Joint Task Force - Port Opening: Can this Emerging Capability Expedite Operational Objectives Throughout the Range of Military Operations

摘要

With the U.S. Military shifting from a 'defend in place' mindset to that of an 'expeditionary' combat force, the need for a rapid port opening capability and efficient distribution network has never been greater. JTF-PO is an emerging capability under operational control of USTRANSCOM with the ability to provide a joint enabling force capable of rapidly deploying anywhere in the world to quickly establish, and initially operate, an aerial port of debarkation or sea port of debarkation, and establish a forward node in order to optimize port throughput while achieving 100 percent in-transit visibility. This paper starts by identifying the historical challenges that necessitated the creation of JTF-PO, explores its component parts and intrinsic capabilities, and evaluates its operational employment. Finally, this paper draws the conclusion that although a full JTF-PO has not been operationally employed, the successful employment of its component parts validate its capability, and that it is capable of expediting operational objectives throughout the range of military operations while at the same time filling the gaps for which it was designed.