Soviet Military Art in a Time of Change
Command and Control of the Future Battlefield
By: Robert C. M. Hall
"An appreciation of the command and control system of any Armed Forces provides the key to understanding how the military power of that state is used. In the present climate of political and economic instability in the Soviet Union, a thorough examination of Soviet command and control is essential. [The author] describes the origins and current configurations of the system. He explains how technological advances in weapons systems and developments in troop control have promoted change at all levels. These in turn have influenced military doctrine, the constantly evolving set of precepts and theories that define much of Soviet strategic and operation practice"--Dust jacket.
AI Overview
"Soviet Military Art in a Time of Change: Command and Control of the Future Battlefield" by Robert C. M. Hall is a book that examines the evolving nature of Soviet military strategy and command structures in the late 1980s. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Military Strategy: The book delves into the strategic changes within the Soviet military, focusing on how these changes were influenced by political developments in the late 1980s.
- Command and Control: It explores the command and control systems of the Soviet military, analyzing their effectiveness and potential for future improvements.
- Technological Advancements: The book discusses how technological advancements impacted Soviet military art, including the integration of new technologies into their command structures.
- Operational Dynamics: It examines the operational dynamics of the Soviet military, including tactics, logistics, and the role of intelligence in decision-making.
Plot Summary
The book is not a narrative in the traditional sense but rather an analytical examination of the Soviet military's transformation during a period of significant political change. It provides a detailed look at the command structures, operational strategies, and technological advancements that were shaping the Soviet military's capabilities.
Critical Reception
While there is limited direct critical reception available in the sources provided, the book's focus on a critical period in military history suggests it would be of interest to military historians and strategists. The book's publication in 1991, shortly after the collapse of the Soviet Union, positions it as a timely analysis of the Soviet military's final years.
Author's Background
Robert C. M. Hall, the author, brings a unique perspective to the book. His background in the UK's Ministry of Defence (Defence Intelligence) provides him with extensive knowledge of military strategy and operations. His experience in the British Army and subsequent work in defense-related fields further enhance his expertise, making his analysis of the Soviet military art particularly insightful.
Availability
The book is available in physical format and can be found in various libraries, including the State Library of Victoria and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It includes bibliographical references and an index, making it a valuable resource for further study.
In summary, "Soviet Military Art in a Time of Change" by Robert C. M. Hall offers a comprehensive examination of the Soviet military's strategic and operational changes during a period of significant political upheaval. The book's focus on command and control systems, technological advancements, and operational dynamics makes it a valuable resource for military historians and strategists.