Force Planning Scenarios, 1945-2016: Their Origins and Use in Defense Strategic Planning
Abstract
This report documents research and analysis conducted as part of a project titled Defense Planning for a New Era, sponsored by the Quadrennial Defense Review Office, Deputy Chief of Staff (G-8), Headquarters, United States Army. The project aims to identify options for developing and improving the employment of scenarios in defense planning. The report describes the forces that shaped conventional ground force planning during the 19452016 period, with an emphasis on the strategic concepts and contingency scenarios used. It identifies broader lessons, especially those related to the strategic concepts that help connect basic national security policies with the planning and development of conventional ground forces. It also provides the context for the consideration of different combinations of alternative force planning scenarios. Finally, the report identifies potential opportunities for the U.S. Army to influence the future selection of defense planning scenarios. The findings should be of interest to Army force planners and others engaged in strategic planning in the U.S. Department of Defense.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1085842
Entities
People
- Eric V. Larson
Organizations
- RAND Corporation