Col. Douglas Macgregor on Technology vs Experience in War
David Gornoski
Deep Dive
Why does Col. Douglas Macgregor emphasize the importance of not treating soldiers as throwaways?
Soldiers are living, breathing human beings who require time to grow, be educated, and become competent. Using them in military formations should only be for the right and good purposes, ensuring their lives are not wasted in unnecessary conflicts.
What is Col. Macgregor's view on the use of American military power in Bosnia and Kosovo?
He questions whether these interventions were necessary or aligned with vital strategic interests, suggesting that the use of American military power in these cases may not have been justified.
How does Col. Macgregor describe the role of technology in warfare?
Technology is important but not a cure-all. It can augment, improve, and extend human abilities, but it is not a substitute for the competence and training of the people using it.
What technological advantage did American tanks have over Iraqi T-72s in the Gulf War?
American tanks lacked automatic loaders but could fire two to three rounds in the time it took the T-72s to reload once. Additionally, the gyroscopic system in American tanks allowed for accurate firing on the move, and their electric gun movement system provided faster targeting.
What physical and mental qualities are required for effective tank operation in combat?
Effective tank operation demands physical fitness, intelligence, good eyesight, and extensive training. Crew members must work in sync, with the loader, gunner, and tank commander performing their roles quickly and accurately to avoid accidents and ensure success.
How does Col. Macgregor describe the psychological state of soldiers in combat?
Soldiers must disassociate from their personhood and become one with the machine, suppressing fear and vulnerability. Discipline and habit, ingrained through training, are crucial for survival and effectiveness in battle.
What does Col. Macgregor suggest to reduce casualties in military patrols?
He proposes that general officers accompany vehicular patrols every two weeks without special security. This would likely lead to the cessation of unnecessary patrols, as officers would recognize their futility and danger.
What is Col. Macgregor's opinion on the idea of transforming Iraq into a liberal democracy?
He dismisses the notion as unrealistic and insane, arguing that occupations turn soldiers into jailers and the local population into prisoners, making such a transformation impossible.
- Soldiers are not expendable; they require time to train and become competent.
- Interventions in Bosnia, Herzegovina, and Kosovo are questioned.
- Technology is important in war but not a substitute for human beings.
- Proper training and preparation are crucial for success in combat.
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