The challenges of conducting military operations in a mountainous environment are addressed in a new U.S. Army manual (pdf).
In the mountains, “small mistakes can lead to catastrophic events,” while “technological supremacy can be negated by even the most crude and non-technical enemy actions,” the new manual said.
Therefore, “Mountain combat calls for extreme physical fitness, mental toughness, endurance, and the utmost in tactical and technical proficiency on the part of all individuals.” With proper leadership and preparation, “the physical characteristics of mountains can support and enhance offensive operations.”
See Army Tactics Techniques Procedures (ATTP) 3-21.50, “Infantry Small-Unit Mountain Operations,” February 28, 2011.
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