NGP85 "81: Better Dead than Red v1.1"

[JDR Dragoon]

091600ZMay1981

FROM: COMAFCENT
TO: COMCENTAG

1. Situation:

A. Enemy Forces:

WAPA forces estimated at between 20-25 divisions in 4-5 armies have assembled opposite the northern parts of NATOs CENTAG.

WAPA forces have moved out from their barracks and assembly areas and started to move towards the border. It is estimated that they will reach their jump-off positions within the next 24-36 hours. It must be expected that these units will be supported by airmobile and parachute units plus infiltrators working behind our lines. In addition heavy enemy air activity must be expected with both rotary and fixed wing assets present.

Enemy most likely course of action will be to attack with 3-4 armies (á 5 divisions each approximately), supported by airborne and airmobile units, in their first echelon against the northern 3 corps of CENTAG. This to be followed up by a second echelon of 1-2 armies (á 5 armies each aprox.). Enemy most dangerous COA will be to rupture one or more of NATOs frontline corps, exploiting the breach and pushing on to the Rhine river and beyond.

B. Friendly Forces:

It is the intent of SACEUR that NATO defends as far forwards as possible in accordance with the strategy of "Forward Defence".

CENTAG will be bordered by NORTHAG along the determined boundary line north of Kassel and will have its southern flank anchored on the Austrian border. Neighbouring units to the far south is SOUTHAG in northern Italy. CENTAG will be supported by tactical aircraft of 4. ATAF and US Special Forces.

C. Attachments/Detachments.

CENTAG will be reinforced with planned REFORGER units plus additional reinforcements flown in from CONUS. In addition the French 1st Army (3 corps) is expected to pass under the control of CENTAG following transfer of control.



2. Mission

NATO must defend as far forwards as possible, only yielding ground grudgingly and vigorously try to regain lost ground through counterattacks. GDP positions must be reached and prepared no later than 100100ZMay 1981 in order to be in a position to deter WAPA from starting aggression by an overwhelming show of NATO force and solidarity.


3. Execution

CENTAG Corps must move their units into their respective sectors and create defensive positions as per the GDP. Each corps must create a maneuver reserve of at least divisions strenght in order to close down any enemy penetrations by vigorous counterattacks and offensive action. Following transfer of control, the French 1st army and the Canadian 4th Brigade Group will act as a final uncommitted maneuver reserve behind CENTAGs frontline Corps.

It is my intent to stop WAPA as far forward as possible in order to prevent their further advance into the industrial and population centers of West Germany. Air assets will be especially dedicated to interdicting enemy second echelon forces and attacking their artillery and headquarters. Subordinate units should plan accordingly.

4. Logistics

Units will stay in contact with their higher HQs, thus ensuring adequate service support. HQs will stay close to major roads in order to facilitate easier resupply.

5. Signals

HQs will stay as far away from observed enemies as possible in order to diminish the risk of being detected by enemy EW efforts.