Armored Infantry in the Us Force Structure

This study is an analysis of how US armored infantrymen are trained, controlled and assigned to units equipped with the infantry fighting vehicle. The purpose of the analysis is to determine the best option for the management of the armored infantry within the US force structure. Three management options are analyzed - the continuation of the current policy, the designation of a separate armored infantry branch, and management by the Armor Community. A historical study of the development of the US armored infantry is outlined to determine how the current policy was achieved. The development of armored infantry in the German, Soviet and Israeli Armies is outlined for comparison to the US situation. One of the conclusions drawn from this investigation is that the US armored infantryman is not being fully developed under the current policy. The tactical, technical and doctrinal development of the armored infantry has not received the necessary emphasis to maximize its potential. The designation of the armored infantry as a separate branch would not be an effective option based upon several constraints listed in the study. The management of the armored infantry by the Armor Community appears to be the best option to maximize the capabilities of the US armored infantryman.