Information--The Fifth Element of Combat Power.
Abstract
This monograph proposes that one of the Army's primary doctrinal concepts, combat power, requires modification to keep pace with the changing environment of conflict. It argues that the Army's combat power model, defined as the combined effects of maneuver, firepower, protection, and leadership, represents one element of the Army's foundation that must be updated to meet the requirements of modern warfare. The current combat power model fails to recognize the impact that the current Revolution in Military Affairs, specifically embodied in the emergence of information operations, has on today's Army and will have on the Army of the future. The monograph examines emerging information operations (IO) doctrine contained in FM 100-5 Operations, FM 100-6 Information Operations, TRADOC Pamphlet 525-5 Force XXI Operations--A Concept for the Evolution of Full-Dimensional Operations for the Strategic Army of the Early Twenty-First Century, and related publications. It analyzes the current model and defines the integral elements of combat power and the conditions that affect their application. In turn, the study identifies the current elements of combat power that are included in information warfare (IW) and distinguishes those aspects of 10 not imbedded in the current combat power model. Detailing the components of IW and surveying current Army doctrine regarding information operations builds a foundation for examining the historical case study and for examining proposed future doctrine. A historical case study of Operation DESERT STORM provides the groundwork for considering the role information plays in the current combat power model. The analysis of the contemporary paradigm and the historical examination of IO combined with an overview of emerging concepts developed to support Force XXI affords a thorough basis for establishing a new framework.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA314297
Entities
People
- George J. Franz
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College