What sort of weapons will the coalition forces deploy?
The choice of weapon will be dependent on the target, the target’s location and the required outcome. Cruise missiles can be used with pinpoint accuracy. “Smart” munitions can achieve similar results. “Dumb” bombs may be used to destroy large training camps. Surgical operations carried out by lightly armed, highly mobile forces may be used to neutralise terrorist leaders. How much of a factor is the weather and the coming winter? Winter conditions will complicate intelligence gathering, operations and logistic support. It will reduce mobility but it is not a “show stopper”. Special forces are trained to operate in any environment. The Royal Marines have specialist troops trained in Arctic and mountain warfare. Other nations have experience operating in adverse climatic conditions. The Afghan winter provides a harsh environment, but one in which most of the coalition forces are trained to operate. It may cause more problems for Bin Laden. He should not rely on the winter for protection.
