Is the cold friend or enemy for soldiers in military action?

Abstract

Cold has impact to every person as on allied forces as well on enemy forces. The topicality of the study is based on the analysis of the experience of military campaigns in cold environments in the history of war and the emphasis on the importance of preventive measures that reduce the influence of low temperature as a natural environmental factor on the tactical readiness of troops. The aim of the study was analyses of cold environment impact on outcome (personnel losses) of military campaign in historical aspect, characterized the main health problems of personnel. We provided theoretical analysis of military campaigns` from ancient time till nowadays. Results of our study showed that realisation of preventative measures as well as planning and providing troops` activities in low temperature environment is one of the greatest challenges for leaders and commanders of military operations; in case of failure environmental factors played crucial role to wars` outcomes, battles` results and could lead to great disaster for military units and armies. The most important conclusion is the temperature of surrounding condition is one of essential factor for combatant’s survival, for activity of the personnel in low temperature surrounding, for combat capacity of military personnel and military unit. Timely identification of low-air temperature environment hazard slop down personnel losses in warfare. The most important conclusion stressed that assessment of cold weather, prevent and manage cold injuries allow keep combat capacity and fulfil the mission. Results of our study shown significance the effective program of military force health protection that included adequate logistic as well with nutritional supply. Commander authority in management personnel readiness is essential, physical preparedness, practical skills, and training of personnel in cold environment were important in pre-mission phase of campaign. Research results shown that cold (low temperature) impact as environmental risk factor must be identified and carefully assessed before military action.