The Strategy Bridge

Combatant Command Campaign Planning with Chad Pillai

34 snips
Mar 15, 2022
Chad Pillai, a U.S. Army strategist and author, dives into the intricacies of combatant command campaign planning. He shares firsthand experiences transitioning from theory to practical strategy, revealing the dynamic roles within Operational Planning Teams. Pillai discusses the historical significance of the Middle East, the impact of great power competition with Russia and China, and the integration of military and diplomatic strategies. He also emphasizes essential skills for future military strategists, particularly the importance of reading and writing in building effective communication.
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ANECDOTE

Initial Planning Experience

  • Chad Pillai's first planning experience involved analyzing Combatant Command Campaign Plans at the Pentagon.
  • This involved assessing Army equities and support requirements for commands like AFRICOM, PACOM, EUCOM, and CENTCOM.
ADVICE

Start with "Why"

  • Begin campaign planning by understanding the "why" behind the actions.
  • Analyze the National Security Strategy, Unified Command Plan, and Contingency Planning Guidance.
ANECDOTE

Visualizing Geopolitics

  • Pillai used a board game, Axis and Allies, to illustrate geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East.
  • This hands-on approach helped visualize the region's complexities beyond abstract theory.
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