U.S. Armor in Afghanistan: Worth the Effort?
U.S. Armor in Afghanistan: Worth the Effort?
by Irvin Oliver
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With the arrival of 14 U.S. Marine M1A1 tanks in Afghanistan, it may be worth considering the wider role of armor and mechanized forces in irregular warfare. For many, the initial view may be that mechanized forces have little or no place in Afghanistan for several noted reasons — the logistical burden of mechanized forces will further strain an already fragile supply chain; the Soviets used mechanized forces and failed; mechanized forces limit the effectiveness of counterinsurgency. While there may be some validity in all of these criticisms, they are flawed or incomplete arguments that rely on shaky assumptions. The primary consideration of the introduction of armor and mechanized forces into a situation like Afghanistan should be the means of employment and terrain considerations.
Download the Full Article: U.S. Armor in Afghanistan: Worth the Effort?
Major Irvin Oliver currently serves as an instructor of Comparative Politics at the United States Military Academy. Previously, he commanded D CO, 1-67 AR, 4th ID and he was the brigade plans officer for 2nd BCT, 4th ID.
