Should We Use Our '911' Forces to Conduct Peacekeeping Operations; What are the Implications on Readiness, Operational Tempo (OPTEMPO) and Leadership

摘要

The Army of the future faces the challenges of a decreased force that must respond to a Nation's calling whether in combat or Operations Other Than War (OOTW) such as peace operations. We can assume based on guidance provided by the National Security Strategy (NSS) and our senior leaders that peace operations will continue in the future. While this presents challenges to our basic warfighting mission it also has positive implications to the future Army. Until the 1st Cavalry Division deployed, the bulk of the forces assigned to peacekeeping came from Europe's two divisions and the 10th Mountain Division. By deciding to use '911' forces, those identified as first to deploy for contingency missions, to conduct peacekeeping operations the Army has taken steps to ease the impacts of OPTEMPO. Additionally, it has provided a training ground for future leaders while minimizing readiness impacts and still maintaining forces combat ready. Today and in the future the United States cannot afford to exclude a division and have it just focus on one particular spectrum of war. All forces must be able to operate within the full spectrum of future operations. This paper examines the implications of using 'First to Fight' i.e. '911' Divisions for Operations Other Than War by specifically reviewing the impact on readiness, operational tempo (OPTEMPO) and leadership.