A Standing Joint Task Force: It is Time for a Virtual Solution
Abstract
The September 2001 Quadrennial Defense Review has raised the possibility of establishing a Standing Joint Task Force (SJTF) Headquarters working under each of the regional combatant commands in the near future. The military should consider it probable that creation of an SJTF will be translated into a requirement in the near future and remain unresourced. The establishment of Standing Joint Task Forces promises a more rapid response by reducing activation time and maintaining greater Joint interoperability. Each of the three methods by which this can be accomplished has its own advantages and disadvantages. Completely manning the SJTF uses too much manpower. Establishing the SJTF as an empty organizational chart is little different from the ad hoc JTFs that are created today and loses all the benefit of a standing unit. Partially manning the unit with a cadre of key individuals that can be augmented for deployment or training is the best method. Creation of this SJTF as a shell provides a cadre of personnel that can impart long-term continuity. Establishing contact with military organizations from other countries, various U.S. Departments and outside agencies before a crisis occurs and maintaining it throughout a mission can enable better coordination. Additionally, an SJTF provides a means for each Combatant Commander to proceed with Joint experimentation. An option open to the Combatant Commander is the use of virtual teams in augmenting the main body of the staff. Inclusion of personnel electronically from multiple locations reflects today s reality, flexes our technological superiority, and saves deployment time and dollars, both during exercises and real-world missions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 04, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA400932
Entities
People
- Alan B. Clayton
Organizations
- Naval War College