RAF and Mission Command
Abstract
A vast number of unknowns characterize the global environment. Mission command, however, provides a framework for handling unknowns. Mission command is concerned with how commanders, with staff, combine the art of command and the science of control to understand situations, make decisions, direct action, and accomplish missions.2 Although counter intuitive, RAF missions are more complex than conventional operations and tactics. RAF is harder, not because of the volume or rapidity of data or decisions, but because of the complexity of relationships and the need to understand the operating environment. Initially, this report examines changes in national policy, strategy and the global environment that drove the creation of RAF. The second section examines RAF through the lens of the art of command, i.e., the mission command philosophy, by examining six guiding principles. The third section analyzes RAF through the application of the science of control, the Army Warfighting functions (WfF), and the systems that enable command and control. Finally, a DOTMLPF analysis serves to articulate challenges and opportunities for RAF in the areas of doctrine, organization, training, and material. The United States has always counted on its Armed Forces to win the nation s wars with the Army playing a key role. After a decade of conflict, however, the national strategy has begun to shift to war and conflict prevention. Driven by the desire to defeat violent extremism, the 2008 National Defense Strategy (NDS) began to stress the importance of building partner capacity to enable regional allies to defeat terrorism.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA618262
Entities
People
- John A. Bonin
- Mark B. Parker
Organizations
- United States Army War College