Moving the Enemy: Operational Art in the Chinese PLA's Huai Hai Campaign

Bjorge, Gary J

ISBN 10: 1907521216 / ISBN 13: 9781907521218

Published by Military Bookshop, 2010

About this Item

Unread book in perfect condition.

Seller Inventory # 10094071

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Moving the Enemy: Operational Art in the Chinese PLA's Huai Hai Campaign
• Publisher: Military Bookshop
• Publication Date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1907521216
• ISBN 13: 9781907521218
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: As New

About this title

Synopsis

This study examines the Huai Hai Campaign as an example of operational-level warfare as described in the 2001 version of U.S. Army Field Manual 3-0, Operations. It also examines the campaign from the perspective of the military thought contained in the ancient Chinese military classic, The Art of War, and the Communist operational doctrine in effect at the time of the campaign. What emerges is a picture of what operational art can contribute to warfare. Communist commanders consistently maintained an awareness of the war situation as a whole and continually ensured that the objectives of their military operations were linked to strategic goals. The study shows that Su Yu, the acting commander of the East China Field Army, was an excellent practitioner of operational art and a general who was willing to speak out against military operations that would not contribute to achieving political, social, or economic goals. The study contains background material on the Communist mili-tary forces that fought the campaign and the commanders who led them in the field. Using messages sent between various Communist headquarters, the study describes and analyzes the operational decisions that were made. Much of this material has not appeared before in English. This enables readers to gain a fresh appreciation for the professional competence of military men who were among the founding generation of the People's Liberation Army and later played significant roles in building the military strength of the People's Republic of China.