ARMORED WARFARE Meaning and
Definition
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Armored warfare refers to the military strategy and tactics that involve the use of armored vehicles, such as tanks, in combat operations. It is a type of warfare that emphasizes the use of heavily armored and mechanized units to achieve tactical and strategic objectives on the battlefield.
Armored warfare combines the use of firepower, protection, and mobility to gain an advantage over the enemy. Tanks and other armored vehicles are equipped with powerful cannons, machine guns, and other weapons systems, allowing them to engage targets both near and far. Additionally, they are constructed with heavy armor plating to protect the crew and vital components from enemy fire.
The concept of armored warfare emerged during World War I, with the development of tanks as a means of overcoming the stalemate of trench warfare. It gained significant prominence during World War II, where tanks played a crucial role in battles such as the Battle of Kursk and the Normandy Invasion.
Modern armored warfare involves the integration of various combat units, including infantry, artillery, and air support, to form combined arms formations. These formations allow for a coordinated and balanced approach to combat, with armored vehicles acting as the spearhead of offensives and providing firepower and protection to infantry forces.
Armored warfare has continued to evolve with advancements in technology, including the development of advanced sensors, communication systems, and more powerful armament. It remains a critical component of military operations, allowing for the projection of force and the achievement of objectives in both offensive and defensive scenarios.
Etymology of ARMORED WARFARE
The term "armored warfare" is a combination of the words "armored" and "warfare". Let's explore the etymology of these two words:
1. Armored:
The word "armored" is derived from the Middle English word "armure", which came from the Old French word "armure" meaning "armor" or "protective covering". This Old French term has its roots in the Latin word "armatura", which means "equipment" or "armor". The Latin word is derived from the root word "arma", meaning "weapons" or "tools". Over time, "armored" evolved to refer to vehicles, particularly military vehicles, that are heavily protected with armor.
2. Warfare:
The word "warfare" comes from the Old English term "wyrre", which means "war" or "combat". This Old English word later influenced the Middle English term "warfare".
