Accession Number:

ADA289171

Title:

Passage of Lines: Inhibitor or Facilitator to Maneuver?

Descriptive Note:

Monograph rept.,

Corporate Author:

ARMY COMMAND AND GENERAL STAFF COLL FORT LEAVENWORTH KS SCHOOL OF ADVANCED MIL ITARY STUDIES

Personal Author(s):

• Grimsley, William F.

Report Date:

1993-12-17

Pagination or Media Count:

58.0

Abstract:

Recent operations have demonstrated that units executing rapid yet protracted operations continue to experience significant problems in maintaining tempo. Whether attacking or defending, forces are likely to execute a passage of lines. This is particularly true in fluid and extended operations where the opportunity for extensive planning on a set-piece battlefield may not be the prevalent condition. With the publishing of FM 100-5 June 93 and its emphasis on contingency operations in a joint and combined environment, the requirement for simplified and executable passages of lines according to an established system needs to be explored. This study examines the theoretical and doctrinal background of the importance of maintaining tempo in maneuver operations across the spectrum of conflict and conditions. Other crossing operations with standardized doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures e.g. river crossings, breaches are similar to passages of lines. The author studies an historical example of a failed passage using the evaluation criteria of simplicity, mass, synchronization, and versatility and revises the operation using proposed organizational and control procedures.

Descriptors:

• *MANEUVERS
• *ARMY OPERATIONS
• *MILITARY DOCTRINE
• MILITARY FORCES(UNITED STATES)
• WARFARE
• MILITARY STRATEGY
• CASE STUDIES
• JOINT MILITARY ACTIVITIES
• STANDARDIZATION
• CONFLICT
• UNITED NATIONS
• ARMY PLANNING
• COMBAT FORCES
• AIR LAND BATTLES
• COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEMS

Subject Categories:

• Government and Political Science
• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics
• Military Forces and Organizations
• Command, Control and Communications Systems

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE