Combat Operations on Mountainous Terrain, Challenges and Ways to Solve Them

Abstract

The presented work discusses the challenges of fighting in the mountains and ways to solve them. The main goal of the work is to identify the main threats that the unit may face during military operations in the mountains according to combat functions. The difficulties of operating on mountainous terrain are also described and recommendations are formulated, which are important to be taken into account by the unit’s command ring during combat training and military operations. Mountains have attracted human attention since ancient times and have always played an important role in human history. They are part of our environment and deeply ingrained in our imaginations, we have not only given them symbolic meaning, but have made them objects of worship and art. Since ancient times, mountains have inspired man with respect and awe. From the anthropogeographic point of view, mountains represent a very diverse and often complex complex of geographical conditions. When analyzing these conditions, it is possible to bring to the fore the separate geographical conditions of this or that mountain landscape and their connection in the issue of preparing the country’s territory for war. When choosing a certain pass for communication routes, historical, economic and strategic conditions often play a greater role than natural conditions. The strategic and military value of mountains (such as the Alps, the Caucasus, the Himalayas, the Balkans, etc.) historically stems from the fact that they represent natural borders between states and have a significant impact on the country’s defense capabilities. High peaks, valleys, and dense forest cover make it difficult for the enemy to maneuver and move, giving the defensive side an advantage. As a result, from ancient times to the present day, mountainous regions are the arena for the development of wars and conflicts of various geopolitical types.