CHAPTER III.
(September 11th, 1914).
STRATEGIC AND TACTICAL USES OF THE AERONAUTICAL ARM. AIRCAFT AS VULNERABLE TO GUN-FIRE. ARMOUR AND ALTITUDE AS MEANS OF DEFENCE.
§ 8. Strategic and Tactical Uses of the Aeronautical Arm. In the present distribution of the cavalry Arm, the distinction between the strategic and tactical uses of cavalry is clearly recognised. For purely tactical purposes it is customary to attach one or more squadrons, usually a regiment of cavalry, to each infantry division. The main cavalry force on the other hand,—known as the independent cavalry,—constitutes a separate command, taking general instructions from the headquarters staff. The independent cavalry may be engaged in operations of strategic import, as in the conduct of a reconnaissance in force, or in the execution of a wide turning or out-flanking movement, or in the countering of such a movement on the part of the enemy. Alternatively it may be employed in its tactical capacity, its full weight being thrown at some critical moment into the fighting line, it may be to attack and destroy the cavalry of the enemy, to raid and capture or put out of action his artillery, to harass him in retreat, or to convert a retreat into a rout. The divisional cavalry are, generally speaking, employed for the latter—tactical—duties only.
In a similar manner aircraft are capable of employment in duties of both strategic and tactical import, and
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