Can IPB Eliminate Mission Creep?

Abstract

Abstract : Since the breakup of the Soviet Union, U.S. political and military involvements have increased. The specific missions vary from humanitarian operations to peacekeeping which are known as Operations Other Than War (OOTW). The major challenge to military leaders and planners involves adapting our units, doctrine, and equipment to the successful accomplishment of OOTW. A phenomenon in the execution of these new missions is the idea of 'mission creep', which causes units to conduct operations that vary from original orders. The real challenge for commanders and staffs is how to deal with mission creep? This monograph examines the phenomena of mission creep in OOTW environments, and answers the question: in OOTW is it possible to eliminate mission creep through detailed and thorough Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB)? OOTW operations are conducted by conventional units using standard doctrine; therefore, the monograph begins by examining existing IPB doctrine. The focus narrows to specific OOTW environments. Several different OOTW techniques are introduced and discussed in relation to doctrine. They are then compared and contrasted to each other to determine the effect of the techniques on the IPB process to allow the elimination of mission creep. In order to understand the practical application of IPB in OOTW environments two historical examples are examined, the 10th Mountain Division in Haiti and in Somalia. Finally the concept of mission creep is examined in the context of Ends-Ways-Means to determine if the root causes can be changed by the division commander. The monographs studies the phenomenon of mission creep, the possible causes of mission creep, and possible solutions in eliminating the problem. The monograph concludes by providing guidance which highlights the usefulness of IPB for eliminating mission creep in OOTW.