The Other Side of the Mountain: Mujahideen ... - Tribal Analysis Center

Chapter 2, Vignette 9 Page 99
eight days stripping all the ammunition, weapons and supplies out of
the bases and outposts. We hauled the spoils of war into the mountains.
We captured about 100 weapons and an enormous amount of
ammunition. At the end of our eight days, I withdrew my detachment
and we returned to our base. I lost six KIA and 18 WIA or about 30%
of my force. Enemy losses were heavier and included some 50 killed or
wounded and 24 soldiers captured.
COMMENTARY: The terrain played a major role in shaping the battle.
The Soviets/DRA controlled the ribbon of highway running through a
narrow gorge, while the Mujahideen controlled the surrounding mountains
whenever they wanted to. The Mujahideen had the freedom to
choose the time and place to raid dozens of security outposts sprinkled
along the treacherous highway snaking through the very narrow
canyon in Mahipar and the Wreshmin Tangay. In the Wreshmin
Tangay, virtually all Mujahideen groups habitually first attacked the
two main bridges i.e. Dabili and Dargo. Then, after destroying the
bridges, they would attack the rest of the security posts from both
ends. This method proved to be the most effective one given the terrain,
minefields, enemy dispositions and Mujahideen capabilities.