Establishing Theater Command and Control In a Coalition of Nations: Requirements for U.S. Doctrine
Abstract
Most conflicts involving the US, especially during the 20th century, have been newly formed coalition affairs, and US operations with other nations are likely to be the norm in the future. Such coalition partners may well be very different from the US. With limited or no alliance arrangements between the US and many potential partners, the establishment of theater command and control among diverse nations becomes an important consideration in coalition operations. This study examines what further US doctrine is needed concerning the establishment of theater command and control (C2) in a coalition of nations. The answer is sought by examining why such doctrine is useful and by looking at historical US coalitions with major partners: the British In World War II, the Republic of Korea in the Korean War, and Saudi Arabia in Operation DESERT SHIELD/STORM. Each coalition pair is examined to determine the extent of similarities between them in terms of conflicting political, cultural and military problems and objectives of coalition partners; differing logistical capabilities; and differing armaments, training and doctrine of each armed force. The nature of the theater C2 structures used and the mechanisms for dealing with differences between partners in each coalition are investigated. Next, the study surveys current US coalition C2 doctrine, looking for useful guidelines to help future theater commanders establish C2 in specific situations. Coalition doctrine is lacking in useful detail, especially for other than combined C2 structures and resulting coordination and liaison challenges. History does, however, offer models of theater C2 structures that are potentially applicable for future situations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA254131
Entities
People
- Barry A. Maxwell
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College