A Working Theory of Operational Art in Modern War
Abstract
This paper proposes a working theory of operational art practiced in counterinsurgency war (i.e., modern war). The underlying hypothesis of the paper is that operational art in modern war uses different logic than that used in conventional war. The inspiration for this hypothesis comes from Final Draft FM 100-20/AFM 2-XY Military Operations in Low-Intensity Conflict, 24 June 1988. This draft manual states that operational commanders use a conventional warfare type logic process when planning for LIC. For structure and comparison, this paper's base is built upon an analysis of the theory of operational art in conventional warfare as articulated in Professor James J. Schneider's 'Theoretical Paper No. 3, The Theory of Operational Art.' The paper proceeds from a definition of operational art in modern war. This is followed by a discussion of the linkage between the domains of war and constructive forces. Friction and fog are next discussed, followed by the ends-ways-means-risk relationship of operational planning. A section on materials will introduce the concept of centers of gravity. Schneider's analogy of the operational commander and the artistic painter helps to understand the next section entitled 'the operational canvas.' The final two sections will address the tools and methods available to the operational commander.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA216230
Entities
People
- Skip Thornton
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College