The podcast discusses maneuver warfare, its limitations and the importance of historical examples. It also explores the shift towards long range fires in military strategy and the impact on morale. The speaker reevaluates multi-domain operations, suggesting a narrower focus on specific operational problems.
Maneuver warfare should not be limited to any specific institution and should focus on mental and moral aspects, not just physical movement.
Challenging and evolving military doctrine is crucial to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in modern warfare.
Deep dives
Overview of the Podcast
In this episode, host Amos Fox interviews Dr. Heather Venerable, a professor of security studies and managing editor at the Strategy Bridge. They discuss the concept of maneuver warfare and its relevance in modern military thinking. The conversation explores the idea that maneuver warfare is not owned by any specific institution, but is a universally applicable concept that should be critically examined. They emphasize the importance of understanding the mental and moral aspects of maneuver, rather than solely focusing on physical movement. They also highlight the need to question and evolve military doctrine to adapt to the changing nature of warfare.
The Evolution of Dr. Venerable's Position on Maneuver Warfare
Dr. Venerable explains that while maneuver warfare is a great concept in theory, she questions the historical evidence supporting its dominant role in warfare. She argues that the concept has been watered down over time, with terms like multi-domain operations becoming synonymous and losing the strength of the original idea. She suggests that focusing on the mental and moral effects of maneuver would be more valuable and advises against dogmatically adhering to specific doctrines.
Critiques of Maneuver Doctrine and Military Thinking
The conversation delves into the criticism that those who question maneuver warfare often lack a deep understanding of doctrine. Dr. Venerable challenges this notion, stating that deep knowledge of doctrine does not necessarily make one a better thinker. She points out how doctrine can become bloated, lacking intellectual rigor, due to the multiple contributions and approval processes involved. The discussion highlights the importance of critically examining existing ideas and doctrines to ensure they remain relevant and effective.
The Shift Towards Long-Range Fires and the State of Military Thinking
The hosts address the trend of Western militaries leaning towards long-range precision strikes and the potential implications for maneuver warfare. They raise concerns that an overemphasis on strike-based strategies may undermine the principles of maneuver, which include mobility and bold movement. They also discuss the need for force structure that supports maneuver, highlighting the balance between endurance, protection, and momentum. The conversation concludes by acknowledging the importance of reevaluating military thinking and doctrine to adapt to future conflicts.