Reconstructing Operational Theory: A Framework for Emerging Threats in a Complex Environment
Abstract
Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom stand as the zenith of the United States' operational theory for combined arms maneuver resulting from Air Land Battle and maneuver warfare. During the interim 10 years between these conflicts, proponents of the Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA) and the Transformation process postulated that advanced technologies would achieve "precision engagement," "dominant maneuver," "persistent ISR," and even "Global Strike." The drive to Baghdad confirmed this hubris while the experiences of Mogadishu, Somalia, Grozny, and other indicators of a changing tide went unheeded. However, the combination of these experiences taught potential adversaries the need for mechanisms to mitigate U.S. military dominance. Conventional enemy forces, terrorists, and both state- and nonstate-sponsored insurgent groups recognize the futility of open confrontation with U.S. military forces. From Lebanon to Al-Anbar province, weaker foes enabled by the information age and weapons proliferation see the urban environment as the great leveling mechanism to enable their cause. Al Qaida, Hezbollah, and others understand that tactical integration with the urban environment and "hugging" the civilian populace minimize their opponent's advantages of Intelligence-Surveillance-Target Acquisition-Reconnaissance (ISTAR), mass, and firepower, while increasing their operational complexity. These urban advantages promote protection and concealment for weaker groups and allow them to harness the domain of information operations and propaganda. A new operational theory is required to provide a conceptual framework for achieving strategic objectives against emerging insurgent threats in an increasingly complex urban environment. This new operational theory for future conflict will ensure that DoD breaks the technology-centric approach that drives existing Joint doctrine and concepts development and avoids the "idealization of tactics."
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA519613
Entities
People
- Daniel Q. Greenwood
Organizations
- Marine Corps University