In Search of a Combat Theory: the Tactical Utility of TMCI's Military Combat Theory
Abstract
What is the relevance of the Military Conflict Institute's (TMCI's) new military combat theory for the tactical commander? The answer to this question highlights the long debate over the role of science and art in the commander's estimate, a debate which the Soviets have answered with 'all science' and the U.S. with 'all art'. If the end objective of theory and doctrine is to generate combat power then TMCI's integrated approach of art AND science functions more usefully for the commander than does current U.S. tactical doctrine. TMCI's proposed model shows the commander the components and linkages of combat whereas current U.S. doctrine chiefly supplies a listing of imperatives with questionable utility. By grouping combat variables and analyzing their interaction TMCI both quantifies important combat intangibles and reduces the number of variables with which a commander must deal. Freed from the overwhelming immensity of combat unknowns, the commander is actually freer to practice his 'art', and in a more informed way. (cp)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 27, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA225469
Entities
People
- James A. Muhl Jr
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College