Offense Inverted: Non-Standard Applications of the Multi-Domain Task Force in the Indo-Pacific
Abstract
The U.S. Army's Multi-Domain Operations operating concept is meant to solve the problem of anti-access and area-denial (A2/AD) threats posed by peer adversaries. The primary means of defeating these threats is the Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF), but the MDTF has potential beyond penetrating A2/AD spaces. This is significant amid the ongoing debate about the U.S. Army's role in the Indo-Pacific. This study examines the capabilities of the MDTF and how it can contribute to the Joint Force in the Indo-Pacific by using a reverse version of the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System process. This process analyzes MDTF's capabilities based on requirements documents, determines the potential gaps those capabilities can fill, examines how the MDTF can fill those gaps at three key locations in the Indo-Pacific. This study demonstrates that the MDTF has a unique and flexible mix of capabilities that allow it to perform multiple tasks beyond penetrating enemy A2/AD spaces. These include generating its own A2/AD space to serving as a deterrent to enemy escalation and assisting in maintaining operational access for follow-on forces. The MDTF can also isolate enemy forces and delay or disrupt enemy movements and massing of forces, while providing early warning and targeting information. This enables the MDTF to contribute to Joint Force operations in the Indo-Pacific across all phases of competition and conflict if used to its full potential.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1209914
Entities
People
- David E. Degenhardt
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College