Non-Linear Operations: A New Doctrine for a New Era
Abstract
The latest U. S. Army doctrine calls for quick, decisive victory with minimum casualties. Historically, simultaneity has provided a means of doing this. However, current trends are making it increasingly likely that non-linear operations will be required in order to achieve simultaneity. Our current doctrine provides an excellent framework for conducting mid-to-high intensity linear operations, but it is not well suited to non-linear operations like Operation JUST CAUSE. This monograph provides an alternative, nonlinear framework to fill that gap. It concludes that non-linearity will be increasingly necessary to achieve quick and decisive victories, and that the current framework is inadequate for conducting such operations. It also finds that a non-linear framework is universally applicable across the spectrum of conflict, whereas the AirLand Battle framework is not. Lastly, and most importantly, it finds that a non-linear operational framework significantly contributes to achieving, the simultaneity necessary for winning quick and decisive victories.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 20, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA284137
Entities
People
- Sean B. Macfarland
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College