| Any changes from the 1998 OPFOR Battle
Book are depicted in GREEN printing. Last updated on 01 March, 1999 For any comments, additions, deletions, or modifications for this Battle Book contact LTC Bill Bryan. |
|
CHAPTER 6: OPFOR Defensive Operations
A successful counterattack requires the same force ratios as an ordinary attack. The OPFOR constantly emphasizes that the defense is a temporary form of combat, making the transition to the offense easier. The OPFOR may opt to 1) execute a counterattack when the BLUFOR’s attack stalls or, 2) restore the defense should the BLUFOR succeed in breaching defensive positions. The OPFOR will develop a counterattack with the second-echelon or reserve forces. Tanks normally spearhead the counterattacks, following an intense air and artillery preparation, and with the support of fires of adjacent units.
a. Features. The main features of OPFOR counterattacks are as follows:
The BLUFOR’s attack must have been halted or, at the very least, the momentum of the attack must have been slowed. Antitank reserves and mobile obstacle detachments can be used to achieve this.
The BLUFOR must be unable to commit a reserve into the penetration, either because it has already been committed, or because it has been neutralized by long range artillery fire.
b. Ambushes. Ambushes are a feature of any OPFOR defense. In size, they vary from individual weapon systems to a platoon and are generally formed from second-echelon units. Tanks, BMPs, antitank weapons, and helicopters are all used for ambushes. They are sited on likely axes of approach, on flanks and in gaps and between first- and second-echelon positions. The goal of the ambush is to reduce the BLUFOR’s strength before he reaches the main position and to slow his advance.
| Any changes from the 1998 OPFOR Battle
Book are depicted in GREEN printing. Last updated on 01 March, 1999 For any comments, additions, deletions, or modifications for this Battle Book contact LTC Bill Bryan. |
|
