Коммандный колледж Сухопутных войск США (United States Army Command and General Staff College, Kansas, Fort Leavenworth) 1994, -121 с. (на англ. яз.). Специальность: военные науки (military art).This thesis examines the 3x8 direct support field artillery battalion in the Army's heavy divisions from its inception in 1976 to its present state. The study places special emphasis on documenting the operational change of the firing battery from primarily platoon-based operations before Operation Desert Storm to primarily battery-based operations during and after Operation Desert Storm. The thesis compares platoon and battery-based operations with the Army's initial intent for 3x8 operations, the Army's current doctrinal manuals, and its future artillery systems. The two future direct support systems studied are the M109A6 Paladin System (currently being fielded) and the Advanced Field Artillery System (AFAS). The thesis concludes in determining that platoon-based operations should be the primary method of employing firing batteries in 3x8 battalions both now and with future systems. The thesis makes a number of recommendations to facilitate platoon and battery-based firing battery operations.Contents:
Introduction.
Review of the literature.
Research methodology.
Analysis.
Conclusions and recommendations.
