A Paradigm for the System of Systems Countering Asymmetric Enemy Kinetic Attacks
Abstract
Given the long history of asymmetric warfare kinetic attacks coupled with what is likely to be extended warfare against terrorism, the Army urgently needs to put effective, long-term capabilities in place to understand, evaluate, and neutralize or defeat asymmetric kinetic attacks. These measures are necessary not only to defend U.S. interests, but also to provide a capability to aid our allies in their own efforts to combat asymmetric attacks. First, the paper examines characteristics of a system of systems needed to counter asymmetric kinetic attacks that emphasizes rapidly generating and effectively employing specialized knowledge, skills, experience, and materiel to neutralize and defeat asymmetric kinetic attacks. The focus is conceptualizing the organizations and processes for rapidly arming soldiers with skills and equipment to effectively counter asymmetric kinetic attacks. These concepts are intended to complement, but not replace, other doctrine for countering insurgency and terrorism. Second, the paper examines operational and institutional initiatives undertaken that are the first steps to establishing the required system of systems. The Army has made major strides since Operation Enduring Freedom began in late 2001. However, there is still significant work to be done to firmly establish new organizations and processes that set the stage for effectively countering asymmetric kinetic attacks. Finally, the paper makes recommendations in six major areas to counter emerging and future asymmetric kinetic threats. These include enhancing intelligence processes, implementing a proposed skunk works-like organization focused on asymmetric kinetic threats, tightly linking this organization to newly organized technical CBRNE operational capabilities, streamlining Army institutional processes delivering solutions to asymmetric attacks, and embedding expertise in the UEy and UEx organizational designs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 18, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA431716
Entities
People
- Karl Reinhard
Organizations
- United States Army War College