What is the fundamental definition of a military raid, also known as depredation?

A military raid, or depredation, is a specific type of military tactic or operational warfare characterized as a 'smash and grab' mission. Unlike other military operations, raiders do not aim to capture and hold a location; instead, they quickly withdraw to a previously secured position before enemy forces can mount a coordinated response or counter-attack. This tactic emphasizes speed and agility over sustained occupation.

What are the key characteristics that define a raiding group in military operations?

Raiding groups are typically lightly equipped and supported, which enables them to travel swiftly but also means they are generally unable to hold ground for extended periods. These groups may consist of combatants specifically trained in raiding tactics, such as commandos, or they can be regular troops assigned to a special mission. The emphasis is on rapid execution and withdrawal.

In what type of warfare are raiding tactics frequently employed?

Raiding tactics are often a standard component of irregular warfare. This includes their use by various non-conventional forces such as tribal warriors, guerrilla fighters, or other irregular military units. Irregular warfare often involves smaller, more agile units operating against a larger, more conventional force.

What are the primary objectives or purposes that a military raid aims to achieve?

The purposes of a military raid are diverse and strategic. They can include demoralizing, confusing, or exhausting the enemy, destroying specific military or economic assets, freeing prisoners of war (POWs), capturing enemy soldiers for interrogation, killing or capturing specific key personnel, or gathering vital intelligence. These objectives are typically achieved through swift, targeted actions.

Can you provide an example of a large-scale raid mentioned in the source material?

Yes, the Sullivan Expedition is cited as an example of a large-scale raid. This historical military campaign involved a significant number of troops and resources, demonstrating that raids are not always limited to small unit actions. Such expeditions often aimed to disrupt enemy infrastructure and morale over a wide area.

How did the Islamic prophet Muhammad utilize raiding tactics during his era?

The Islamic prophet Muhammad frequently employed raiding tactics, beginning with caravan raids. His first successful raid was the Nakhla raid in January 624, which aimed to attack a Quraysh caravan and gather intelligence. These early raids were crucial for intelligence gathering and disrupting enemy supply lines.

What was the outcome of the Invasion of Thi Amr, an event involving raiding tactics during Muhammad's era?

During the Invasion of Thi Amr, Muhammad ordered a raid on the Banu Muharib and Banu Talabah tribes based on intelligence that they were allegedly planning to raid the outskirts of Medina. This raid resulted in one person being captured by the Muslim forces. It demonstrates a preemptive use of raiding to counter perceived threats.

Describe the events and outcome of the First Raid on Banu Thalabah in August 627.

In August 627, Muhammad ordered the First Raid on Banu Thalabah. However, the tribe was aware of the impending attack and ambushed Muhammad ibn Maslamah's men while they were preparing to sleep. After a brief resistance, 100 Banu Thalabah warriors killed all of Muhammad ibn Maslamah's men, though he survived by feigning death and was later assisted back to Medina. This particular raid was unsuccessful for the Muslim forces.

What does the image caption 'Raid by Kurdish tribal warriors in the 19th century' illustrate about land raids?

The image caption references a 19th-century raid conducted by Kurdish tribal warriors, which visually represents the historical practice of land-based raiding by irregular forces. This highlights the enduring nature of raiding as a tactic used by various groups, often for territorial control or resource acquisition.

How prevalent was small-scale raiding warfare in Western European warfare during the Middle Ages?

Small-scale raiding warfare was a common and significant aspect of Western European warfare during the Middle Ages. Professional soldiers frequently spent their time engaged in 'little war,' which involved either carrying out raids or defending against them. This type of warfare was often focused on localized objectives rather than large-scale pitched battles.

What was a 'chevauchée' and when was it particularly popular in Medieval Europe?

A 'chevauchée' was a mounted raid, a style of warfare particularly popular during the Hundred Years War in Medieval Europe. These raids involved mounted forces moving quickly through enemy territory, often to devastate regions and disrupt the enemy's economy and morale. They could vary greatly in size and scope.

What made the Black Prince's chevauchée in Southern France in 1355 particularly notable?

The Black Prince's chevauchée in Southern France in 1355 was notable not only for its success and extensive scope, devastating entire regions, but also because the raiders deliberately captured records. This was done to conduct a post-operational analysis of the raid's impact on the enemy's economy, indicating a sophisticated approach to military assessment. This early form of intelligence gathering helped evaluate the effectiveness of their destructive actions.

How did raids contribute to the development of operational level warfare in the Soviet Army?

In the operational level of war, raids served as precursors to the development of Operational Manoeuvre Groups in the Soviet Army as early as the 1930s. This suggests that the principles of rapid penetration and disruption inherent in raiding were adapted and scaled up for larger, mechanized formations. Operational Manoeuvre Groups were designed to exploit breakthroughs and operate deep within enemy territory.

When did the Comanche Wars begin and what was the extent of Comanche raiding power?

The Comanche Wars began in 1706 with raids by Comanche warriors on Spanish colonies in New Spain and continued until 1875. Comanche power reached its peak in the 1840s, during which they conducted large-scale raids hundreds of miles into Mexico, reaching as far south as Querétaro, while simultaneously engaging in warfare against settlers in Texas. These raids were a significant factor in regional conflicts.

Which indigenous Brazilian peoples are documented to have carried out long-distance raids across the interior of Brazil?

It is documented that large war parties of the Bororo, Kayapo, Munduruku, Guaraní, and Tupi peoples carried out long-distance raids across the interior of Brazil. These raids were a part of their historical inter-tribal relations and resource acquisition strategies. Such expeditions often involved significant logistical challenges due to the vast and diverse terrain of Brazil.

What significant event involving Mapuche raiding occurred in 1872 and what was its consequence?

In 1872, the Mapuche leader Calfucurá led 6,000 warriors in an attack on several cities in Argentina. These large-scale raids served as a catalyst for the Argentine government to launch the 'Conquest of the Desert,' a military campaign aimed at asserting control over Patagonia and the Pampas. This demonstrates how raiding could provoke major military responses.

What does the image caption 'Mapuche raid led by Calfucurá' depict?

The image caption refers to a Mapuche raid, specifically a 'Malón,' led by Calfucurá, visually representing a historical instance of indigenous raiding in South America. These 'Malones' were often large-scale incursions by Mapuche warriors into territories settled by Europeans or other indigenous groups, typically to acquire livestock, goods, and captives.

What does the image caption 'Circassian strike on a Russian military fort in the Caucasus, 1840' illustrate?

The image caption depicts a Circassian strike on a Russian military fort in the Caucasus in 1840, illustrating a historical example of a land raid against a fortified position. This highlights the use of raiding tactics in conflicts between indigenous groups and expanding empires, often involving surprise attacks on military installations.

When did seaborne raiding first become known, and who were notable early practitioners?

Seaborne raiding was known as early as the time of the Pharaohs. The shipborne forces of the Sea Peoples were notable early practitioners, causing significant disruption to the economies of the eastern Mediterranean. These groups were known for their maritime mobility and their ability to launch sudden attacks on coastal settlements.

In pre-colonial Philippines, what were the terms for sea raids and land wars, and what was their regularity?

In pre-colonial thalassocracies of the Philippines, sea raids were known as 'mangayaw' and land wars as 'mangubat.' These were regular seasonal activities conducted by warring polities. This cyclical nature of conflict was often tied to agricultural seasons or resource availability.

What were the main purposes of sea raids in pre-colonial Philippines?

The main purposes of sea raids in pre-colonial Philippines were to gain prestige in combat, to pillage goods and resources, and to capture hostages. These objectives were intertwined with social status and economic gain within the warring communities. Capturing individuals could lead to ransom or temporary servitude, adding to the wealth and influence of the raiding party.

How did the noble and warrior castes participate in pre-colonial Philippine raids?

Participating in or defending against these raids was considered a part of the duties for both the noble ('maginoo') and warrior castes (such as the 'timawa' and 'maharlika') in pre-colonial Philippines. This indicates that military prowess and involvement in raiding were integral to their social roles and status. Success in these endeavors often enhanced their standing within the community.

What cultural practice in pre-colonial Philippines recorded participation and prowess in raids?

The widespread practice of full-body tattooing, known as 'batok,' in pre-colonial Philippines served to record participation and prowess in raids. These tattoos were not merely decorative but were significant markers of a warrior's achievements and status. The more extensive and intricate the tattoos, the greater the warrior's reputation.

What was the preferred defensive strategy for coastal communities in pre-colonial Philippines against sea raids?

For coastal communities in pre-colonial Philippines, when a raid was spotted, the preferred defensive strategy was to meet the attackers at sea in ship-to-ship combat, known as 'bangga,' rather than engaging them on land. This proactive approach aimed to prevent the raiders from landing and causing destruction ashore. Naval engagements were a critical aspect of their defense.

What were the strict codes of conduct regarding the treatment of captives during pre-colonial Philippine raids?

During pre-colonial Philippine raids, strict codes of conduct governed the treatment of captives. Individuals who surrendered were spared, with the expectation that they would either be ransomed or serve under temporary indentured servitude as 'alipin' before being set free. Killing a captive was strictly prohibited, and anyone who did so was required to pay their value or risk becoming an 'alipin' themselves. Higher-ranked captives were generally treated well, as they were valuable for ransom by their relatives.

What does the image caption 'A karakoa, a large pre-colonial Visayan warship used for seaborne raids in the Philippines (c. 1711)' describe?

The image caption describes a 'karakoa,' which was a large pre-colonial Visayan warship utilized for conducting seaborne raids in the Philippines around 1711. These vessels were essential for the 'mangayaw' raids, allowing warriors to travel across seas for combat, pillaging, and capturing hostages. The karakoa was a testament to the advanced maritime technology of the time.

What does the image caption 'A lanong, an Iranun warship used for piracy and raids in the Sulu Sea, mainly for slaves (c. 1890)' illustrate?

The image caption illustrates a 'lanong,' an Iranun warship used for piracy and raids in the Sulu Sea around 1890, primarily for the purpose of capturing slaves. This highlights a specific historical context where seaborne raiding was linked to the slave trade, demonstrating the varied motivations and consequences of such military actions. The lanong was a formidable vessel designed for long-distance raiding.

What does the image caption 'The Oseberg Ship, a Viking karve longship' signify in the context of seaborne raids?

The image caption references the Oseberg Ship, a Viking 'karve' longship, which represents the type of vessel used by Viking raiders from Scandinavia. These longships were crucial for their ability to attack coastal and riverside targets across the British Isles, France, and Spain during the early Middle Ages. The karve's design allowed for both speed and shallow-water navigation, making it ideal for raiding.

How did Viking raiders from Scandinavia impact the British Isles, France, and Spain in the early Middle Ages?

In the early Middle Ages, Viking raiders from Scandinavia launched attacks on the British Isles, France, and Spain, targeting coastal and riverside areas. Much of this raiding was private initiative, involving a few ships primarily for loot. However, larger fleets also participated, often with the intent of extorting protection money, known as 'Danegeld,' in addition to looting and pillaging. Their swift and unpredictable attacks caused widespread fear and economic disruption.

Did naval raiding cease after the decline of the Viking threat in the 11th century?

No, naval raiding did not cease with the decline of the Viking threat in the 11th century. It continued to be a common element of medieval naval warfare. This indicates that the strategic value of surprise attacks from the sea remained relevant for centuries. Naval powers continued to employ raiding to disrupt enemy trade, coastal infrastructure, and morale.

Who were some notable privateers involved in extensive naval raiding during the Hundred Years War?

During the Hundred Years War, extensive naval raiding was carried out by all sides, often involving privateers. Notable figures included John Hawley of Dartmouth and the Castilian Pero Niño. Privateers were essentially private individuals or ships authorized by a government to attack foreign shipping during wartime, acting as a form of sanctioned piracy.

What role did galley raiding play in the Mediterranean during the Middle Ages and Renaissance?

In the Mediterranean, raiding using oared galleys was common throughout the Middle Ages and extended into the Renaissance. It was a particularly prominent feature of the wars between the Christian powers and the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century. Galleys, with their ability to operate in coastal waters and their reliance on oars, were well-suited for swift, localized attacks and amphibious landings.

How did raiding form a major component of English naval strategy during the Elizabethan era?

Raiding constituted a major component of English naval strategy during the Elizabethan era, particularly through attacks on Spanish possessions in the New World. A significant example was Sir Francis Drake's major raid on Cadiz in 1587, which aimed to destroy shipping being assembled for the Spanish Armada. These raids were designed to disrupt enemy preparations and seize valuable resources.

Which notable raids were executed by the Dutch during the Anglo-Dutch Wars?

During the Anglo-Dutch Wars, the Dutch executed two notable raids: the Raid on the Medway during the Second Anglo-Dutch War and the Dutch Raid on North America during the Third Anglo-Dutch War. These operations demonstrated the Dutch Republic's naval power and its willingness to project force against its English rivals. The Raid on the Medway, in particular, was a highly successful and humiliating blow to the English navy.

What was the purpose of the British Combined Operations Headquarters during the Second World War?

During the Second World War, the British established the Combined Operations Headquarters with the purpose of organizing harassing raids against German forces in Europe. This organization was instrumental in developing and coordinating amphibious and commando operations, aiming to tie down German resources and gather intelligence. It played a crucial role in preparing for larger invasions.

What was the outcome of Operation Ambassador, the first operation conducted by a 'commando' formation?

Operation Ambassador, the first operation conducted by a 'commando' formation in July 1940, was a small-scale operation that ultimately resulted in negligible success. This early commando raid served as a learning experience for future, more effective operations. It highlighted the challenges of conducting such specialized missions.

Which major raid was launched by the British in March 1941 against the Lofoten Islands?

In March 1941, the British launched Operation Claymore, a major raid against the Lofoten Islands. This operation was one of the early successes for British commandos, demonstrating the potential of such targeted strikes to disrupt enemy operations and boost Allied morale. The Lofoten Islands were strategically important for German shipping.

Can you name some small-scale and large-scale raids undertaken by the British during the Second World War?

During the Second World War, small-scale raids included operations like Project Opossum, undertaken by Z Special Unit against the Japanese in the Pacific. Larger-scale raids included Operation Chariot, a raid on Saint-Nazaire, and the Dieppe Raid, which involved approximately 6,000 soldiers, over 200 ships, and 74 squadrons of aircraft, intended to capture and hold Dieppe long enough to cause significant destruction to the port. These operations varied greatly in their objectives and resources.

What types of troops were used for air-landed raids, and what modern technology offers a superior method of transportation?

For air-landed raids, paratroopers and glider-borne troops have historically been used. In the modern era, the helicopter offers a superior method of raid transportation, allowing for both insertion and extraction of troops. However, this advantage comes at the cost of increased noise, which can compromise surprise. Air-landed operations aim to rapidly deploy forces behind enemy lines.

Provide examples of air-landed raids undertaken during the Second World War.

During the Second World War, several air-landed raids were undertaken. These include the German glider-borne raid on Fort Eben-Emael in Belgium in 1940, and the British Operation Colossus in Italy in 1941 and Operation Biting in France in 1942. These operations showcased the innovative use of airborne forces to achieve surprise and specific tactical objectives. Fort Eben-Emael was a particularly strong fortress, and its capture by glider troops was a significant early success for the Germans.

How did the Royal Air Force define the term 'raid' during the Second World War?

During the Second World War, the Royal Air Force (RAF) used the term 'raid' to refer to an air attack. This definition encompassed attacks by a single aircraft or multiple squadrons against various ground targets and defending aircraft. The RAF's use of 'raid' specifically implied a planned aerial operation, distinguishing it from spontaneous engagements or routine patrols. It was a term used for strategic bombing missions.

What is 'Direct action (military)' in the context of military operations?

Direct action (military) refers to short-duration strikes and other small-scale offensive actions conducted by special operations forces to seize, destroy, capture, recover, or inflict damage on designated personnel or material. It is a tactical application of force that aligns with the swift, targeted nature of a raid. This type of action is often undertaken when a larger conventional attack is not feasible or desirable.

What are 'Hit-and-run tactics' and how do they relate to military raids?

Hit-and-run tactics involve attacking an enemy quickly and then retreating immediately, minimizing exposure to counter-attack. This approach is intrinsically linked to military raids, as raids are defined by their swift execution and rapid withdrawal, making hit-and-run a core component of their operational methodology. These tactics are often used by smaller forces against larger, less mobile adversaries.

What are 'Infiltration tactics' and how might they be used in a raid?

Infiltration tactics involve moving forces through or into an area or territory occupied by friendly or enemy troops or organizations, usually without being detected. In the context of a raid, infiltration would be used to secretly approach the target, allowing the raiding party to achieve surprise and execute their mission before the enemy can react. This stealthy approach is crucial for the success of many raids.

What is 'Trench raiding' and when was it commonly employed?

Trench raiding refers to small-scale attacks on enemy trenches, typically conducted under the cover of darkness, to gather intelligence, capture prisoners, or harass the enemy. This tactic was commonly employed during trench warfare, particularly in World War I, where static front lines made large-scale offensives difficult. Trench raids were dangerous but vital for maintaining pressure on the enemy and gathering information about their dispositions.

What is the significance of the 'List of expeditions of Muhammad' in understanding military raids?

The 'List of expeditions of Muhammad' is significant because it provides a detailed historical record of the numerous military campaigns and raids led by the Islamic prophet Muhammad. This list helps illustrate the frequent and varied application of raiding tactics in early Islamic history, offering specific examples of their objectives and outcomes. It serves as a historical case study for the use of raids.

What is 'Tribal warfare' and how does it often involve raiding?

Tribal warfare refers to conflicts between different tribal groups, often characterized by localized, intermittent violence. Raiding is a common feature of tribal warfare, frequently undertaken for reasons such as acquiring resources, livestock, or captives, asserting dominance, or seeking revenge. These raids are typically conducted by small, mobile groups and are integral to the social and political dynamics of tribal societies.

Raid Military Wiki: Tactical Incursions: A Scholarly Examination of Military Raids

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The Raid Concept

Defining a Military Raid

A military raid, often termed "depredation," represents a distinct military tactic or a form of operational warfare characterized by a "smash and grab" methodology. Its essence lies in executing a specific mission without the intent of capturing and holding territory. Instead, raiding forces prioritize swift withdrawal to a secure, previously defended position before enemy forces can mount a coordinated response or counter-attack. This necessitates rapid movement and typically involves forces that are too lightly equipped or supported for sustained positional warfare.

Specialized vs. Regular Forces

Raiding operations can be conducted by combatants specifically trained for such tactics, commonly known as commandos or special forces. Alternatively, a raid can be a special mission assigned to any regular military unit. This flexibility underscores the tactical utility of raids across various military contexts. In the realm of irregular warfare, raiding is frequently a standard tactic employed by warriors, guerrilla fighters, and other non-conventional military forces, leveraging their agility and knowledge of terrain.

Distinguishing Raids from Occupation

A critical distinction of a raid is its temporary nature. Unlike a conventional offensive aimed at territorial gain or prolonged engagement, a raid's success is measured by the accomplishment of its immediate objective and the safe extraction of the raiding party. This operational philosophy allows for high-impact actions with minimal long-term commitment of resources, making it a valuable tool in asymmetric conflicts or when facing a numerically superior adversary.

Key Objectives

Psychological Warfare

One primary objective of a raid is to inflict psychological damage on the adversary. This can manifest as demoralizing, confusing, or exhausting the enemy forces and population. By striking unexpectedly and retreating swiftly, raiders can create a pervasive sense of insecurity, forcing the enemy to divert resources to defense across a wider area, thereby diluting their combat power and disrupting their morale.

Destruction of Assets

Raids are frequently employed to destroy specific targets of military or economic significance. This could include critical infrastructure, supply depots, communication hubs, or high-value equipment. The aim is to degrade the enemy's capacity to wage war or sustain their operations, often with a disproportionate impact relative to the size of the raiding force.

Intelligence & Personnel Capture

A crucial purpose of many raids is to gather vital intelligence. This can involve capturing enemy soldiers for interrogation, seizing documents, or conducting reconnaissance of enemy positions and capabilities. Additionally, raids may be executed to kill or capture specific key personnel, such as high-ranking officers or scientists, whose removal could significantly impact enemy operations or leadership.

Prisoner Liberation

While less common, raids can also be specifically designed to liberate prisoners of war (POWs) or other detained individuals. These operations are often high-risk and require meticulous planning and execution, as the success hinges not only on reaching the target but also on safely extracting the rescued personnel.

Land Raids

Historical Precedents

Land-based raiding tactics have a long and varied history, employed across diverse cultures and eras. From ancient skirmishes to modern special operations, the principles of swift penetration, objective achievement, and rapid withdrawal have remained constant.

Arabia during Muhammad's Era

The Islamic prophet Muhammad frequently utilized raiding tactics. Early examples include the caravan raids, with the Nakhla raid in January 624 being a notable success aimed at attacking a Quraysh caravan and gathering intelligence.^[2]^[3]
The Invasion of Thi Amr saw a raid ordered against the Banu Muharib and Banu Talabah tribes based on intelligence of their alleged intent to raid Medina's outskirts, resulting in one capture.^[6]
An unsuccessful operation, the First Raid on Banu Thalabah in August 627, saw the raiding party ambushed, with nearly all members killed, highlighting the inherent risks of such missions.^[10]

Medieval Europe

Small-scale raiding, often referred to as "little war," was a common feature of Western European warfare during the Middle Ages.^[11]
The chevauchée, a mounted raid, was particularly prevalent during the Hundred Years' War. These varied from small groups to armies of thousands, devastating entire regions. A notable example is the Black Prince's chevauchée in Southern France in 1355, where records were deliberately captured for post-operational economic impact analysis.^[12]

Large-Scale Incursions

While often associated with smaller units, raids can also be conducted on a larger scale, impacting operational levels of war. These larger operations often serve as precursors to broader strategic developments.

In the Soviet Army of the 1930s, large-scale raids were instrumental in the development of Operational Manoeuvre Groups, demonstrating their potential for deep penetration and disruption.^[13]
The Comanche Wars (1706-1875) featured extensive raids by Comanche warriors into Spanish colonies and later deep into Mexico, sometimes hundreds of miles, reaching as far as Querétaro, 1,400 kilometers south of their starting points in Texas.^[14]
Indigenous groups in Brazil, including the Bororo, Kayapo, Munduruku, Guaraní, and Tupi people, conducted long-distance raids across the interior of the country.^[15]
In 1872, the Mapuche leader Calfucurá led 6,000 warriors in attacks on several Argentine cities, an event that significantly contributed to the government's decision to launch the "Conquest of the Desert."

Seaborne Raids

Maritime Depredations

Raiding from the sea has been a potent military tactic since antiquity, leveraging naval mobility to strike vulnerable coastal and riverine targets. These operations have historically caused significant economic and social disruption.

Ancient and Pre-Colonial Eras

The Sea Peoples, in the time of the Pharaohs, utilized shipborne forces to conduct raids that severely disrupted the economies of the eastern Mediterranean.^[16]
In the pre-colonial Philippines, sea raids (mangayaw) and land wars (mangubat) were seasonal activities among warring polities, particularly the Visayans. These raids aimed to gain prestige, pillage, and capture hostages. A strict code of conduct governed the treatment of captives, who were often ransomed or subjected to temporary indentured servitude.^[16]^[17]^[18]

Medieval and Early Modern Naval Warfare

During the early Middle Ages, Viking raiders from Scandinavia launched attacks on the British Isles, France, and Spain, targeting coastal and riverside communities for loot and often extorting protection money, known as Danegeld.^[19]
Naval raiding remained a common feature throughout the Middle Ages, with extensive operations conducted by all sides during the Hundred Years' War, often involving privateers.^[20]
In the Mediterranean, oared galleys were frequently used for raiding from the Middle Ages into the Renaissance, notably during the 16th-century conflicts between Christian powers and the Ottoman Empire.^[21]
The Elizabethan era saw raiding as a major component of English naval strategy, with attacks on Spanish possessions in the New World. Sir Francis Drake's major raid on Cadiz in 1587 aimed to destroy shipping assembled for the Spanish Armada.^[22]
The Dutch also executed significant seaborne raids, such as the Raid on the Medway during the Second Anglo-Dutch War and the Dutch Raid on North America during the Third Anglo-Dutch War.

Modern Naval Raids

The 20th century, particularly World War II, saw the evolution of seaborne raids into highly organized, combined operations, often involving specialized commando units.

During World War II, the British established the Combined Operations Headquarters to orchestrate harassing raids against German forces in Europe.
Operation Ambassador (July 1940) was the first commando operation, though it achieved limited success.
Operation Claymore (March 1941) targeted the Lofoten Islands, demonstrating the potential of commando raids.^[23]
Smaller-scale operations, such as those by Z Special Unit against the Japanese in the Pacific (e.g., Project Opossum), showcased the effectiveness of specialized units.^[24]
Larger-scale operations included Operation Chariot, a raid on Saint-Nazaire, and the Dieppe Raid, which involved approximately 6,000 soldiers, over 200 ships, and 74 aircraft squadrons, aiming to inflict significant damage on the port.^[25]

Air Raids

Air-Landed Operations

The advent of air travel revolutionized raiding tactics, enabling forces to be inserted deep behind enemy lines, bypassing traditional defenses. Paratroopers and glider-borne troops became key assets for these rapid, surprise attacks.

Paratroopers and glider-borne troops have been deployed in air-landed raids, particularly for offensive counter-air missions, as demonstrated by units like the Japanese Teishin Shudan and Giretsu Kuteitai commandos.
In the modern era, helicopters offer a superior method for both insertion and extraction of raiding parties, despite the inherent noise signature.
Notable World War II air-landed raids include the German glider-borne attack on Fort Eben-Emael in Belgium in 1940,^[26] and British operations such as Operation Colossus in Italy (1941) and Operation Biting in France (1942).^[27]

Aerial Bombardment

The term "raid" also extends to aerial attacks, particularly in the context of strategic bombing, where aircraft deliver ordnance against ground targets. These operations are meticulously planned and executed to achieve specific objectives.

During World War II, the Royal Air Force (RAF) frequently used the term "raid" to describe air attacks. This encompassed operations by single aircraft or multiple squadrons against various ground targets, including those defended by enemy aircraft. It is important to distinguish an aerial "raid" from a "battle" (which refers to land, sea, or amphibious conflicts) or routine "patrols" (e.g., against U-boats) and defensive launches of carrier aircraft. Aerial raids are always characterized by their pre-planned nature and specific objectives.

Historical Evolution

Global Impact of Raiding

The history of military raids is as old as warfare itself, evolving with technology and strategic thought. From ancient tribal skirmishes to complex modern special operations, raids have consistently played a role in shaping conflicts and influencing outcomes.

The examples provided across land, sea, and air demonstrate the enduring utility of this tactical approach. Whether it's the economic disruption caused by the Sea Peoples, the psychological impact of Viking incursions, or the precision strikes of modern commandos, the core principles of rapid, targeted action remain relevant. The ability to strike swiftly and withdraw before a coordinated response can be mounted offers a significant advantage, particularly in asymmetric warfare scenarios.

Adaptation and Innovation

The evolution of raiding tactics highlights military innovation. The transition from mounted chevauchées to glider-borne assaults and helicopter insertions reflects a continuous adaptation to new technologies and operational environments. Each era has found new ways to apply the fundamental concept of a raid to achieve strategic or tactical objectives, underscoring its versatility as a military tool.

The detailed post-operational analysis conducted by the Black Prince after his 1355 chevauchée, for instance, demonstrates an early understanding of assessing the economic impact of raids, a practice that continues in modern military planning for evaluating the effectiveness of targeted strikes.

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References

The Handbook Of The SAS And Elite Forces. How The Professionals Fight And Win. Edited by Jon E. Lewis. p.312-Tactics And Techniques, Landings And Raids On Enemy Territory. Robinson Publishing Ltd 1997. ISBN 1-85487-675-9

Mubarakpuri, The Sealed Nectar, pp.128-131. (online)

DeLay, Brian. "The Wider World of the Handsome Man: Southern Plains Indians invade Mexico, 1830â1848." Journal of the Early Republic. Vol, 27, NO. 2, Spring 2007, pp. 116, 317-319, 327

A full list of references for this article are available at the Raid (military) Wikipedia page

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Tactical Incursions

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Raid Concept 💡

🎯 Defining a Military Raid

👥 Specialized vs. Regular Forces

⚖️ Distinguishing Raids from Occupation

Key Objectives ✔️

🧠 Psychological Warfare

💥 Destruction of Assets

🕵️ Intelligence & Personnel Capture

⛓️ Prisoner Liberation

Land Raids ⛰️

📜 Historical Precedents

Arabia during Muhammad's Era

Medieval Europe

масштаб Large-Scale Incursions

Seaborne Raids 🌊

⚓ Maritime Depredations

Ancient and Pre-Colonial Eras

Medieval and Early Modern Naval Warfare

🚢 Modern Naval Raids

Air Raids ✈️

🪂 Air-Landed Operations

💣 Aerial Bombardment

Historical Evolution 🕰️

🌍 Global Impact of Raiding

🔄 Adaptation and Innovation

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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The Raid Concept

Defining a Military Raid

Specialized vs. Regular Forces

Distinguishing Raids from Occupation

Key Objectives

Psychological Warfare

Destruction of Assets

Intelligence & Personnel Capture

Prisoner Liberation

Land Raids

Historical Precedents

Large-Scale Incursions

Seaborne Raids

Maritime Depredations

Modern Naval Raids

Air Raids

Air-Landed Operations

Aerial Bombardment

Historical Evolution

Global Impact of Raiding

Adaptation and Innovation

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

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References

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Disclaimer

Important Notice