Theater Missile Defense: Finding a Suitable Command and Control Structure

Abstract

Current command and responsibilities guidance provided in Joint Pub 3-01.5 (Doctrine for Joint Theater Missile Defense) assigns the operational elements of Joint Theater Missile Defense to different commands and staffs. In order to provide the requisite unity of command and effort for the mission and in light of the potential strategic impact of a successful attack, a more unified command structure is needed. This can be met with the designation of a Joint Force Missile defense Component Commander. This paper examines the factors that should be considered when attempting to rectify the poor command structure guidance found in the doctrine, as well as some recommendations that have been forwarded. Given the time critical nature of this mission, the dispersal of supporting units, and the potential strategic implications of failure, a very streamlined and responsive command structure must be established. Depending on the threat and resources, this may be best accomplished through the designation of a Joint Force Missile Defense Component Commander.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 02, 2000
Accession Number
ADA378450

Entities

People

  • Steven W. Holmes

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Counter WMD
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Active Defense
  • Air Defense
  • Air Force
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • Command And Control
  • Defense Systems
  • Department Of Defense
  • Lessons Learned
  • Military Operations
  • Theater Ballistic Missiles
  • Theater Missile Defense
  • United States
  • Urban Areas
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare
  • Warning Systems
  • Weapon Control

Readers

  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Missile Defense Systems.

Technology Areas

  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control