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Land Defense Today
Modern Infantry
remains an important part of a successful military, as it is still
the only type of unit that can take and hold ground. However, the
massive formations that were commonplace in the past have given way
to more modern fighting techniques. Advanced technologies assume the
role of infantry support and in many cases can replace such field
units due to their ability to exceed infantry capabilities.
These modern
defense technologies include armored fighting units such as armored
personnel carriers and battle tanks, as well as artillery and air
units. navigation
systems in some modern personnel carriers used for
both scouting and combat have seen upgrades that make these units
more reliable in the field. Precision lightweight global positioning
satellite (GPS) receivers and digital compass systems can be employed
in tactical situations, and have gained in popularity since the first
Gulf War.
Modern
digital electronic systems provide ground units with improved target
acquisition and situational awareness. Thermal imaging for operators
of these units assists in night battle scenarios, and missile countermeasures
have proved effective against first-generation wire-guided missiles.
Modern
battle tanks offer the most advanced armor to battlefield combatants
and have proven their durability in modern warfare. Composites of
steel and ceramic are commonly used to construct armor and some units
have seen upgrades of depleted uranium, which provide dramatic improvements
against anti-tank weaponry, the only down-side of which is added weight.
Attachments such as mine plows clear the way for troops, and navigation
systems successfully coordinate battlefield positions.
Fixed
wing gunships provide further support to ground infantry. These units
are also heavily armored for close ground support and house munitions
specifically suited for this type of battle. Digitally linked navigation
systems and Night Vision Imaging Systems (NVIS) make these units deadly
at any time of day, with precision accuracy.
Artillery
remains an important aspect of land defense and includes mortars,
field guns and rockets, among others. One of the most important aspects
of artillery is indirect fire, which is not seeing the target through
the sights of the weapon. Modern artillery maximizes its potential
through the use of firing data, and predicted firing methods factor
in important aspects such as wind direction and speed, air temperature
and density.
It
is these modern defense technological breakthroughs that streamline
battlefield operations and, most importantly, protect infantry units,
cutting down on casualties. Future breakthroughs will come in the
form of even more advanced armors and munitions capabilities. These
units will provide protection on land, no matter where the battle
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Land 
