Force Health Protection for the Objective Force

Abstract

Abstract : The transformation of the U.S. Army from a 2002 legacy force, into the future Objective Force will create unique challenges for the medical sustainment mission. As new methods and concepts are introduced that capitalize on information technologies and enhanced productivity, the Army Medical Department will seek parity in operational capabilities. This is not an easy task, as constraints to reduce the sustainment organization and operate within an extended contemporary operating environment will challenge the capability to provide medical sustainment. If the medical sustainment footprint is reduced, the capability to 'Conserve the Fighting Strength' of the Objective Force soldier in the contemporary operating environment will be at risk. The Army Medical Department (AMEDD) has the responsibility of transforming the U.S. Army's Combat Health Support system into a seamless continuum that will sustain the life of the Objective Force in a complex contemporary operating environment. The future medical sustainment concept is called Force Health Protection. The AMEDD provides support at any cost, however, can it adequately support a force that is more mobile, dominant, and faster than any peer competitor? In comparison, the Combat Health Support unit is a step behind the fighting force in regards to equipment, capability, and mobility. The advent of the Objective Force has the potential to widen the gap between the fighting force and it's supporting Combat Health Support system. The Objective Force is the future combat force that will operate throughout the full spectrum of military operations. It will possess dominant maneuver, lethality, speed, and the technological advantage as it operates over extended distances. As military leaders demand a smaller and more mobile force, the Force Health Protection of the Objective Force soldier will require leap ahead medical technologies and innovations to support the force.