U.S. Coast Guard Cuban Mass Emigration Operations Planning. Does It Meet the Tenets of Operational Design?
Abstract
Does Coast Guard strategic level planning for Cuban Mass Emigration Emergency Operations adequately meet the tenets of Operational Design proposed by the Naval War College? A step by step comparison of the Commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Area strategic level Operations Plan (CAA OPLAN 9707-96) to the Operational Design Schematic promulgated by the Joint Military Operations Department of the Naval War College was conducted. This OPLAN is specifically written to provide strategic operational guidance to the tactical commander for a Cuban Mass Emigration Emergency if or when that occurs. Each heading or subheading in the analysis is taken from the Schematic. The analysis indicates whether the specific Operational Design tenet has been adequately or inadequately applied, describes the reasons why, and makes some recommendations for improvement. The analysis attempts to look at the Cuban Mass Emigration OPLAN from the perspective of a DOD reader who is charged with determining what role USN or USMC assets are to play if requested. The OPLAN does a commendatory job parlaying tactical operational considerations to the subordinate Coast Guard commanders but is vague in its descriptions of national policy and strategic issues. It does not adequately convey long term aims, end states, centers of gravity, overall Coast Guard weaknesses or migrant strengths. Nor does the OPLAN adequately address how the Coast Guard expects to obtain the necessary forces for sustained high tempo operations. The lack of 'big picture' guidance forces supporting DOD commands to fill in the blanks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 07, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA325181
Entities
People
- Barry P. Smith
Organizations
- Naval War College