Standing Up a Joint Task Force: The Acid Test.
Abstract
Current joint task force (JTF) formation processes and their resulting command and control structures are inadequate for short notice crisis response. These approaches may fail in a fast rising crisis where forces must be immediately committed to combat. This case is the acid test' of the process of standing up a JTF. Crisis warfighting capability at the operational level of war is being jeopardized by the current approaches to JTF formation. Historical evidence from Urgent Fury and the Persian Gulf War supports this argument. Paper describes the five geographic CINC's current approaches to JTF formation and presents some alternatives. Approaches are then compared to an ideal using a subjective scoring method. Subsequent analysis of the results and the characteristics of each approach provides a possible solution. Analysis suggests the CINCs should each form one or more standing, regional JTF headquarters. Standing headquarters would combine with the CINC's subordinate component headquarters and forces to form a JTF. This approach is the only one that meets the acid test. Modifications of the ideal solution may be necessary due to resource constraints but the basic concept is feasible and should be implemented. Additionally, the JCS should review the JTF formation process and provide additional doctrine and procedural guidance in joint publications. Current doctrine and procedures are too diverse and, in some contingencies, would prove inadequate.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 16, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA293905
Entities
People
- Randy H. King
Organizations
- Naval War College