Writing the Last Chapter First: Operational Commanders and the Steady State
Abstract
In limited wars the operational problem most often encountered and yet not fully addressed is that of translating military success that results in favorable war termination into steady long-term peace. This often results from the use of military forces with just lip service to war termination conditions, post-hostilities activities, and most importantly, achievement of an end state as opposed to a steady state. A steady state is "the rest of the story;" months or years after the limited war concludes. Even though end state considerations are addressed throughout joint doctrine, Operational Commanders tend to center their plans on war termination and exit strategy at the expense of the longer-term conditions needed to enable the steady state. By evaluating the JTF's planned conditions in context of supporting the bridge from war to peace, and focusing resources in areas of influence, Operational Commanders can avoid creating military conditions counter to those needed to establish and maintain the steady state.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 13, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA409156
Entities
People
- James F. Jamison
Organizations
- Naval War College