In this month’s Tactics 101, the authors discuss retrograde operations in all their various forms, functions, and measures.

In this month’s Tactics 101, the authors examine how to best use all available assets in defense, including: Intelligence; Maneuver; Fire Support; Mobility/Counter-Mobility/Survivability; Air Defense; Combat Support; and Command and Control.

In warfare, obstacle planning is part of an overall battlefield defense strategy. This installment in a continuing series, Tactics 101, provides guidance for effective obstacle planning.

The different types of battlefield emplacements and how to use them is the focus of this installment of the continuing series Tactics 101 on Armchair General.

In this month’s Tactics 101, an Armchair General continuing series, the authors look at the crucial elements in planning for and preparing an engagement area, including use of obstacles, direct and indirect fire, and more.

This installment in the continuing Tactics 101 series from Armchair General focuses on defensive planning and, specifically, the mental model a commander should pursue when he must defend a position.

The continuing series Tactics 101 begins an in-depth examination of defensive operations. The defense is all about preparation, massing effects, and making the enemy react to you.

Commander’s guidance is principally a tool utilized early in the planning of a mission. If used properly it assists a commander in focusing his staff on developing a flexible plan. This article explores how to use commander’s guidance effectively.

How a commander communicates his intent to subordinates can make the difference between success and failure.

Share your thoughts about Tactics 101′s lesson on cordon and search operations, a deadly game of hide and seek.

“The Thebans immediately closed up ranks to repel all attacks on them. Twice or thrice they beat back their assailants. But the Plataen men shouted and charged them, the women and slaves screamed and yelled from the houses and pelted …

Before you begin the planning and preparation of attacking into an urban area, the first thing you must decide is; is it necessary?

Bloodshed in street fighting is a common component of conventional and irregular war. Cities are where people live and trade. They are a visible display of wealth and power.

After defining the battlefield environment and describing the battlefield’s effects; it is now time to take this understanding and utilize it to analyze the enemy.

The terrain in the urban environment dramatically impacts both the way a defender defends and an attacker attacks. It provides ach side numerous opportunities to exploit.

Fighting in urban areas is a nasty business. Unfortunately, there seem to be fewer and fewer alternatives for now and into the near future.