Strategic Studies Institute

Soldiers in Cities: Military Operations on Urban Terrain Strategic Studies Institute

This compendium is the result of a conference on "Military Operations in an Urban Environment" cosponsored by the Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce in conjunction with the Kentucky Commission on Military Affairs, the U. S. Army War College, and the Association of the United States Army. At the time of the conference, the concept of homeland defense was emerging as an increasingly important mission for the U. S. military. Now this mission has catapulted to prominence with the attacks of September 11 and the appointment of a Director of Homeland Defense-a Cabinet-level position. The authors of the chapters examine the ongoing doctrinal thinking, draw historical comparisons, and discuss the thoughts of those attending the conference-experts from the military, government civilian agencies, academia, think tanks, and the defense industry-regarding unconventional warfare. Collectively, they provide a comprehensive report on critical factors that the U. S. military soon may face.