Gordon L. Rottman / Peter Dennis
overblik
Just about every war movie - famously, Saving Private Ryan and Band of Brothers - includes dramatic scenes of soldiers trying to attack an enemy pillbox or trench. Gordon L Rottman (who became expert in these tactics whilst serving in the Vietnam War) explains and illustrates the kit and techniques used in assaulting fortifications. He covers the differences in British, American, German, Soviet and Japanese approaches and experiences, concentrating on small units of foot soldiers with hand-carried equipment. Their tactical deployment is analysed and explained in detail, with the support of colour artwork, maps, diagrams and photographs.
contents
INTRODUCTION: The rifle platoon·THE OBJECTIVE: Defensive Tactics – Obstacles – Field Fortifications·BREACHING OBSTACLES: Anti-tank obstacles – crossing gaps – minefields·DEMOLITION MATERIALS: General description: basic charges – special charges – fuses and detonators – injuries; National specifics: United States – British Commonwealth – Soviet Union – Germany – Japan·ASSAULT TACTICS APPLIED: Weapons employment and effect – assault preparations – supporting fires – smoke screens; The assault·NOTES ON NATIONAL PRACTICE: United States – British Commonwealth – Soviet Union – Germany – Japan·RECOMMENDED READING·PLATE COMMENTARIES·INDEX