Doctrine is the True Center of Gravity for Force Transformation

摘要

Transformation is a much-used term in operational literature and the popular press. However, it is usually discussed in terms of systems (e.g. F-22, Crusader, DD-21). Little attention or press is given to doctrine and transformation. This paper asserts that doctrine is the center of gravity for force transformation. It looks at the Japanese, British, and American experience developing aircraft carriers between WW I and WW II. The technical, fiscal, and political environment in which the development occurred is analyzed and key themes from the each nation's development practices are identified as well as how these themes influenced relative success or failure in the development. The paper then shows that today's development environment is highly similar. The key themes from aircraft carrier development are doctrine based (vice technology based) and are extrapolated to form suggestions for how today's leaders may best focus efforts to successfully transform the military force.