Crushing uncertainty in the Army division: adaptability as a combat multiplier
Abstract
This monograph analyzes the role of the division staff in an emerging operational environment. The division staff must become more adaptable to the uncertainties presented on the battlefield. Adaptability is the ability to adjust to new conditions. As the global environment continues to evolve, so too must our divisions. The division is at the pinnacle of the operational level of war. With one foot in the tactical directing the Brigade Combat Teams (BCT) and the other fully resting in the operational level with a watchful eye on the strategic end state, the division is vital to future mission success for the Army. Two historical examples display the unique tasks that a division must carry out to be successful. The 162d Division of the Israeli Defense Force struggled to adapt to the Egyptian army in the Yom Kippur War of 1973. Conversely, the 1st Infantry Division during Desert Storm overcame the shadows of Vietnam to transform on the move and attack and defeat Saddam Hussein's most revered division. The sources supporting this monograph ranged from history books, military journals, current theoretical papers and biographies of those who served in the wars discussed. The United States divisions of the future must train to become more adaptable. The division chief of staff must enable the transformation and development of staff capable of succeeding in uncertainty.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 24, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1071265
Entities
People
- Duke W. Reim
Organizations
- School of Advanced Military Studies