Applying Effects-Based Operations in Small Wars

Abstract

The current model for applying effects-based operations (EBO) requires modifications in order to apply the concept effectively in small wars. In the decade since the end of the Cold War, the US military has sought ways to adapt itself to a new security environment of an entirely different nature than it had prepared itself for the previous half a century. It has produced a plethora of operational concepts as part of this attempt to adapt. Recently the concept of effects based operations has gained popularity in certain military circles. This paper examines the basic tenets of EBO as put forth by David Deptula. The author explains how the framework proposed to apply EBO--a model developed by Jack Warden--is not suited to the small war environment. The author asserts that the current model for applying EBO requires modifications in order to apply the concept effectively in small wars; and he offers an alternative framework for applying EBO to the small war environment.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 2002
Accession Number
ADA508742

Entities

People

  • David W. Parsons

Organizations

  • Marine Corps University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Cold War
  • Combat Areas
  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Conventional Warfare
  • Employment
  • Governments
  • Information Operations
  • Marine Corps
  • Military Operations
  • Military Organizations
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Terrorists
  • United States
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Systems Analysis and Design