The Impact of Reconstitution Strategy on Operational Planning

Reconstitution strategy is examined from the standpoint of its underlying assumptions and the impact of those assumptions on operational planning. Reconstitution and its derivative regeneration are defined in terms of the more traditional aspects of mobilization familiar to operational planners. A survey of reconstitution assumptions is then conducted to identify those which operational planners can concentrate on to reduce the risk of unpreparedness. A key assumption is that the Department of Defense will fund for reconstitution capability by trading off either readiness or sustainability. A critical technology assumption is that the United States will have access to technology developed by allies. A critical industrial base assumption is that civilian sector facilities will be convertible or expandable. A critical manpower assumption is that adequate facilities will be available for housing and training the reconstituted force. In addressing these key and critical assumptions, operational planners should conduct more detailed logistics planning and more exercises like Proud Spirit to identify and solve problems in advance. Also, technological intelligence requirements should be identified, and operational art, rather than logistics super abundance, should be stressed.