Operational Fires: Did They Achieve Maximum Effects During the Gulf War?
Abstract
Although there remains debate on the political and strategic success of the Gulf War, there is no doubt that at the operational and tactical levels Operation Desert Storm (ODS) was a decisive military victory. Unquestionably, a major contributor to the victory was the successful, albeit inefficient, use of operational fires. ODS illuminated problems in the areas of doctrine, planning, targeting, and command and control (C2), which prohibited the coalition from realizing the maximum potential from operational fires. Doctrinal voids, isolated planning and targeting, and the absence of a focal point for command and control of operational fires all contributed to their inefficiency during ODS. During the past ten years individual Service and Joint Publications have attempted to correct these problems, however, little or no progress has been made. While Joint Pub 3-09: Doctrine for Joint Fire Support has resolved the "interpretation issues" surrounding the Fire Support Coordination Line (FSCL), the following issues remain unresolved: controversy over emplacing the FSCL; failure to synchronize operational fires and maneuver; and the absence of a focal point for command and control of operational fires. Solutions to these problems are all within the scope of the JFC and share a common foundation in the principle of war - unity of effort. First, the JFC is responsible for the overall performance of his command. He maintains a macro-level perspective and therefore should retain the right to determine the location of the FSCL. Second, the Army utilizes Fire Support Coordinators (FSCOORDs) and Fire Support Elements (FSEs) at command echelons from battalion through corps. A similar organization must be established at the JFC level to serve as the commander's focal point for planning and executing operational fires. Finally, commanders at all levels must embrace targeting and understand that it is not the sole purview of the fire support community.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 05, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA389783
Entities
People
- John M. Kilgallon
Organizations
- Naval War College