Service Contracts: Is Red Tape Tying the Hands of Operational Commanders

摘要

The increase in Department of Defense service contractors associated with contingency operations in Iraq and Afghanistan has increased the capabilities available to operational commanders. However, it has also highlighted major disadvantages associated with current processes associated with service contracts. The efforts of an adaptive enemy and a rapidly changing operational environment limit the factor of time for the operational commander. This can be offset by an agile force. Today, this force includes contractors. Although developed with good business sense in mind, current procedures and regulations may inhibit operational commanders' ability to adapt the portion of their force that is comprised of contractors. This paper highlights some of the problems operational commanders encounter regarding service contractors and identifies the primary causes of these problems. Further, recommendations are made to aid operational commanders in efficiently and effectively integrating service contractors into future operations through initial requirement identification, contract language development and potential adjustments to contract modification authority.