Accession Number:

AD1089315

Title:

The Exit Through the Ivory Gate: A Study of Phase IV/V Operational Design in Operation Iraqi Freedom

Descriptive Note:

Technical Report,16 Jul 2013,13 Jun 2014

Corporate Author:

Joint Advanced Warfighting School, Joint Forces Staff College NORFOLK

Personal Author(s):

• Hovatter, Mark J.

Report Date:

2014-06-02

Pagination or Media Count:

120.0

Abstract:

This thesis provides a practical guide for planners engaged in post major combat operations campaign planning, and provides tools to evaluate the environment and operational designs before and during execution. The methodology chooses a detailed analysis of a single case study instead of cursory analysis of multiple case studies, and attempts to consider the full range of influences on design. Through interpretation of conceptual models used in the OIF Phase IVV design, and relating the elements of operational design, we gain insights into the theory of action which underpinned the design. Though no cookie cutter solutions are advanced, analysis of the OIF framework will yield transferrable insights to someone who is planning or evaluating similar operations in the future. The experience gained from this analysis may be decisive in achieving future success in Phase IV sooner and, hopefully, with less loss of blood and treasure.

Descriptors:

• contingency operations (military)
• military history
• political systems
• iraqi war
• international relations
• terrorism
• public administration
• sectarian violence
• civil war
• terrorists
• ethnic groups
• societies
• political science

Subject Categories:

• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE