Perspectives on the Battle of Wanat

Challenges Facing Small Unit Operations in Afghanistan

by Randall Steeb, John Matsumura, Thomas J. Herbert, John Gordon IV, William W. Horn

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The research reported in this document is focused on exploring alternatives for improving ongoing small unit operations in Afghanistan. The effort attempts to provide a more hands-on look at the situation that platoon-sized units face in establishing and protecting combat outposts (COPs). Using the Battle of Wanat as a case study, the authors explore and evaluate a range of alternative technological and corresponding tactical improvements. They begin the process by developing a tactical-level understanding of the circumstances and risks that a small unit faced as it transitioned from a vehicle patrol base to a COP. Future research will examine near-term technologies and tactics, along with alternative concepts of operation that could improve future outcomes for such small units.

Table of Contents

  • Chapter One

    Introduction

  • Chapter Two

    Background

  • Chapter Three

    Analyzing the Battle Using Force-on-Force Simulation

  • Chapter Four

    Key Findings from the Baseline Analysis

  • Chapter Five

    Next Steps

Research conducted by

The research described in this report was sponsored by the United States Army and conducted by the RAND Arroyo Center.

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