The Principles of War - Lessons from Military History on Strategy, Tactics, Doctrine and Leadership. 33 - The practice of Mission Command
Mar 17, 2019
Dive into the complexities of mission command, where contemporary military doctrine meets real-world challenges. Discover how effective delegation empowers combat operations, especially during peacekeeping missions in Bosnia. Explore the critical balance between initiative and accountability, driven by a clear commander's intent. Learn from the successes and failures of Nordbat 2 versus Dutchbat 3, emphasizing the importance of trust and communication amidst evolving leadership dynamics in high-pressure situations.
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Nordbat 2 vs Dutchbat in Bosnia
- Nordbat 2 successfully protected civilians and prosecuted war crimes in Bosnia.
- Dutchbat operated under restrictive rules, failing to protect civilians effectively.
Value of Disciplined Initiative
- Disciplined initiative allows leaders to adapt actions when conditions change.
- They act within intent and report deviations promptly.
Moltke's Major Story
- Prince Frederick Karl praised a major for knowing when not to obey orders.
- This story embodies the essence of mission command allowing judgment over blind obedience.