Joint Irregular Warfare Capability and a Special Operations Forces Joint Task Force Capable Headquarters
Abstract
A current problem facing the US military is that, while future Irregular Warfare (IW) requirements exist, US civilian and military leaders see large-scale combat operations or Traditional Warfare (TW) as a more significant threat to the nation than IW. However, there is also a requirement from US civilian leaders for the military to maintain competency and capability in IW not just for the current War on Terror, but also for future threats. Currently, the US military has one primary answer for the organization of both TW and IW, the Joint Task Force (JTF). A Conventional Force (CF) headquarters (HQ) typically commands a JTF through the phases of a campaign, but this may not be the best command option for IW. Based on the different objectives and required activities within TW and IW campaigns, this paper argues that joint doctrine should specify the creation of a standing three-star Special Operations Forces HQ capable of commanding IW-focused phases and operations. This institutionalizes long-term IW capability and enables CF to safely refocus efforts to training and readiness for large-scale conflict and TW. This argument is supported by two case studies from Afghanistan and Iraq, which examine CF HQ transitioning from a TW-focused phase to an IW-focused phase; these studies outline the potential shortfalls in using a CF HQ to lead an IW-focused JTF.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 24, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1071225
Entities
People
- Ryan M. Pearce
Organizations
- School of Advanced Military Studies