Enhancing Command and Control in Multinational Operations
Abstract
Multinational operations have become the norm for United States forces. U.S. policy recognizes and emphasizes the importance of multinational operations, stating that the U.S. "will act with others when we can," and will "fight in concert with regional allies and friends." These requirements present military leaders with a unique set of challenges and demands. An examination of these shows that command and control (C2) is the critical primary tool needed for success in multinational operations and that commanders must actively build relationships, trust, cooperation, and cohesion; overcome language and cultural barriers; develop common procedures or norms; and establish effective communication means, technical as well as procedural; ultimately leading to true interoperability among the members of a multinational force. In addition, the transformation of U.S. forces has the potential to further exacerbate the complex and delicate nature of multinational C2. Technological shortfalls, combined with inability to integrate our cutting edge technologies with our multinational partners, will force leaders to seek and implement innovative, low-tech solutions for effective C2. This paper examines aspects and challenges of multinational ground operations C2 and offers ideas and concepts for facilitating and improving C2 in multinational operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 29, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA404313
Entities
People
- Lou L. Marich
Organizations
- United States Army War College