Artillery Raid and the Multiple Launch Rocket System -- Surprise, Firepower and Mobility

This study examines the U.S Army Mechanized or Armored Division's capability to conduct a Field Artillery raid on the AirLand battlefield. It first reviews the historical antecedents of the field artillery raid. From there the study goes on to examine the weapon systems currently available to the Division Commander for conduct of an artillery raid and the targets that are primary candidates for attack by such an operation. Next the monogram analyzes and evaluates the applicability of this body of information to the battlefield of the future. A major conclusion is that the field artillery raid is a viable tactic to be used on the battlefield of the future if the raider is equipped with the Multiple Launch Rocket system. It provides the Division Commander with a tactical tool that permits the attack of deep targets previously out of range of artillery systems behind the FLOT. The study also notes that attack on these targets should be conducted in concert with other tactical operations in order to attain surprise and maximize the effects of the weapon systems. Additionally the attack on multiple targets with all available artillery systems will be the most productive means of implementing the FA raid. Finally the monograph develops a scenario that depicts a Field Artillery raid on the AirLand battlefield.