Wybrane problemy użycia artylerii w manewrowych działaniach obronnych

The nature of contemporary defence, part of which is the high tempo and an increasing amount of activities, sets high challenges in front of field artillery. Under such conditions it is extremely difficult to ensure effective, continuous and flexible fire support to the engaged forces. The fire support has to be able to keep pace with the evolving situation and must be conducted regardless of external conditions. Such premise causes to search for solutions which enhance effectiveness of the employment of artillery. The article presents the results of research, which is contained in the scientific paper titled „The Use of Artillery in Defence Manoeuvres”. The aim of the research was to determine the role of artillery in defence manoeuvres and to indicate rational ways of employing it under current circumstances. The publication discusses the characteristics of contemporary defence, the meaning of manoeuvre and an assessment of needs and capabilities to conduct fire support missions by the artillery. Special attention was given to artillery tasks as well as the optimal use of its proper weapon systems. The meaning of coordinating artillery fire with defending troops and close air support of the air force has also been discussed. In conclusion it has been determined, that field artillery, in order to meet contemporary dynamic defence requirements, must be thoroughly modernised in various areas. The principal direction of artillery development should be the implementation of new reconnaissance capabilities, enhancement of firing range, precision and effectiveness of firing systems as well as full automatic data processing of C2 systems and fire control.