An Examination of Land Warrior's Contribution to Combat Power on the Battlefield

Abstract

Abstract : Will Land Warrior improve the Infantry's combat power on the modern battlefield? Would this increased combat power change tactics, techniques and procedures, or yield a benefit that changes the ratio required for a successful attack or defense? At first the answer to this question appears self evident, however, a closer look reveals several key issues. Combat power is created by combining the elements of maneuver, firepower, protection, and leadership. The dynamics of these elements combined to create combat power: the ability to fight. The elements of combat power are doctrinal, time tested tenants that provide a framework for evaluating a change in overall combat power. For the purpose of studying Land Warrior the first three elements of combat power: maneuver, (including mobility) firepower, and protection are most relevant to the discussion. Leadership does not directly apply because of its personal intangible nature. However, command and control, a subset of leadership, is affected and requires examination. This overall examination results in an evaluation of Land Warrior's contribution to the combat power of the Infantry on the modern battlefield.