Intelligence Training for Stability and Support Operations -- Can the Military Intelligence Officers Advance Course Do Better

摘要

Futurists depict a world dominated by increased ethnically based transnational threats using asymmetric tactics to engage U.S. forces. These type operations are categorized under the rubric of Stability and Support Operations (SASO). Currently our training strategy is to remain ready for Major Regional Conflict (MRC) and prepare for SASO on a case by case basis. This monograph examines the intelligence skills required to operate in a SASO environment and then evaluates how well the Military Intelligence Advanced Course (MIOAC) prepares students for SASO challenges. The monograph methodology is to define the intelligence skills required for SASO and validate the proposed skill set against doctrine and Mission Essential Task Lists for Army Intelligence XXI. Following definition of the skills a review of recent SASO operations to include; Haiti, Somalia, and Bosnia document the quality of intelligence officer performance in SASO operational environments. MIOAC is then reviewed for how well it addresses operational shortfalls based on standards correlated to the intelligence skill set identified earlier. Finally the monograph concludes with recommendations for improving MIOAC within the constraints of the current TRADOC system as well as recommendations on a new paradigm for officer training.