Command and Control
Synchronisation as Coupling
Sep 23, 2024
Sean Welch, a seasoned US Marine with rich combat experience and expertise in military strategy, dives deep into the concept of 'coupling' in military operations. He contrasts traditional command philosophies with modern demands, emphasizing the balance between control and creative initiative. Welch also discusses the challenges of decision-making in a tech-driven military landscape, advocating for human intuition amidst data overload. He critiques rigid command structures and highlights the importance of adapting strategies to effectively engage with adversarial capabilities in complex scenarios like Ukraine.
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Quick takeaways
- The Marine Corps emphasizes the need for selective coupling in military operations, promoting creativity and initiative to adapt to battle's fluid dynamics.
- Rapid technological advancements in warfare necessitate a critical balance between human decision-making and machine assistance to avoid undermining military effectiveness.
Deep dives
The Concept of Coupling in Military Operations
Coupling refers to the degree to which actions in military operations are dependent on one another, varying between tight and loose coupling. The Marine Corps Doctrinal Publication 5 highlights that coupling should only be applied where necessary, allowing for creativity and initiative in mission command. Centralizing control too much can stifle the creativity of military personnel, which is essential for adapting to the fluidity of battle. Thus, understanding coupling within the context of multi-domain operations (MDO) poses a significant challenge as synchronization often pushes for tighter control.
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