Expeditionary Economics: A Force Multiplier in the Counterinsurgency Fight
Abstract
The Army has equipped leaders with the tools to address most elements of a counterinsurgency. However, it has failed to do so with economics. This is because of three reasons. First, they cannot settle on a theory. Second is a lack of clearly defined roles between the military and other agencies. Third is a lack of systems in place to train and assign an officer with economic competence to tactical units. Consequently, the Army's ability to make economic progress has been limited. Japan presents a different example of economic development employed by the Army. Officers governing Japan after WWII were trained specifically for the job. Today, some are advocating for Expeditionary Economics. This will, in theory, give leaders a means to solve immediate economic problems in a post-conflict environment. Advocates do not envision the military assuming a role that others address. Rather, they argue for giving the Army the ability to address the stability issues that are linked to economic problems. The Army should address their doctrine, personnel, organization, training, and education to create practitioners that can develop an economic line of operations. This would benefit the Army in future stability focused operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 17, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA606818
Entities
People
- Nathaniel S. Miller
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College