Box barrage
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A box barrage is a type of artillery barrage. It can be offensive or defensive, and it can move or remain stationary. The main characteristic of a box barrage is that the shells fall into a pattern roughly resembling a quadrangle surrounding an "open" area. This open area, and anything within it, is literally "boxed in" by shell fire, hence the name.
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[edit] Offensive
An offensive box barrage is one in which an enemy position is surrounded by shell fire, thus isolating and pinning down the unit(s) within. In this way, the barrage can be used to restrict the movement of enemy unit(s), prevent them from engaging attackers, limit their visibility (through the use of smoke shells), or cut them off from reinforcements, supplies, or communications.
[edit] Defensive
A defensive box barrage is one which surrounds friendly units in order to protect them from attack while they approach, secure or defend an objective. Often, the artillery will attempt to move the barrage in sync with the friendly unit(s) as it approaches its objective, thus keeping it protected.
[edit] Communications and Accuracy
As in a creeping barrage, a box barrage requires good communications between infantry and artillery units if it is to succeed, particularly if the barrage is defensive in nature. The artillery command must constantly be aware of where the friendly forces are located so as to avoid friendly-fire casualties. For the same reason, the accuracy of the shells and guns are of paramount importance.
[edit] Historical Origins
Opinions are divided on the first ever battlefield implementation of the the box barrage. Traditional beliefs maintain that it was first used in World War I, during the High Wood Offensive at the Battle of the Somme, and also at the Third Battle of Ypres (Passchendale). Another school of opinion pertains to origins at the Battle of Gettysburg when utilised by the Confederate army as part of a flanking maneuver.
