A discussion of the war-time use of AA artillery by the Germans falls into two general classifications: use with the field forces and use in defense of Germany and other static rear-area objectives. In this classification, however, it should be remembered that German tactical doctrine holds that organizations and weapons should not be placed in a purely defensive role except where the tactical situation absolutely demands such disposition. Wherever possible, an offensive plan will always take precedence over a plan which is purely defensive. Thus, even in rear-area and static positions, the German commander will, insofar as possible, build up his plan of organization and action in such manner as to incorporate as much of the offensive theory of operation as the situation will permit. This general underlying principle of German employment of troops and materiel should always be kept in mind in connection with the following discussion, which in accordance with the above classification has been divided into a section covering the use of AA with forces in the field and a section covering the use of AA in Germany and other static defense areas.