Surprise and deception have played a key role in the evolution of Soviet military theory and practice. Soviet experience with deception has shaped contemporary Soviet military art, for the Soviets feel that the achievement of surprise and war is directly dependent upon their ability to deceive potential enemies. This work draws extensively upon Soviet sources and the archival materials of Soviet foes to expose a vast mosaic of Soviet military deception. From early, tentative, and often unsuccessful Soviet attempts to deploy deception early in the Second World War, the Soviet slowly developed both an understanding of the theory of deception and a talent for its employment. They are increasingly sophisticated approach to deception reflected a belief that it applied to all levels of war (strategic, operational, and tactical) and required a unity of purpose to be conducted successfully. The lessons the Soviets learned during the Second World War have left a valuable legacy for the Soviet general staff as it ponders the nature of war in an age of nuclear and high technology warfare. -- From the book jacket.

The theory of Maskirovka -- Pre war theory and practice -- Theory and war experience -- The practice of Maskirovka: the first period of war (1941- November 1942) -- The practice of Maskirovka: the second period of war (November 1942- December 1943) -- The practice of Maskirovka: the 3rd period of war (1944) -- The practice of Maskirovka: the 3rd period of war (1945) -- Patterns of deception: reflections on Soviet Second World War Maskirovka experiences -- Implications for the future -- Appendices.