A Complex and Volatile Environment: The Doctrinal Evolution from Full Spectrum Operations in Unified Land Operations

Abstract

Abstract : In autumn 2011, the US Army introduced Unified Land Operations (ULO) as its new operational concept, concluding the era of Full Spectrum Operations (FSO). FSO was the Army's operational concept during recent conflicts, including the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Army transitioned to ULO based on voids in Army doctrine and terminology, the persistent need to nest with joint doctrine, lessons learned from Iraq and Afghanistan, and the necessary requirement to convey the Army's unique warfighting capabilities to outside organizations. In addition, the concurrent enactment of ULO and Doctrine 2015 made doctrine more accessible to Soldiers and leaders throughout the Army. However, the adoption of ULO did not constitute a radical transformation of doctrinal thinking. To the contrary, there are only minor differences between FSO and ULO. Unfortunately, however, some of the adjustments unintentionally resulted in a confusing mix of original terminology and mature concepts. This monograph compares the two most recent doctrinal constructs and analyzes their key features in order to elucidate their compatibilities. Moreover, it argues that many of the allegedly new concepts, such as the core competencies and mission command, are carry-overs from Field Manual (FM) 3-0 Change 1, published in early 2011 as part of FSO. Ideally, this monograph seeks to assist future doctrinal revisions, while clearly delineating the similarities between FSO and ULO.