Government Contractors - Do We Really Need Them?
Abstract
Over nine long years have elapsed since the tragic events of September 11th 2001 and the Global War on Terrorism that as of December 21, 2010 resulted in the loss of over 5,911 American Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and Airman. Yet, not counted in these tragic statistics is the over 1,688 civilian contractors who lost their lives and over 37,000 wounded. This paper examines some of the significant strategic problems identified by the increased dependence of DoD on contractor support in forward operations. Specifically, this paper will analyze four specific areas: 1.) the ability or lack thereof to provide contract management oversight by military personnel; 2.) the legal limits of what services contractors may perform in a forward deployed environment; 3.) the lack of flexibility of the overall procurement system to meet rapid changing military strategies; and 4.) the ability of the military to properly leverage the use of contractors consistent with theater campaign objectives. In conclusion, this paper will make several recommendations designed to assist strategic decision makers concerning the policies and improvements necessary to ensure contractors are best utilized for any future contingency operation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 09, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA553013
Entities
People
- John P. Carrell
Organizations
- United States Army War College