Command and Control Insubordination
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May 26, 2025 Nate Jennings, a Lieutenant Colonel and associate professor at the US Commander General Staff College, dives into the fascinating world of military command dynamics during the Yom Kippur War. He discusses Ariel Sharon's bold insubordination, which turned the tide of battle despite defying superiors. Jennings highlights the tension and rivalry between commanders, the delicate balance of innovative tactics against strict protocol, and how personal relationships influence decision-making. His insights reveal the complexities of leadership in high-stakes military environments.
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Sharon's Insubordination Breaks Through
- Ariel Sharon, a maverick divisional commander, bypassed his superiors to push an aggressive countercrossing plan in the Yom Kippur War.
- Despite mistrust and conflict with theater commanders, his insubordination enabled a breakthrough in the Southern Theater.
Contested Canal Crossing Plans
- Sharon pushed forward aggressively with limited tanks crossing the canal despite orders to wait for bridges.
- Theater commanders insisted on securing the route first, leading to frustrated conflict during the Chinese farm battle.
Tactical vs Theater Command Tension
- Tactical commanders like Sharon see immediate battlefield opportunities, while theater commanders weigh broader logistical risks.
- This tension shapes operational tempo and risk tolerance in dynamic combat scenarios.