Designing the Joint Force Maritime Component Commander Through Practical Applications Past, Present and Future

Abstract

Abstract : U.S. joint doctrine continues to evolve as the Department of Defense develops definitive policy for the conduct of joint operations. The issuance of Joint Vision 2020 soon after the inaugural Joint Vision 2010 evidences the immense challenge in developing joint doctrine. This process is further complicated by uneven doctrinal maturity across the spectrum of U.S. joint operations, even where like functions exist. The Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC) and the Joint Force Land Component Commander (JFLCC) roles have been defined, and JFACC doctrine is indeed mature. The concept of a Joint Force Maritime Component Commander (JFMCC) remains embryonic. The JFMCC concept requires solid definition and direction - assuming that there is a valid need for a JFMCC. Although the impetus for JFACC/FLCC doctrine differs from JFMCC, both can serve as models for designing the JFMCC concept. Case studies of past joint operations and campaigns can prove invaluable in validating or revising current doctrine and developing new joint doctrine. This paper draws upon the lessons of past operations, current practice and experiments, pending drafts, and joint vision to propose a role for the Joint Force Maritime Component Commander. Review and analysis of selected U.S. joint operations and Allied combined operations will be used in designing proposed duties and responsibilities for the JFMCC. By examining the conduct of earlier joint and combined maritime operations, postulating if superimposing a JFMCC on these 'joint operations' might have delivered significant improvement, and applying this construct to proposed joint doctrine under the tenets of Joint Vision 2020, the need for a JFMCC can be evaluated. If the concept is validated, a JFMCC model can be proposed. The JFMCC is envisioned as a key joint force component commander - vital to the JFC organization, command and control structures.