Command and Control

This study examines issues facing the U.S. military command and control structure in the Arctic. Specifically, given recent climate changes, the resulting potential threats, and the missions set forth by the commander in chief, what is the most effective command and control structure to provide the requisite unity of command and unity of effort in the Arctic? Looking through the lens of the U.S. Army's design model this study first defines the environment of the Arctic Region as it relates to the changing national security threat facing the United States. This environmental frame discusses recent climate changes and their effects on transportation, shipping, natural resources, and international relationships. Next, given the environmental context, this study establishes four potential problems that would require military employment. These military employment problems are military to military relationships, disaster relief, search and rescue, and violent conflict. This monograph proposes three command and control options to be examined as they relate to the previously identified problems. These three options include redefining geographic combatant command boundaries, assigning a standing Joint Task Force, or maintaining the existing command and control structure. Finally, through a subjective analysis of various command and control options available to the U.S. military, this study provides a recommendation as to the most effective option. The significance of this study is its examination of an emerging national security threat on our nation's northern border through the lens of design. While many military scholars have written on the changes in the Arctic Region, and its implications, few posit any real change to our military structure that would prepare the U.S. to meet the corresponding challenges. Using the Army's new design paradigm provides an opportunity to examine this complex issue more holistically and provide a better solution set to policy makers. Althou