Operational Protection in the Littoral: A Matter of Sound Operational Design

摘要

A future conflict will undoubtedly pit the United States against an adversarywith a credible coastal navy. This littoral setting presents the operational commander with some very complex problems. Most notably, how does a Joint Task Force (JTF) protect its naval expeditionary component, while successfully completing its assigned mission This paper analyzes the adequacy of current methods for operational protection of naval forces in the littoral by looking at the effect of the sea coast environment, the characteristics of a 'credible' coastal navy, and current doctrine/technology. The author hopes to lead the reader to the conclusion that current methods are inadequate. As a starting point, this paper emphasizes the need for development of doctrine to support the concept of littoral control. Once established, commanders will have a framework from which innovative operational design will result.