Task Force Hawk: Operational Mobility Lessons for the Joint Force Commander

摘要

The deployment of the U.S. Army Task Force (TF) Hawk during Operation Allied Force challenged the ability of the U.S. military to provide a robust capability for operational mobility in the overlap between inter- and intra- theater mobility. This paper identifies operational mobility challenges faced by the Joint Force Commander (JFC) by studying the deployment of TF Hawk and makes recommendations for the JFC to solve these problems. TF Hawk is briefly reviewed, then specific operational mobility lessons are identified using the Principles of Logistics as a framework. The JFC, understanding the lessons for operational mobility of TF Hawk, can take action to overcome and mitigate the challenges that threaten to undermine responsiveness and flexibility and limit his courses of action. Close coordination and cooperation between the supported commander, the supporting commanders, and their respective component commanders will ensure operational mobility is achievable using the right mix of inter- and intra-theater transportation assets. In addition, enhanced efficiency during deployment and careful consideration of attainability while planning for deployment will ensure the right forces are delivered to the right place at the right time to support the commander's concept of operations.