Risk-Based Decision-Making and the Use of Operational Risk Management in Developing a Course of Action (COA) for the Joint Task Force (JTF)
Abstract
Uncertainty and risk are inherent in the nature of military action. The success of any joint military operation is based upon a willingness to balance risk with opportunity in taking bold, decisive action necessary to triumph in war. At the same time, commanders have a fundamental responsibility to safeguard personnel and material resources, and to accept the level of controlled risk necessary to accomplish the assigned mission. Operational Risk Management (ORM) is the process that assists the military commander in reducing or offsetting risk and helps him think through his options when faced with force employment and the requirement for risk control for mission success. By systematically identifying, assessing, and controlling risk arising from operational factors, the commander can evaluate all the elements that affect the employment of forces and assets. While ORM terminology is discussed in joint operational doctrine and planning publications, there exists no clear application and integration in developing the Commander's Estimate of the Situation (CES) through the Course of Action (COA) process. This paper will illustrate how ORM fits into the existing Joint Operation Planning and Execution System (JOPES) process to assist leadership in identifying the optimum COA for mission success. Included in the ORM application is a quantifiable evaluation process that prioritizes the threat, vulnerability, and criticality for joint commanders to apply limited resources to enhance operational capability. No longer will the Commander Joint Task Force (CJTF) have to rely exclusively on his intuition and experience in calculating the increased levels of risk he can accept for mission success.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA419825
Entities
People
- Denis M. Faherty
Organizations
- Naval War College