Author Description

This study focuses on the need for specialist training for mountain warfare. It analyzes the special characteristics of mountain and high altitude terrain which affect conduct of military operations. It identifies the differences between low and high mountain environment.It also discusses training prerequisites with regards to physical conditioning, acclimatization, living and operating in these environments. The study uses FM 3-97.0 (Mountain Warfare Manual) as a primary reference as well as the Pakistani Army's experience in mountains of Kashmir, the Russian experience in Afghanistan and the performance of specially trained mountain troops in the Second World War including the elite German "Gebirgsjagger".