Rethinking Tactical HUMINT in a MAGTF World
Abstract
Although commanders and the intelligence community understand the importance of successful Human Intelligence, as revealed in numerous after-action reports from operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Marine Corps has not yet instituted the changes necessary to correct its deficiencies in this area. These deficiencies are the result of fundamental shortfalls in the task organization, training, operational integration, and employment of human exploitation teams (HETs). Due to a lack of education and integrated training, regiment commanders, battalion commanders, and company and platoon commanders do not have a comprehensive understanding of human intelligence operations and the employment of this intelligence asset. Likewise, most HETs do not have much training in conducting operations with squads, platoons, companies, or battalions. As a consequence, HETs are constantly being misemployed or not used at all. Current and future threats necessitate that the Marine Corps modify and modernize its Human Intelligence training program, transitioning from Cold War era doctrine and tactics to tactics appropriate for high-intensity conflicts and unconventional warfare. If Headquarters Marine Corps were to direct the selection and recruitment of Marines into the Human Intelligence and Counterintelligence community, it would improve the task organization and quality of the Marines transitioning into counterintelligence companies. Modifying doctrine and occupational specialty training will enhance HET Marines' ability to conduct operations in an unconventional or conventional battlefield.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 06, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA506880
Entities
People
- M. S. Wilbur
Organizations
- Marine Corps University