Soviet Operational Art: Will There be a Significant Shift in the Focus of Soviet Operational Art

The monograph discusses the described shift in Soviet Military Doctrine from the offense to the defense. Of particular emphasis is the impact of any such change at the operational level. Soviet history is first examined, beginning with the First World War, focusing on the development of Soviet operational warfare. Current doctrine and capabilities are then reviewed to determine the existing state of operational art. Three aspects of the current Soviet initiatives: the term "defensive," arms control, and the economy are subsequently examined as these relate to a potential Soviet doctrinal shift. The paper uses the historical background; current capabilities; the three areas of focus: the term "defensive;" arms control, and the economy to project the future Soviet doctrinal orientation. The final portion discusses associated implications for the U.S. Army. The conclusions state that the Soviets may be shifting to a defensive doctrine at the operational level but only in the context of preserving the capability to regain the initiative through offensive operations at some point. There is no long term shift to a strictly defensive capability.