What advantage does 'combined arms' provide in military operations?

The concept of 'combined arms' refers to the coordinated use of different military capabilities, such as infantry, armor, artillery, aviation, and other supporting elements, in a complementary manner. This approach creates a multi-faceted threat that is inherently difficult for the enemy to counter, as it targets various vulnerabilities simultaneously.

When forces utilize combined arms, they exploit the strengths of each branch or element while compensating for their weaknesses. For instance, while armored units may engage enemy forces directly, artillery can suppress enemy positions, and aviation can provide air support and reconnaissance. This integration allows for attacks from multiple vectors—ground, air, and often electronic—making it challenging for an opponent to defend against all threats at once.

This advantage is crucial in shaping the battlefield. By forcing the enemy to respond to diverse and simultaneous threats, the attacking force can disrupt enemy command and control, create confusion, and prosecute an offensive more effectively. This leads to increased likelihood of success in achieving military objectives compared to operations that rely on just one type of force or capability.