Leveraging Logical Lines of Operation in COIN

<p>Historically the U.S. Army faces numerous challenges planning for counterinsurgency (COIN) operations. Insurgencies by their very nature occur within the context of a complex operating environment that typically last years if not decades. The insurgency that erupted at the conclusion of major combat operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom represents an example of the complex operating environment that planners will continue to face in the future. The best available planning method for operational planners to frame operations over the duration of a protracted campaign is called logical lines of operation. Logical lines of operation provide a method for commanders to visualize and adjust operations over time space and purpose to contribute to operational objectives and strategic end-state(s). This monograph analyzes the theoretical and historical underpinnings of lines of operation (physical and logical) as well as counterinsurgency operations. Subsequently an analysis and assessment of both U.S. and British planning and counterinsurgency doctrine provides a look at the effectiveness of current doctrine in addressing the use of logical lines of operation in the complex operating environment. Case studies are analyzed to examine the practical application of logical lines of operation in COIN operations and subsequently determine whether the concept informs current doctrine. The monograph argues that a void exists in both U.S. Army and Joint doctrine with respect to the use of logical lines of operation-particularly with respect to planning COIN operations within protracted campaigns. Consequently the monograph makes the following recommendations to improve the description and depiction of logical lines of operation in U.S. Joint and Army planning and counterinsurgency doctrine. First operationalize counterinsurgency doctrine by including logical lines of operation as a planning framework. Second clarify language and terminology across current joint and army doct</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>