Base Development in Modern Contingency Operations: Can Active Army Engineers Meet the Task?
Abstract
This monograph discusses the importance of base development to operational sustainment and the role that Army engineers will play in modern Corps-level contingency operations. Base developments in an austere theater will be a complex task that will involve close coordination and planning among not only services of a joint task force, but also among the numerous branches of the Army. This monograph examines base development requirements with regard to current Army doctrine and engineer force structure. Following a review and analysis of Army and engineer doctrine, the paper then examines the historical example of base development offered by Operation OVERLORD in June, 1944. The engineering operations carried out in the invasion of Normandy are used as a model for all modern engineer operations in support of large operations in an austere theater. The paper then discusses the engineer requirements for base development in a hypothetical corps-level contingency operation in Southwest Asia. The basis for the case study is the USCENTCOM exercise conducted annually by the School of Advanced Military Studies (SAMS). Finally, conclusions are made that address the capability of the Active Army engineer force to support modern contingency operations in an austere theater. Recommendations for operational level engineer considerations include force structure, development of common joint engineering doctrine, and the need for joint operational level training for engineer officers of all services.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 11, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA235077
Entities
People
- Charles L. Toomey
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College