This monograph examines the current state of ground tactical mobility in U.S. airborne forces. Our national leadership is currently reviewing the assignment of roles and missions of the armed forces. Down-sizing will require the Army to employ its forces more efficiently. We must develop methods to enable smaller forces to apply the same level of combat power. This monograph examines a proposal to increase the ground tactical mobility of airborne forces in order to apply combat power more efficiently. This monograph traces the historical development of mobility in airborne units to reveal their mobility capability and deficiencies. Past methods used to increase the tactical mobility of airborne units are studied. A conclusion of this monograph is that ground tactical mobility must be increased in U.S. airborne forces to meet current and future mission requirements. The theoretical and doctrinal implications for increasing ground tactical mobility is considered in light of a new National Military Power Projection Strategy. The HMMWV is proposed as a means to increase ground tactical mobility of airborne units. It is analyzed against the criteria of maneuver, firepower, protection and leadership (the dynamics of combat power as described in FM 100-5 Operations). The HMMWV is found adequate for the mission requirements of U.S. airborne forces.

ADA 262656 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.)