Introduction
Where
The core battlefront encompassed a Middle Eastern country known as Iraq. C-RAM system was essential in over thirty Iraqi military bases, camps, and other sites (U.S. Army, 2007). These sites were scattered across the country, and during Operation Iraqi Freedom, the United States-led coalition troops used them extensively. United States commanded a Coalition force of soldiers from the USA, U.K., and many more nations. The United States played an essential role in implementing the C-RAM system.
Who
It was a multi-national coalition force mainly consisting of the US, British, and other soldiers. The U.S. Army played a significant role in successfully implementing the C-RAM technology (U.S. Army, 2007). The Iraqi military consists of regime-aligned paramilitary groups and formations of the regular army of Saddam Hussein—the militant and paramilitary using mortars and artillery rockets to pose a threat in Iraq.
When
Operation started when the coalition troops invaded Iraq on March 20, 2003. That was in the battle of C-ram during Operation Iraqi Freedom period. American forces officially left the country on December 15, 2011, thus ending Operation Iraqi Freedom. In combating analysis, which focused on the beginning of the first decade of this century till the end of the Operation, the years that the C-RAM system was put into Operation and effectively combated indirect fire threats will be emphasized.
Review the Setting
Overview of Strategy and Operations:
Objectives of Operation Iraqi Freedom included removing Saddam Hussein’s regime, expunging all WMDs, and setting up another authority in Iraq. The development of the C-RAM was a response to an increased threat to coalition sites from hostile rockets, artillery, and mortar. The C-RAM had a sophisticated tracking technology to target multiple rounds of RAM at a time accurately. The ability of such tracking enhanced the success rate of a high shot probability and successful threat neutralization (U.S. Army, 2007).
Investigate the operational area:
(1) Climate: In Iraq, there are two seasons; the summer is hot and dry, while the winter is mild and wet. These weather conditions impact military actions, supplies, and equipment maintenance.
(2) topography: The varied topography of Iraq influenced military tactics and logistics; the country consisted of urban and desert areas.
Examine the Principal Tactical and Operational Antagonists:
(1) Size and Composition: However, the coalition led by the United States had several armed forces.
(2) Technology: The coalition had the upper hand because of the sophisticated weapons they used, which included the C-RAM systems.
(3) Doctrine and Training: On the contrary, Iraq’s military had obsolete doctrine and training, while allied forces were professionally trained and put value on joint operations.
(4) Logistics Systems: The coalition’s logistics were complex and enabled prompt deployments in contrast to Iraq, where they were affected by sanctions.
(5) Intelligence: Although Iraq’s intelligence machinery was small, the coalition had strong intelligence capabilities.5
(6) Condition and Morale: Morale was extremely low in the Iraqi army, and they had old and poor weapons, while the coalition troops drove good armor in state-of-the-art vehicles.
(7) Command, Control, and Communications: The coalition enjoyed sophisticated C3, and the Iraqi ones were ancient.
(8) Leadership: However, while there were many poor leaders in Iraq, coalition troops enjoyed the benefits of outstanding leadership.
Clarify the Objective and Explain the Opposing Forces’ Initial Strategy:
Operation Iraqi Freedom was intended to overthrow Saddam Hussein’s administration in order not to leave any danger caused by the WMD and establish a new system of administration in its place. At this point, the Iraqi military used the anti-aircraft and missile weapons as a defense against the coalition forces.
Describe the Action
Summarize the Battle’s Opening Moves:
The debut of the C-RAM system was an essential step toward the defense of coalition bases against rocket, artillery, and mortar attacks. This radar-guided weapon with a 20mm Gatling gun helped with the rapid engagement of approaching threats, as well. (Pike, J,2009).
Explain the Main Stages and Important Occurrences:
The C-RAM was also instrumental in identifying and neutralizing incoming threats as it helped protect troops and civilians from harm during Operation Iraqi Freedom (U.S. Army, 1).
State the Result:
The C-RAM technology significantly reduced incidents such as casualties and other forms of damage that were caused by the enemy’s indirect fire strikes during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Determine the Significance of the Actions
Connect Causes to Effects:
The C-RAM system proved its effectiveness in preserving human life and defending the essential amenities by deploying it during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The success story of C-RAM was a testament that any modern war needs highly advanced air defense systems.
Define Military “Lessons Learned”:
Operation Iraqi Freedom revealed why quick and efficient air defenses are essential for the current battles. The effectiveness of C-RAM contributed to the development of standard systems and the doctrine of aerial security that favored joints in aerial defense.
Conclusion
The battle of C-RAM was one of the defensive engagements during Operation Iraqi Freedom, highlighting the significance of modernized air defense equipment in modern-day wars. The C-RAM system is a game changer in air defense because it prevented possible enemy indirect fire strikes against the coalition base or any other facility. Operation Iraqi Freedom is a critical case study to understand the technical, operational, and strategic side of current warfare.
Reference
Department of Defense. The Commander’s Handbook (2007), C-RAM system.
Pike, J. (2009). C-RAM system or onboard phalanx weapon system.
U.S. Army. (2007). C-RAM commander’s handbook. The U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence.
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