*Translated declassified transcripts of battlefield documentation collected*
SOVIET Sept 29 1987
Situation:
Current intel is sparse, bypassing Tank Regiment encountered light resistance 3.5 hours ago. Enemy appeared partially dug in. Leo1 AFV’s, light APC’s seen. Approximate size of force <80
Enemy estimated 1 company reinforced.
Defending village designation P-27 on a rise with good fields of fire. Light woods on North Eastern approach. No fordable stream bisects approach.
FORCE ID: 18th Guard /27th Regiment / 2nd Bn Coy 1 & 2.
Our mission is to secure the Fuel and victuals dump W-2-7 inside P-27 village. Approaches require bridge control. Both bridges are reported still up and functional
Using Hasty Attack scheme
Company level arty attached to Company #1 & #2.
1x MI8 transport light platoon drop option
T-55M’s attached 8
Scheme of manoeuvre for Hasty Assault Plan Alpha
- Company #1 & 2 will advance along route of march – North of the small lake along the road into Echo-2 [village].
- Company #2 will secure Echo 2 and cover approaches.
- BTRS to provide covering fire and Indirect assets to deliver smoke and suppressing fire.
- Tanks will lead the advance screening BTR’s loaded with Coy #2.
- Co #2 will cross the bridge enter the woods and prepare for Co #1 to pass through and assault the village.
- Coy #1 will either dismount in woods or press in close to P-2-7 then dismount under smoke, and advance with all tanks.
- Helo insert NOE of Platoon once AA assets are assessed.
- 1 tank platoon to provide overwatch/flank protection against possible enemy reinforcement.
- Both companies have reduced manpower by 30+%.
Note:
A viable alternate Plan B is a left side sweep. But with significant hindering terrain this was discounted by upper command.
This might be an option if an AVLB is required. versus the open terrain on the right for bridge laying. Higher Command has us on a very short time scale.
A Center push is too open I think.
Part #1 here