Accession Number:

ADA279632

Title:

Operational Deception and the Principles of War

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.

Corporate Author:

NAVAL WAR COLL NEWPORT RI DEPT OF OPERATIONS

Personal Author(s):

• Womack, George G.

Report Date:

1994-02-08

Pagination or Media Count:

35.0

Abstract:

Deception has proved its significance repeatedly throughout military history. Its utility as a force multiplier is universally accepted among military practitioners. Considering the recent force reductions caused by Post Cold War economic realities and an expanding national aversion to combat casualties, increased focus on operational deception OPDEC is warranted. This paper focuses on contemporary OPDEC planning considerations and examines their relevance from a historical perspective. Additionally, it will assess OPDECs contribution to selected principles of war from a theoretical viewpoint. Finally, conclusions will be drawn as to the future value of OPDEC to the operational commander.

Descriptors:

• *WARFARE
• *DECEPTION
• MILITARY HISTORY
• ECONOMICS
• REDUCTION
• PLANNING
• COLD WAR
• HISTORY
• CASUALTIES
• VALUE

Subject Categories:

• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE