Enemy representation
The enemy representation is the procedure in a military maneuver , in which a unit behaves like the potential enemy for training purposes. The representation of the enemy was introduced to the Prussian army in 1754.
The distinction can be reinforced by different uniforms, different vehicle paintwork or even the use of real weapons used by the potential enemy.
Enemy representation is used in both one-party and two-party exercises. Until 1945, during one-party exercises , the enemy commandos were equipped with flags to represent enemy units; In two-party exercises, one of the parties received colored helmet straps that were attached over the helmet visors (until 1914) or over the helmet brim (1915–1945). In the Bundeswehr, the enemy was usually depicted with red armbands to be worn on both upper arms when fighting on land. Enemy vehicles are marked with red textile crosses that are to be placed on all four sides. In one-party exercises, flag squads are no longer deployed, but rather the representation of the enemy by a management troop with red armbands at different locations.
The United States Air Force used the MiG-21s provided by Egypt for a while and now uses specially procured F-5s or F-16s . After the "turning point", when the Bundeswehr took over the NVA's MiG-29s , they were invited in the USA to "represent the enemy" in anti-aircraft maneuvers, and for years they fought air battles of the highest quality. Often, however, there is only a division into blue and red.
Since the enemy is fought from a distance by means of electronically supported warfare in the expected conflicts, a large part of the enemy representation is also created by ECM and ECCM during maneuvers , but hostile electromagnetic signatures should also be recognized in the exercises, especially during maneuvers of the air and naval forces. The US Navy uses a converted Douglas DC-8 especially for this purpose . The simulated enemy commands in the armed forces of the United States are called Opposing Forces .