The Queen of Battle: A Case for True Light Infantry Capability.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	The Queen of Battle: A Case for True Light Infantry Capability.
Authors:	Anderson, Gregory K., Ducote, Brian M., Ferguson, D. Max, Zwirgzdas, Mark G.
Source:	Military Review. Jul/Aug2024, Vol. 104 Issue 4, p90-103. 14p.
Subjects:	Infantry, Russian invasion of Ukraine, 2022-, Toughness (Personality trait)
Abstract:	This article explores the significance of true light infantry capability in the U.S. Army. It argues that light infantry units are adaptable and excel in various terrains and climates, but have become burdened with heavy equipment over time, losing their versatility. The article calls for a reawakening of true light infantry and discusses how the U.S. Army can prioritize modernization to meet the demands of the modern battlefield. It emphasizes the importance of light infantry in alpine regions, urban landscapes, contested islands, and arctic plains. The article also highlights the effectiveness of light infantry units in rugged terrain and isolated conditions, tracing their roots back to the Revolutionary War and World War II. It concludes by stating that light infantry units will be essential in future conflicts and calls for the transformation and modernization of light infantry capabilities. A study conducted by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) on the war in Ukraine found that dispersion and unencumbered forces were key to survivability in modern warfare, with light infantry units excelling in dispersing, maintaining a reduced signature, and hiding within the electromagnetic spectrum. The study suggests a holistic approach to transforming light infantry, focusing on soldier lethality, network modernization, lift capabilities, and air and missile defense. The text also emphasizes the importance of training and preparing light infantry formations for close combat against near-peer adversaries, readiness in employing modern technology, and empowering junior leaders. It concludes by stating that a true light infantry mentality is essential for the Army to fight [Extracted from the article]
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Database:	Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection

Description
Abstract:	This article explores the significance of true light infantry capability in the U.S. Army. It argues that light infantry units are adaptable and excel in various terrains and climates, but have become burdened with heavy equipment over time, losing their versatility. The article calls for a reawakening of true light infantry and discusses how the U.S. Army can prioritize modernization to meet the demands of the modern battlefield. It emphasizes the importance of light infantry in alpine regions, urban landscapes, contested islands, and arctic plains. The article also highlights the effectiveness of light infantry units in rugged terrain and isolated conditions, tracing their roots back to the Revolutionary War and World War II. It concludes by stating that light infantry units will be essential in future conflicts and calls for the transformation and modernization of light infantry capabilities. A study conducted by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) on the war in Ukraine found that dispersion and unencumbered forces were key to survivability in modern warfare, with light infantry units excelling in dispersing, maintaining a reduced signature, and hiding within the electromagnetic spectrum. The study suggests a holistic approach to transforming light infantry, focusing on soldier lethality, network modernization, lift capabilities, and air and missile defense. The text also emphasizes the importance of training and preparing light infantry formations for close combat against near-peer adversaries, readiness in employing modern technology, and empowering junior leaders. It concludes by stating that a true light infantry mentality is essential for the Army to fight [Extracted from the article]
ISSN:	00264148