The Best Army for Mountain Warfare: A Comparative Analysis
Mountain warfare is a unique and demanding field that requires specialized training and expertise. With many countries boasting dedicated mountain warfare units, it is difficult to pinpoint a single 'best' army for such operations. However, this analysis will explore the strengths of several notable mountain warfare units, including the US 10th Mountain Division, the Swiss Defense Force, and the forces of Pakistan and India.
The US 10th Mountain Division
The United States Army has a long history of mountain warfare, with the 10th Mountain Division being a prime example. Established in 1945 during World War II, this unit has undergone significant training in mountainous terrain. Furthermore, they have a Special Forces group dedicated to navigating challenging mountainous environments.
The Swiss Defense Force
Switzerland, a country surrounded by mountainous regions, has a particularly noteworthy mountain warfare force. Due to the high-altitude nature of the terrain, much of the Swiss military has extensive experience in mountain warfare. In fact, it is reasonable to assert that no other country's troops, except for those dedicated to maritime warfare, have the same level of proficiency in this area.
Pakistan and Indian Forces
Two countries with an extensive history of fighting at high altitudes are Pakistan and India. Both have been engaged in combat conditions at altitudes ranging from 19,000 to 21,000 feet for over 30 years. This continuous engagement provides these forces with unparalleled experience in mountain warfare.
Key Operations and Exercises
Pakistani Special Forces (SSG): The SSG's detachments, such as those operating in the Force Command Northern Areas (FCNA), including the Siachen Glacier region, have been trained to navigate some of the world's most extreme mountain environments. Regular exercises and patrols in such regions demonstrate their dedication and capability in mountain warfare.
Pakistani Infantry: The Pakistani infantry's operations at Siachen, where they patrol and relieve posts at high altitudes, showcase their exceptional adaptability and endurance. These operations are crucial for maintaining control in one of the world's most challenging mountain environments.
The Italian Alpini and Mountain Artillery Divisions
Italy's Alpini divisions and Mountain Artillery divisions have a storied history in high-altitude warfare. They fought one of the highest elevation battles in history, reaching altitudes of 11,000 feet at temperatures of 62 degrees below freezing. Their operations required them to carry artillery up steep rock faces using ropes, a feat that is unparalleled in modern warfare.
Conclusion
While an army cannot be definitively labeled as the 'best' for mountain warfare, certain units and forces stand out due to their extensive training, experience, and continuous operations in such challenging environments. The Swiss Defense Force, the 10th Mountain Division, Pakistani and Indian forces, and the Italian Alpini divisions all bring unique strengths to the field of mountain warfare. In the absence of more active mountain warfare conflicts, it is challenging to determine the absolute best, but these forces remain at the forefront of specialized mountain operations.