Publication

This publication discusses the tactics employed in the conflict between the Mujahideen and the Soviet Union from 1978 to 1988. It addresses the implications for the US and the coalition forces against the Taliban. The author argues that geography, poor training, low morale and the asymmetric nature of the conflict significantly undermined the Soviet advantage in equipment and manpower. The paper concludes that if coalition forces avoid making the same strategic and tactical mistakes and implement a coherent counterinsurgency doctrine, western soldiers should fair better.