Partner Operations in North Burma: Assessing By, With, and Through
Abstract
To be an effective operational approach, by, with, and through (BWT) must address the entire spectrum of conflict to successfully employ and maximize the capacity and unique capabilities of surrogate forces. Partner operations are not the only means to shape the theater or address contingency operations. With the return of great power competition, current adversaries possess the ability to contest the US military in multiple domains through layers of strategic and operational stand-off. The use of surrogate forces provides unique capabilities and the means to provide access and depth while also preserving strategic flexibility, building legitimacy, and extending operational reach. However, to succeed, partner operations and the use of surrogate forces require the careful alignment of interests; unity of command balanced with the need to preserve partner agency; the careful employment of surrogate forces within their capabilities; the necessary resources and enabler support to sustain operations; and unity of effort toward a common objective. Most importantly, however, partnerships are maintained and continued through personal relationships, leadership, and mutual trust. To validate this thesis, this paper is divided into four sections. The first section establishes the framework for analysis by providing a description of BWT, an overview of current doctrine and appropriate terminology, and a discussion of partner operations as a component unified action, unified land operations, and multi-domain operations. Using the North Burma Campaign of 1943-1944, the paper will examine the use of the Chinese Army in India and Office of Strategic Services (OSS) Detachment (DET) 101 to assess the relative effectiveness of surrogate forces and the components of partner operations that enabled the achievement of operational and strategic objectives.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 23, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1083399
Entities
People
- Michael C. Haith
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College