Toward a Primer on Operational Art.
Abstract
The 1993 version of FM 100-5 advertises itself as concentrating on the operational level of war. It defines several terms that are used in operational art, but inadequately explains how they relate to one another. The terms and definitions contained in the 1993 version of FM 100-5 do not match the definitions and terms of the characteristics of operational art included in Joint Publication 3.0 Doctrine for Joint Operations published in 1995. These gaps and disconnects in understanding have often led to confusion and hindered the intellectual development of the field grade officer in the U.S. Army. This monograph will answer the research question, "Can an Operational Art Primer be developed to train field grade officers?" in the affirmative. The author will propose a mental framework that allows users to develop a concept of operation at the operational level. It will answer the four requirements of operational art and address the fourteen characteristics of operational art listed in Joint Publication 3.0 Doctrine for Joint Operations. This framework will incorporate General System Theory and allow the user to design a campaign to shock the enemy system. The mental framework consists of considering operational art in three interrelated groups. They are systems, operations and force mixes and composition. Systems, operations and force mixes are melded together to form a conceptual framework. The framework provides the user with what needs to happen when, in order to induce shock into the enemy system and what resources are required. This framework is explained in chapter four. The framework will serve as a memory aid for the SAMS graduate and allow for the education of the non-SAMS or CGSC graduate. It will result in a more efficient battlestaff and the practice of a higher level of operational art.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 27, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA370364
Entities
People
- David L. Ward
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College