Iraq......................element of surprise?

[2dogs]

Is there is still any possibility of or advantage to the element of surprise?

Any chance this is just disinformation and we are likely to hit Iraq, oh say, tomorrow?

According to the press we need time to move more equipment and personnel into the area before we can attack Iraq- can someone tell me if that is factual or is the only reason we are holding back at this point political. It seems to this civilian that we have more than enough equipment and troops to go in whenever we want. But assuming we are waiting for the "right" moment does it help anything to keep every last man woman and child informed about what the plan is?

 

[Blackhawk]

Here's a working link: http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2002/12/29/1040511253221.html

 

[2dogs]

Thanks Blackhawk.

 

[Blackhawk]

When an enemy is on red alert awaiting an expected attack, every moment is agonizing, and when the expected attack comes, it's always a surprise.

Nevertheless, the general timing of an attack is always well known if the enemy is paying both attention and spies. The exact moment may not be known, but it doesn't make much difference.

The June 6, 1944 Allied invasion of Normandy was kept pretty much secret due to the very elaborate and well executed ruse the Allies pulled off COMBINED with the Nazi inattention and conviction that their assessment was right. But what was the surprise? An invasion? No. An attack? No. It was just the location and exact timing of the operation.

 

[PATH]

I don't think anyone is surprised now or in future as relates to Iraq.

 

[AZTOY]

Blackhawk

The June 6, 1944 Allied invasion of Normandy was kept pretty much secret due to the very elaborate and well executed ruse the Allies pulled off COMBINED with the Nazi inattention and conviction that their assessment was right. But what was the surprise? An invasion? No. An attack? No. It was just the location and exact timing of the operation.

But the Germens did not have CNN and satellite TV!

 

[Blackhawk]

But the Germens did not have CNN and satellite TV!

True, and the media could be trusted to keep secrets until their release didn't endanger our servicemen.

I don't think you'll get many arguments from those in the military in a position to know that the present day media (since Vietnam) have been the greatest sources of intelligence our enemies have had.

 

[Wakal]

Public knowledge, of course, but I can personally confirm that Intelligence Ops floors keep CNN turned on 24/7.

Sigh.



Alex

 

[Gary H]

2000 lb. bombs from a B-2 on a moonless night is a surprise and it ain't moonless on the 21st.

http://www.googol.com/moon/

 

[Bruce H]

While everyones attention iis focused on Iraq and Saddam, wouldn't a slight of hand in North Korea really work. A 1911 stuck in Kim2's nosrel makes a fine mental sight.

 

[Deadman]

According to one cynical internet columnist, due to Bush jnr's fixation about his father, the upcoming attack will probably start on Jan. 17

 

[El Tejon]

The beans and bullets will get there. It's not exactly a surprise when everyone knows that if we come, it'll be on a new moon in January or February.