The AMSAA Terrain Research Program

Abstract

Historical combat records contain many instances in which the success of the victor has been due in part to a judicious use of the environment to strengthen his tactical plan. For this reason, military analysts recognize the importance of including a description of the environment in any meaningful analysis of a soldier and his equipment. Terrain characteristics and climatic conditions have become necessary inputs to operations research studies and those combat models and war gaming efforts which rely on such information to develop realistic battlefield dynamics. Terrain surface geometry, soil characteristics and vegetation can have a great impact upon a military unit’s ability to carry out assigned tasks on the battlefield.