Objectives and Success - Linking National Policy Objectives and MilitaryStrategic Objectives to Achieve Success

摘要

Clearly defined political objectives enable commanders to focus militarystrategic objectives to attain success. To better understand this relationship between national policy goals and the successful application of military power to achieve them, this study examines U.S. operations in Korea, Somalia, and the Persian Gulf. In each case, the paper identifies the link between clear objectives and success, or explores the correlation between ambiguous and/or changing objectives and failure. The paper concludes that political leaders must develop and articulate clear, attainable, consistent objectives. Commanders must define military objectives that achieve the political goals. This may involve developing parameters that narrow and provide focus to broad political objectives. Finally, military and political leaders must constantly discuss and coordinate their objectives.