NTC
OPFOR Update
(CALL
adapted this update from Red
Thrust,
January 1995, published at the NTC.)
*
Krasnovia completes fielding of the T-80 tank.
The
T-80, with its AT-8/SONGSTER
antitank guided missile, provides the OPFOR with a distinct advantage over
the T-72. The
AT-8
has
a MILES range of 4,000 meters. Its effectiveness
is
becoming a significant factor
on
the NTC battlefield.
Note:
See Red
Thrust,
January 1995, "Threat Update," p. 15, for more T-80 information.
*
The NTC OPFOR continues UMZ integration.
The
OPFOR continues to increase the role of minelaying systems. Since its introduction
into the inventory, the
UMZ
has
been used only in the defense
to
lay preplanned mine obstacles. It can also be employed at the last minute to
surprise the BLUEFOR, interrupting their maneuver. Currently
the OPFOR is developing techniques
to
use the UMZ as part of the MOD in the offense. The UMZ will enhance the timeliness
of employing protective
minefields
used
to close breaches and cover exposed flanks. In
conjunction with antitank assets, it can become a formidable threat against
the BLUEFOR. Note:
See Red
Thrust,
July 1994, Threat Update and January 1995, p. 23, for more UMZ information.
*
TRADOC DCSINT publishes Heavy OPFOR doctrinal manuals.
HQ
TRADOC took over the proponency for OPFOR validation and doctrinal development
in October 1994. It has prepared three manuals documenting the Heavy OPFOR
Model: TRADOC
Pamphlets 350-12; 350-14; 350-16.
These
manuals were effective for the OPFOR in May 1995. Copies have been sent to
G2/S2s at corps, division, separate brigade and ACR headquarters. *
BLUEFOR target acquisition teams.
Since
rotation 94-12 (September 1994). BLUEFOR combat observation laser teams (COLT)
and other acquisition assets continue to
avoid
OPFOR detection.
The use of these teams is growing at the NTC, and their success in staying
alive is approaching that of OPFOR reconnaissance. These
teams, often comprised of scouts, ADA and COLTs, can provide the task force
commander with a tremendous reconnaissance
asset
and
force
multiplier.
*
OPFOR Academy classes.
The
NTC OPFOR Academy offers classes on OPFOR tactics, organization, and equipment
to FORSCOM
units.
Training is conducted at the academy at Fort Irwin, CA, or through a mobile
training team (MTT). During
1994, the OPFOR leaders course trained over 200 senior NCOs and officers at
Fort Irwin, and 1,500 during MTTs at home station. The Leader's
Course offers
a study of heavy OPFOR tactics at MRR
level and below.
To request slots or obtain information, contact the academy staff at DSN 470-5502.
Table
of Contents
Chapter
3 - NTC Trends: Individual Soldier Skills
Chapter
5 - Combat Service Support Rehearsals- A Framework
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