UAVs for the Operational Commander: Beyond Tactical Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition (RSTA).
Abstract
Joint Publication 3-55, Doctrine for Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA) and 3-55.1, Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (JTTP) for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), consider UAVs as tactical assets. As joint publications, they have an obligation to establish a framework to guide the employment of joint forces and provide a basis for joint training to enhance the effectiveness of joint operations. The tactical focus of joint doctrine for UAV employment is echoed in other joint doctrinal publications to include Joint Pub 2-0, Intelligence Support to Joint Operations. This myopic focus inhibits the integration of UAVs into sequenced and synchronized joint operations, thereby, limiting their ability to conduct operations at the operational and strategic levels of war. Current UAV doctrine must be changed in order for commanders to realize the full potential of UAVs to enhance joint operations. Only then can an adequate framework for employment and training be established to allow a joint force commander to integrate UAVs into the planning, preparing, conducting, and sustaining of joint forces to accomplish operational or strategic objectives through the conduct of campaigns and major operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 07, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA325830
Entities
People
- Maxie C. Thom
Organizations
- Naval War College