The Effect of Air Defence Support on the Offensive Operation of the Battalion Task Force

This article investigates the impact of air defence support within a battalion task force context against an enemy company supported by Mil Mi 24 helicopters. Utilizing the Masa SWORD simulation program, the study employs two sets of simulations examining a battalion task force, augmented by an RBS 70 armed platoon, as it engages an enemy company. The objective is to test the hypothesis that the integration of an air defence unit leads to a reduction in the time required to tactically eliminate enemy units backed by helicopters, along with substantial decreases in casualties and equipment losses in comparison to scenarios lacking such integration. The findings emphasize the critical role of air defence units in enhancing the effectiveness and survivability of modern infantry fighting vehicles, underscoring the necessity of a robust air defence infrastructure, represented by the Very Short-Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) systems, to ensure viable deployment against technologically advanced adversaries. Consequently, without adequate air defence capabilities, employing troops in conflict scenarios could prove to be strategically perilous for any military force. At the same time, the article emphasizes the importance of introducing war simulations into the process of planning operations and thus highlights the possibilities of reducing overall losses due to the possible prediction of combat results thanks to simulations.