This study considers whether there are specific operational level considerations for conducting offensive urban operations. A survey of the last several conflicts indicate the importance of cities. A worldwide trend toward urbanization and a realization that many cities are key or decisive to the attainment of operational or strategic objectives leads one to the conclusion that future military operations will involve the use of force or forces in an urban area. Despite the importance and likelihood of urban conflict, Army tactical doctrine continues to emphasize the avoidance of conducting MOUT. The facts suggest that avoiding built-up areas is no longer practical. Clearly, the U.S. must be prepared to fight this type of unavoidable combat. The American public demands that the U.S. conduct campaigns that result in quick, decisive victory at a low cost. The U.S. can reduce the costs, but cannot eliminate the costs totally. This paper then examines current doctrine for Military Operations on Urban Terrain (MOUT). Two historical reviews serve as examples of urban combat at the operational level. These historical trends are next compared with existing MOUT doctrine to assess its sufficiency. The study concludes with recommendations for operational planners to consider when developing campaign plans that involve urban operations.

ADA 300998 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)