Beginning With the End in Mind: Post-Conflict Operations and Campaign Planning

Abstract

Abstract : Joint and U.S. Army doctrine is deficient in addressing post-conflict operations (PCO) with PCO defined as Stability and Support Operations conducted after the conclusion of major combat to achieve the strategic policy objectives for peace. This study addresses three central questions. Is there a need for post-conflict planning in the campaign process? What conditions are necessary to achieve success in the post-conflict environment? Are PCO the decisive phase? Brief case studies demonstrate the importance of PCO planning and suggest five necessary conditions for success: national and domestic security, a governing body, a judicial system, an economic system, and a populace capable of making the first four work. As U.S. military involvement does not culminate with the successful conclusion of major combat, planning for conflict termination and transition from combat to PCO should outline necessary conditions for a smooth transition. This study concludes that PCO is the decisive phase of operations and offers a planning model based on academic and doctrinal sources. Additional conclusions are that the U.S. military acknowledge its leading role in planning and executing PCO, major war games should incorporate post-conflict planning and execution, and the Department of Defense should pursue the developing Joint Interagency Coordination Group concept.