Span of Control and Initiative: Is More, Less?
Abstract
Modern weapons' lethality makes battlefield control difficult, decentralizes, and requires combined arms at all levels. Under these conditions narrow spans of control, three to four units are usually appropriate. Three subordinates support initiative in more positional battles of attrition. The Army with three maneuver units at most echelons is designed to fight the mobile battles our doctrine demands. The rifle squad, however, probably needs a third fire team and the Army should consider three versus four companies in armor/mechanized battalions. These changes will support leader initiative by providing leaders the control and flexibility to rapidly turn flanks, the opportunity in mobile battles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 18, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA233511
Entities
People
- Andrew S. Sandoy
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College