Improving the command and control organization in expeditionary operations

• Main Author: Eriksen, David W.
• Other Authors: Boger, Dan
• Format: Others
• Published: Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School 2012
• Subjects: Naval strategy
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10945/1117

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited === The military is developing new doctrine, such as Ship to Objective Maneuver (STOM), to take advantage of emerging technology. The problem is that new command and control organizations are not being developed to execute this new doctrine. The insistence that the tried and true Commander, Amphibious Task Force/Commander, Landing Force (CATF/CLF) organization or similar structure will do the job hinders the full effectiveness of this new doctrine. STOM removes the need for massive build up ashore in an amphibious operation. Instead, using naval forces as a sea base, the assault force moves sufficient military strength directly to a point at which it can accomplish the mission. This allows the landing force commander to stay on board, thus negating the need for two commanders. The Expeditionary Battle Staff (EBS) is a possible solution to this problem. A combination of the Amphibious Squadron and Marine Expeditionary Unit staffs, EBS has one commander. Using emerging C2 technology, the commander directs the assault from the sea. EBS is designed to have a commander from either the Navy or Marine Corps, with the staff providing the tactical expertise to support him in his mission. === Lieutenant, United States Navy