Growing Effective Strength without Growing End Strength: Operational Utilization of the Reserve Component during Training Periods
Abstract
The Department of Defense (DoD) is at risk of being unable to meet its operational requirements. Ongoing budget and manpower reductions, combined with equipment recapitalization and increasing operational demands, present a situation that may become untenable to match finite resources against ballooning requirements. Fortunately, with the problem identified, many have begun seeking new and innovative ideas to overcome operational shortfalls. However, not many DoD leaders have considered utilizing the Reserve Component (RC) to support federal operations while in a training status. Historical precedence and legal restrictions have, until recently, kept RC training separate from operational missions. The laws and policies now allow and advocate utilizing the RC to augment operations while in a training status, but DoD must consolidate and codify guidance to institutionalize the RC Training/Operations Program. The program will help meet DoD operational requirements in a declining budget environment, alleviate stress on the active force, and, provide an as of yet unconsidered opportunity to hone and maintain RC wartime skills. Implementing the program inside the Defense Intelligence Community (IC) could net an additional 1,800 man-years of operational capacity per fiscal year. Once instituted, gaining access to RC at rest capacity will reap significant benefits across DoD. Turning this at rest capacity into effective strength gains is very inexpensive and easily within the department s grasp.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 13, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA621675
Entities
People
- Patrick J. Cobb
Organizations
- National Defense University