Divisions in the Dirt: Preparing for the Next Big War

Divisions in the Dirt: Preparing for the Next Big War
In an era of escalating global tensions, the U.S. Army is preparing for the possibility of large-scale combat operations. This article explores the Army's strategic shift from fighting insurgencies to preparing for conventional warfare, focusing on a recent training exercise that simulated a full-scale invasion.
The Scenario
The exercise scenario involved the fictional nation of Pirtuni, a U.S. ally, being invaded by thousands of troops from the neighboring country of Donovia. The Donovians, deploying infantry, armor, and anti-aircraft systems, bear a striking resemblance to Russia, while Pirtuni mirrors Poland. In response to the invasion, the Pirtunians assemble a division to counter the attack, calling upon the U.S. Army's 3rd Battalion, 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade for support. Reinforcements from the 1st Armored Division, a battalion of Marines, and various Air Force assets are quickly mobilized.
The Training Exercise
The training exercise took place at Fort Irwin’s National Training Center in California. Inside an abandoned building, commanders, mission planners, operations and intel officers, and other soldiers from the 1st Armored Division poured over maps, strategizing their response to the simulated campaign. The exercise was designed to prepare them for a conventional fight, a departure from the counterinsurgency operations of the past decades.
The Shift in Strategy
The U.S. Army has been transitioning from a modular brigade combat team formation, designed for a more nimble global force, to larger formations capable of major ground combat operations. This shift is in response to the changing global landscape, with the U.S. refocusing its attention on potential adversaries such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
The Challenges
The transition to larger-scale operations presents numerous challenges. The last time the Army fought with a division was during the 2003 Iraq invasion, and before that, the Persian Gulf War in 1991. The Army has been conducting simulated training events to stress-test division headquarters staff on their duties and combat functions. However, these exercises cannot fully replicate the realities of combat.
Conclusion
The U.S. Army's shift towards preparing for large-scale combat operations represents a significant strategic change. The recent training exercise at Fort Irwin’s National Training Center underscores the Army's commitment to ensuring its readiness for potential future conflicts. As global tensions continue to rise, the Army's ability to adapt and prepare for different types of warfare will be crucial.
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