Accession Number:

ADA279373

Title:

Operational Deception: Historical Retrospect and Future Utility

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.

Corporate Author:

NAVAL WAR COLL NEWPORT RI DEPT OF OPERATIONS

Personal Author(s):

• Scorby, Jr, John C.

Report Date:

1994-02-08

Pagination or Media Count:

45.0

Abstract:

The purpose of this discourse is to prove the significant advantages that deception operations will provide in any future conflict. The potential use of deception as a force multiplier, renders its understanding by the operational commander as imperative. This understanding is critical as deception used incorrectly can have grave consequences. The proper use of deception and the resultant effects on the principles of war provide the operational commander with distinct advantages. Through historical analysis of two World War II deception operations, lessons can be derived as a result of both the failures as well as the successes of these operations. These lessons are intended to span the ages of time so as not to limit there future utility. Deception is not intended to be a substitute for sound operational planning but rather as another tool for the operational commander to utilize. With the advent of technology, the ability to deceive in the future comes into question. Will this ability be enhanced or will it be thwarted In the final analysis, to forgo this inexpensive multiplier or to utilize it incorrectly is to invite disaster and the unnecessary loss of life. Operational deception, Benefits, Historical use.

Descriptors:

• *HISTORY
• *DECEPTION
• MILITARY HISTORY
• TOOLS
• FAILURE
• OPERATION
• SUBSTITUTES
• BENEFITS
• MILITARY COMMANDERS
• CONFLICT
• SOUND
• TIME
• PLANNING

Subject Categories:

• Humanities and History
• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics
• Countermeasures

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE