Transforming Command: The Pursuit of Mission Command in the U.S., British, and Israeli Armies

On today's complex, fragmented, fast-moving battlefield, where combatants adapt constantly to exploit one-another's weaknesses, there is a demonstrable requirement for military commanders to devolve a high level of autonomy of decision-making and action to leaders on the ground. An effective model for doing this has existed for some time in the form of mission command and has been utilized by the U.S., Israeli, and British Armies--but with mixed success. This book examines in depth the experiences of the armed forces of each of these countries in implementing mission command, and reveals the key factors that have determined the success or failure of the implementation--factors such as the Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA), the spread of low-intensity conflicts and operations other than war, and differences in how military cultures interpret, articulate, and exercise the command function. It has significant implications for both the development of military doctrine and the training and education of tomorrow's military leaders.

Author: Eitan Shamir
Publisher: Stanford Security Studies
Published: 01/26/2011
Pages: 288
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.83lbs
Size: 8.90h x 6.00w x 0.70d
ISBN13: 9780804772037
ISBN10: 0804772037
BISAC Categories:
- Technology & Engineering | Military Science
- Political Science | Security (National & International)
- Political Science | Political Freedom

About the Author
Eitan Shamir is a Research Fellow at the Dado Center for Interdisciplinary Military Studies, Israeli Defense Forces, and teaches in the Security Studies program at Tel Aviv University. His military experience includes service in the IDF's paratroops brigade and as a reserve officer in the IDF's Organizational Psychology Unit.