Deputy G-3: On D-Day, we expect these WOG 1st Echelon forces along the DMZ to defend the oil field in strength, as long as possible, until they are forced to withdraw, signifying the beginning of Stage C. To cue us, will need NAIs here too. We’ll continue to add to the decision support tools in the war game step as we discover new wrinkles in the plan. During stage C, 2nd MAW , 1st AD and 2nd MARDIV will engage the enemy, although I expect the Libyan air defense to be somewhat effective, requiring some dedicated suppression. We have to keep a close eye on the 2nd Echelon along the Gabes-Medinine corridor, so I have to maintain surveillance on Route 1.
Enemy COA |
Friendly COA 2 |
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(g) (U) Libyan Courses of Action (COAs) 1 (U) Most Likely COA. Intent is to retain oil fields for as long as possible as a bargaining chip while simultaneously inflicting maximum casualties on US forces to erode US domestic support. 1st Echelon forces will defend the Mezzouna Oil Field in strength from prepared positions making maximum use of minefields and obstacles. 1st Echelon forces will retain the ability to withdraw, however the focus will be on maintaining a presence in the vicinity of (IVO) the oil fields for as long as possible. A second defensive belt, comprising 2nd Echelon forces, is centered on the Gabes-Medinine corridor, and will provide support to withdrawing 1st Echelon forces and form the base from which to commence a delaying retrograde action to the Libyan border. Indigenous insurgent groups will be encouraged to support Libyan operations by harassing Coalition Lines of Communications (LOCs) and vulnerable targets in rear areas. Insurgent actions will be supported by Libyan Special Operations Forces (SOF) elements and stay behind WOG elements. Authority for use of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) remains with the Chief of State; likely triggers are threat of destruction of the WOG, and/or threat of invasion of Libya by US forces. 2 (U) Most Dangerous COA. Intent is for a protracted and deliberate campaign to inflict maximum casualties to erode US domestic support and resolve diplomatic negotiations on terms favorable to Libya that include unrestricted rights to the Mezzouna oil fields. 2nd Echelon (-) will occupy prepared defensive positions IVO Mezzouna Oil Field to delay US forces, however they will not become decisively engaged and will, on order, withdraw to a second defensive belt IVO Medinine. 1st Echelon, as the main effort, will close the Gabes gap and defend from prepared positions IVO Gabes, enhancing the natural canalizing features of the Gabes-Medinine corridor with minefields and obstacles, to inflict significant casualties on advancing US forces. Arty and Air Defense Regiments will be massed for maximum effect in support of the main defensive battle. Dismounted Motor Rifle brigades will be tasked with conducting unconventional warfare operations to support Libyan SOF elements, to harass extended Coalition LOCs, destroy vulnerable targets, and foment and coordinate a deliberate indigenous insurgency campaign to undermine US efforts and Tunisian efforts. Authority for use of WMD remains with the Chief of State; likely triggers are threat of destruction of the WOG, and/or threat of invasion of Libya by US forces. |
COA 2, PHASE III STAGE C: DECISIVE OPERATIONS Purpose: Defeat and expel enemy from GoT. DEEP Operations: ACE (supporting effort 1) T1: Defeat C2, ADA, armor, troop concentrations P1: To expedite movement of ground forces. T2: Conduct armed recce along LOCs.. P2: To keep LOCs open. CLOSE Operations: 1AD (main effort) T1: Attack south in zone secure MEF Objective 1. P1: To secure Mezzouna Oilfield. T2: Continue attack to PL BLUE. P2: To continue to defeat and dislodge enemy. 2MARDIV and Tunisian brigades (supporting effort 2 and 3 respectively) T1: Follow in support, clearing bypassed forces and prepare to conduct FPOL with the ME at PL BLUE. P1: To sustain expulsion of the enemy while pushing forward. 2MEB (supporting effort 4) T1: Conduct an amphibious assault IVO Gabes and establish blocking position oriented north. P1: To isolate and destroy the WOG 1st Echelon. REAR Operations: MLG (supporting effort 5) T1: Secure LOCs and conduct resupply IVO PL BLUE. P1: Perform forward sustainment ops. Endstate: Mezzouna Oilfield secure, 2MARDIV prepared to conduct FPOL through 1AD and continue attack south. |