![]() In considering the possibility that a conventional conflict in Europe might escalate, the Soviets have developed extensive plans either to preempt a NATO nuclear strike by launching a massive attack, or to launch a massive first strike against prime NATO targets. Planning is constantly revised to reflect shifting political objectives as well as the introduction of more capable weapons systems. They also recognize that the war aims can only be achieved by the combined operations of all forces in a systematic fashion controlled by a centralized strategic command authority. The Soviets recognize the importance of nuclear weapons, which can have a direct influence on the course and outcome of a war. Soviet air, missile and naval forces would all be Soviet special purpose forces, SPETSNAZ, would be employed throughout Western Europe for reconnaissance, to disrupt communications, destroy bridges, seize choke points and direct attacking aircraft to prime targets. Additionally, transport helicopters and aircraft are provided to inject airmobile and air-assault units rapidly from 50 to 100 kilometers ahead of a main attack to disrupt the enemy, seize key terrain and to support operations by OMGs. Soviet ground formations are provided with attack helicopters for close air support to maintain rapid momentum. The Soviets plan to employ Operational Maneuver Groups (OMGs)in sharp thrusts to destroy enemy forces in depth. Formations that met stiff resistance would be rapidly reinforced by sec.and echelon forces. Soviet ground formations hope to achieve a rate of advance of up to 100 kilometers per day. The Soviets plan for a very rapid, combined arms operation to reach the Atlantic in the shortest time possible. In the Western TVD, Soviet war aims would be to defeat NATO and occupy Western Europe before it could be reinforced. The same planning process occurs for Soviet objectives in the Southern and Far Eastern Theaters. This organizational concept enables military planners to formulate military strategy and tactics to achieve political objectives in the geographic region, taking into consideration the capabilities of the missiles, aircraft,ships and ground forces at their disposal. Soviet planning for the Western theater, encompassing all of Europe, envisions three continental TVDs - Northwestern, Western and Southwestern - and two maritime, Arctic and Atlantic. More importantly in planning for such military operations the Soviets divide a theater, for operational-command and strategic planning purposes, into theaters of military operations (TVDs). The Soviets envision as many as three main theaters for the Eurasian land mass: Western, Southern and Far Eastern, each with a set of political objectives affecting military operations within the theater. ![]() In addition to these force enhancements, Soviet military planners adapt tactics to the capability of new systems and changing political objectives. Soviet air forces are being modernized with high-performance aircraft while theater missile forces receive more accurate systems with greater range and throwweight. Soviet naval forces continue to receive larger and more lethal ships and submarines. Soviet ground force divisions have been enlarged and equipped with the most modern tanks, artillery and helicopters. Over the past two decades, Soviet forces for theater warfare have been steadily expanded and upgraded in every category of weapons systems. Soviet Military Power - 1984 Soviet Military Power
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