An analysis of light infantry effectiveness in mid-to-high intensity conflict deliberate attack missions

Abstract

This thesis documents a simulation study of light infantry operations in mid-to-high intensity conflict. An initial data analysis is performed using deliberate attack missions conducted at tile U.S. Army National Training Center (NTC) and compares the measures of effectiveness (MOE) of fully modernized heavy forces to the effectiveness of heavy forces operating with an attached light infantry battalion. This analysis includes development of a light infantry attack simulation which employed object oriented programming in MODSIM II. The simulation models light infantry operations in the NTC environment and is used to explore alternative tactical employment techniques designed to enhance unit performance on the AirLand Battlefield. This thesis also describes the tank and mechanized infantry task force. The light infantry task force, the heavy/light rotation concept, the deliberate attack mission, and the NTC environment and data collection capabilities. The simulation models an infantry attack against opposing forces in fixed, fortified positions. The model is a high resolution simulation which builds object code from infantry platoon level through battalion. The simulation depicts unit movements, attrition to indirect fires, and target engagements. The positioning of enemy forces is extracted from actual battlefield positions during an NTC deliberate attack mission. The simulation replicates close operations in which the light force mission is to gain an initial penetration of enemy barriers and pass the heavy force forward to continue the attack. The simulation study explores the use of light forces in alternative tactical scenarios.