles of the past remain valid. The study also examines various ways light infantry forces can be employed by heavy forces and the tactics they can use to successfully counter armored/mechanized formations. The study concludes with the assessment that light infantry forces when committed in the right situations and with a requisite degree of skill can greatly magnify the combat capability of heavy forces defending in Central Europe.</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p>