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MARS
UNMASKED

The Changing Face of Urban Operations

by Sean J. A. Edwards

Rand Arroyo Center
Santa Monica CA
2000

$15.00
98 pages

Amazon.com $15.00
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Book review
by Kevin L. Jamison, Esq. 

 

         This work updates prior works on combat in cities.  The new element of such combat is the presence of civilians.  Instead of simply obstacles to military operations, operations are often directed for or at civilian populations in built-up areas.  In recent years both the Russian and US armies have suffered heavy losses by civilians with long experience with gun ownership and hostility towards outsiders. 

          In order to reduce civilian casualties, and reduce local, domestic and international hostility, the book strongly advocates precision use of force.  While the author seems to indicate the use of "smart" weapons, the other factors presented indicate the smartest choice for city combat is a skilled rifleman.