As Bush administration rhetoric has turned towards preparing the American public for a reduction in US forces in Iraq, the US military has been gradually - almost imperceptibly - changing its on-the-ground tactics to prepare for a smaller footprint after the December 15 elections.

According to civilian and military officials involved in Iraqi planning, US and coalition forces have begun backing off so-called "search and destroy" tactics that have killed large numbers of insurgents only to allow them to reoccupy urban havens.