Intelligence Preparation of the THEATER
Abstract
'Operational IPB' describes U.S. Army doctrine for the precombat intelligence estimate process employed at the operational level of war. Its methodology is contained in an appendix to a tactical field manual, FM 34-130, Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield. Commanders and staffs rely on 'operational IPB' to locate enemy centers of gravity--a Clausewitzian theoretical concept heralded as the essence of operational art. Due to Army-wide acceptance of original IPB doctrine and growing interest in war fighting, 'operational IPB' has emerged as a simple, familiar procedural solution to the search for a center of gravity. This study seeks to determine whether the abstract concepts contained in 'operational IPB' doctrine provide an adequate theoretical foundation for intelligence estimates in a theater of operations. The monograph first assesses present doctrine regarding operational art, operational intelligence, and 'operational IPB,' with the goal of demonstrating center of gravity's central role in each.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 15, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA251783
Entities
People
- Kevin D. Johnson
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College