English

DTIC ADA217522: The Essence of Operational Maneuver

Operational Art, the link between strategy and tactics is currently a favorite topic for doctrinal discussion. Yet the operational level application of the elements of combat power -- maneuver, firepower, protection and leadership -- has not been fully addressed. This paper focuses on defining operational maneuver. First, current doctrinal definitions of operational art and maneuver are examined. Then, General Robert E. Lee's defense of Richmond during the Civil War and General Douglas MacArthur's campaign to defend Australia and advance to the Philippines are outlined. These two vignettes highlight how these two masters of operational art used operational maneuver to win their campaigns. The evidence drawn from current doctrine and the two historical examples is analyzed to discloses the essence of operational maneuver.

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