Developing Doctrine for the Future Joint Force

Colonel Brown argues that recent operations have highlighted seams and shortfalls in joint doctrine that need to be addressed in the shaping of a more effective future joint force. Using the current doctrine command and control tenets and Joint Operations Concept attributes as a framework, Colonel Brown develops the foundation of air-ground doctrine for the future joint force. Using case studies from recent contingencies to illustrate gaps in current doctrine, he proposes doctrinal concepts via five air-ground integration focus areas: supporting/supported relationships, establishing directives and emerging concepts, synchronization of interdiction and maneuver, joint fires concepts, and fire support coordination measures. Colonel Brown proposes support relationships be defined by the joint force commander based on operational objectives. Joint force commanders would then articulate intent, relationships, and objectives through proposed establishing directive guidance. Colonel Brown also proposes a responsive and interoperable joint organizational construct capable of integrating the effects created by fire and maneuver. He completes his proposals by recommending a standardized coordination-measure construct to allow timely decision making and execution in future joint operations.