capabilities of ground mobility and armor protection. While the shock effect and
firepower of the mechanized infantry division may be somewhat less than that of an
armored division, the mechanized infantry division is especially suited for operation in
conjunction with the armored division.
c. Armored Division. The armored division is formed by the assignment of
armor and mechanized infantry units, with the former predominating. The armored
division is capable of covering extended frontages and relatively deep zones of action
and of operating in widely dispersed formations. The organic vehicles of the
subordinate units of the division provide a high degree of tactical ground mobility. This
division' is more sensitive to terrain than the infantry division. The bulk and weight of
the armored vehicles of the armored division are disadvantages in strategic movement.
Armored divisions are organized for deployment to the TO that permits the exploitation
of their inherent capabilities. They are primarily powerful offensive forces, having a
higher ratio of tank units than the mechanized infantry division.
d. Airborne Division. The airborne division is especially trained and equipped
for delivery into an operational area by parachute. Air transport means must be
provided in this role. While the airborne division has a greater degree of strategic
mobility than other divisions, its capability for tactical mobility is relatively restricted, and
appropriate reinforcements are required to provide the capabilities for sustained combat
comparable with those of infantry divisions. Airborne forces are particularly vulnerable
to enemy armor attack, because of limited antitank protection means.
e. Air Assault Division. The air assault division is especially trained and
equipped for employment by means of helicopter. This division is characterized by
flexibility and responsiveness in the accomplishment of tactical missions. It is capable
of providing surprise action at widely separated points on the battlefield in either
successive or concurrent airmobile attacks. It is particularly adaptable to
against irregular forces, and over-obstacle assault operations. As part of a larger force,
it is effective, if suitably reinforced, in other offensive and defensive operations and in
retrograde operations. For sustained combat, the division requires augmentation of its
land and air vehicular transportation and supporting forces. Air assault forces are
particularly vulnerable to enemy armor attack, because of limited antitank weapon
NOTE: The terms "airmobile" and "air assault" are synonymous. The term "air
assault" is being used in current training publications to replace the older term
"airmobile."
1-12. COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT COMMANDS
a. The principal organizations designed to provide combat service support within
MD0002
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