Joint Force Quarterly
Abstract
Since World War II, the U.S. military has relied on global access to intermediate staging bases for the uncontested massing of combat power. However, recent advancements in antiaccess/area-denial (A2/AD) networks by strategic competitors like Russia and China threaten this capability. This article examines the historical context and current challenges of Joint Forcible Entry Operations (JFEO), emphasizing their necessity in future conflicts despite these threats. Analyzing the Russian military’s unsuccessful air assault at Hostomel Airport during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine provides critical insights into the complexities and risks associated with JFEOs. While the inherent risks of forcible entry operations have intensified, they remain viable if strategically adapted. Recommendations include dispersing lift assets, enhancing mobility and precision fire capabilities, and task-organizing flexible follow-on forces to ensure operational success. By blending historical perspectives with modern operational realities, this article contributes to the understanding of JFEOs and highlights the importance of adaptability in maintaining the effectiveness of forcible entry operations against contemporary threats.
Recommended Citation
Jonathan M. Cohen, "From Sparta to Hostomel: The Enduring Role of Joint Forcible Entry Operations," Joint Force Quarterly 115 (4th Quarter 2024), 102-111, https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/joint-force-quarterly/vol115/iss3/14.
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