Centering the Ball

<p>Joint warfare is no longer the novelty it once was. With shrinking budgets and force structures services have to rely on each other to maximize effects on the battlefield. Joint interdependence is the new reality for U.S. combat operations. To achieve true interdependence however we must first address inefficiencies when employing forces in combat. Unused strike sorties gaps in fire support and artificially constructed lines of attack are examples of inefficiencies that have plagued the U.S. military recently. These problems are merely symptoms of a more serious malady that results from componency. Although componency enables the specialization in equipment tactics techniques and procedures that characterize American military operations; it also impedes joint interdependence. Can more explicit forms of command and control lead to greater efficiency and effectiveness in joint warfare? This thesis examines four areas; componency doctrine learning and technology to analyze how each inhibits or fosters a change in the current C2 structure. Analysis reveals that while componency may be an effective way to organize train and equip forces it is not the most effective way to employ them. Fortunately the Goldwater-Nichols Act that provided the blueprint for joint structure does not restrict the combatant commander from choosing more explicit forms of command and control.</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p><br>