Irregular Warfare and Modern Defense – Counterinsurgency Operations

Irmina Denysiuk

doi:10.37105/sd.71

Abstract

Nowadays, there are a lot of dangers, not only those related to the military. Particular attention should be paid to the threat of guerrilla activity. Therefore, the aim of this article is to indicate the essence of contemporary guerrilla operations in conflicts, and their methods of operation that allow them to achieve their goals. It was also assumed that the modern crisis response operations, and especially COIN (counterinsurgency) operations, constitute a comprehensive approach to counteracting guerrilla activity. This article uses theoretical methods. Using the analysis and synthesis of materials and studies, the most important conclusions were pointed out. The leading role in prevention insurgency activities lies with the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and their crisis response operations. In the Strategic Concept NATO 2010 specialists are putting more attention to conducting counterinsurgency operations (COIN). COIN operations are nowadays the most comprehensive tool for combating guerrilla activity, which mainly hits the civilian population. The concepts of using the assumptions of anti-Partisan operations should be implemented on a full scale, including in the armed forces of the Republic of Poland. Particular attention should be paid to the threat of the guerrilla activity in conflicts. These problems are complex and they deal with many aspects (social, economic, cultural, political and many others). Moreover the partisans activities are irregular and they are often targeted at civilians. This article indicates the methods and techniques used by insurgents in the fight against the state / government. Reference has also been made to the activities that inhibit their activity - complex counterinsurgency operations.

Highlights

Guerrilla activities are defined as organized, often ideologically motivated actions taken by irregular groups whose aim is to change the political balance of power in the region or to prevent such change
Many conflicts and crises are characterized by a high degree of irregularity
Contemporary insurgent groups look for ways to maximize its survivability and to establish their own influences in a given state. This is very complicated for counterinsurgency operations

Summary

The idea of modern insurgent activities

Many conflicts and crises are characterized by a high degree of irregularity. Insurgent activities use the methods and forms of irregular combat to achieve the goals. Insurgents seek ways and terrorist methods to support the achievement of their assumed objectives Such complex activities of an irregular character threaten all aspects of society, from the political and economic to legal and organizational functioning of the authorities and government state The guerrillas, by using contemporary technology, refer to the instruments of propaganda by controlling behavior of local community They undermine the legitimacy of local authorities and penetrate other countries in search of external support for their activities among groups of emigrants. Mental interaction causes physical destruction, but it intensifies panic Insurgents choose their targets in the urban environments, and focuses on the civilian population. Partisan activities are visible in contemporary internal crises, including in Syria and Ukraine

Insurgent activities and strategies of action

Modern counterinsurgency operations

Summary