Digital Commons Network^™

It’S The Chain That Broke It: The Strategic Supply Chains Underpinning National Security, Gregory M. Tomlin

Joint Force Quarterly

Strategic supply chain vulnerabilities threaten the Department of Defense’s (DOD) ability to maintain readiness and protect national security. Global supply chains, often dependent on multiple subcontractor tiers, are highly prone to disruptions from geopolitical events, foreign interference, cybersecurity risks, and shortages of critical materials, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic and in delays like those affecting F-35 production. To address these challenges, the DOD must adopt "strategic supply chains" as a core concept in its doctrine, emphasizing continuous risk assessment and safeguards like multisourcing, supply chain nerve centers, and contingency planning. Updating key policies and doctrines, such as Joint Publications …

Bullets, Bandages, And Fairy Dust: Improving Dmo Health Services Support With Wargaming, Debra D. Buckland-Coffey, Robert P. Gerbracht, Kengo Nishida, William R. Gureck

Joint Force Quarterly

Health services support is a critical yet often overlooked component of distributed maritime operations (DMO) and expeditionary advanced base operations (EABO). In exercises and wargames, medical logistics are frequently “fairy dusted”—assumed to function without realistic planning—despite the immense challenges of managing high casualty rates, complex supply chains, and limited evacuation timelines in contested environments like the Indo-Pacific. This article highlights the need for better integration of health services into wargames and exercises, emphasizing the importance of realistic scenarios, multilateral cooperation, and investment in modeling tools. By addressing these gaps, military planners can improve readiness, reduce risks, and better prepare for …

Updating The Tacs/Aags For Large-Scale Combat Operations, Matthew Neuenswander

Joint Force Quarterly

The Theater Air Control System (TACS) and Army Air-Ground System (AAGS) have been critical frameworks for coordinating air and ground operations between the U.S. Army and Air Force since the Vietnam War. Designed to synchronize air support, airspace control, and joint fires, the system has evolved to meet changing military strategies, including today’s shift from counterinsurgency to large-scale combat operations. However, challenges persist, such as gaps in airspace management, fires integration, and resource allocation, particularly with the Air Force’s downsizing of Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) personnel. Conflicting priorities, coalition partner limitations, and new Army structures like the Multi-Domain Task …

Is The Pla Overestimating The Potential Of Artificial Intelligence?, Koichiro Takagi

Joint Force Quarterly

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into its military modernization strategy, or "intelligentization," aiming to develop a world-class military capable of designing future warfare. This article reviews over 370 PLA Daily articles to assess how the PLA envisions AI transforming key areas of warfare, including situational awareness, decisionmaking, unmanned weapons, and cognitive domain operations. While the PLA anticipates significant advantages, it also acknowledges the risks of system malfunctions, biased data, ethical dilemmas, and adversarial manipulation. Despite these limitations, the PLA remains committed to leveraging AI to create new forms of warfare, emphasizing the importance of proactive …

Celtic Security In The Atlantic: How Does Ireland Secure Europe’S Western Flank?, Patrick J. Smith

Joint Force Quarterly

Ireland plays a crucial role in protecting Europe’s western flank, but growing Russian aggression has exposed serious gaps in its security. With a small, outdated naval fleet, limited air capabilities, and inadequate radar systems, Ireland struggles to defend its airspace, waters, and critical undersea cables—vital infrastructure that carries 97% of transatlantic data and underpins global communication and security. These vulnerabilities have made Ireland a target for Russian sabotage and incursions, posing risks to Europe and the transatlantic alliance.

The article explores two paths for Ireland to address these security challenges: joining NATO or seeking Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with …

The Urgency Of Warfighting Renewal: Five Principles For Today’S Professional Military Education, Christopher M. Marcell, Gaylon L. Mcalpine, Reagan E. Schaupp, Joseph L. Varuolo

Joint Force Quarterly

This article highlights the urgent need to reform Professional Military Education (PME) to prioritize warfighting skills and strategic thinking, as called for in the 2018 National Defense Strategy. Despite recent updates to include China and Russia-focused content, PME programs remain misaligned with their core mission of developing leaders proficient in the art and science of war.

A key challenge is the growing number of external requirements unrelated to warfighting—such as climate security and diversity initiatives—that dilute PME’s focus and weaken instructional quality. The authors recommend establishing a central authority to vet these requirements and ensure they align with warfighting priorities. …

Being Believed: Persuasion And The Narrative In Military Operations, Brent A. Lawniczak

Joint Force Quarterly

This article examines the vital role of persuasive narratives in modern military operations, highlighting their power to shape perceptions, influence behavior, and achieve strategic objectives across the competition continuum. Narratives are described as unifying stories that provide context, coherence, and clarity to military actions, ensuring alignment between words and deeds while promoting credibility and unity of effort.

The article also explores the key elements of effective narratives—setting, characters, plot, and moral—and identifies factors that enhance their persuasiveness. These include emotional appeal, simplicity, consistency with audience values, relatable characters, trust in the narrator, and resonance with cultural and historical contexts.

Military …

The Art Of Campaigning: Joint Planners Working At The Intersections Of Everything, Mary Bell, Edgar M. Hollandsworth, Thomas J. Snukis, Jeffrey Turner, Luke P. Bellocchi, Nicholas Anthony, Steve Tribble, Chris Botterbusch, Justin D. Harper

Joint Force Quarterly

This article examines the evolution of military campaigning from traditional large-scale combat operations to ongoing efforts that shape the global environment and achieve long-term strategic goals. It highlights the role of Combatant Command Campaign Plans (CCPs) in aligning national strategies with operational objectives and addressing modern challenges like cyber, cognitive, and information warfare.

Key topics include the importance of a Combatant Commander’s (CCDR) vision, the integration of global and regional plans, and the use of strategic wargaming to refine approaches. The article also addresses challenges such as delays in guidance, fragmented planning structures, and adapting to dynamic environments.

Finally, it …

Adopting A Data-Centric Mindset For Operational Planning, Jeremiah Hurley, Morgan Greene

Joint Force Quarterly

The Department of Defense (DOD) is investing heavily in advanced technologies, but its true advantage lies in adopting a data-centric mindset that prioritizes the collection, integration, and use of data to drive faster, smarter decision-making. To modernize its outdated operational planning processes, the DOD must replace static tools like PowerPoint and spreadsheets with real-time data visualizations, automated systems, and standardized data collection templates. By formalizing a "data-first" culture, operational planning can identify and address critical information gaps, improve battlefield awareness, and accelerate mission execution. This approach enables commanders to make more informed decisions while unlocking the full potential of artificial …

Preparing For Adversary Employment Of Nonstrategic Nuclear Weapons: Tactical Effects, Operational Impacts, Strategic Implications, James H. Gifford

Joint Force Quarterly

For over 30 years after the Cold War, the U.S. largely dismissed the threat of tactical nuclear weapons on the battlefield. However, recent nuclear threats from adversaries like Russia have highlighted the need to revisit U.S. strategies. Tactical nuclear weapons differ from strategic ones by their delivery systems, not their destructive power. On the battlefield, they could cause casualties, disrupt missions, and overwhelm medical resources. Operationally, they could create logistical challenges, civilian panic, and delays in military responses. Strategically, even a limited nuclear strike could escalate quickly, requiring leaders to carefully balance deterrence, messaging, and responses to avoid all-out nuclear …

Executive Summary, William T. Eliason

Joint Force Quarterly

This issue of Joint Force Quarterly explores the fall of Bashar al-Asad’s regime in Syria, marking a major geopolitical shift with significant implications for the Middle East and beyond. It examines the role of U.S. and NATO strategies in this outcome and raises critical questions about post-conflict support and the future military posture in the region.

Key topics include managing risk in U.S. national security decisions, the strategic implications of Russia’s vast nonstrategic nuclear arsenal, and the rising role of artificial intelligence in military planning. Insights are provided on enhancing joint warfighting capabilities, improving military education, and modernizing command systems …

Joint Force Quarterly, Issue 116, 1st Quarter 2025, National Defense University Press

Joint Force Quarterly

Joint Force Quarterly 116 explores key challenges and innovations in military strategy, operations, and global security. The Forum section examines how the U.S. approaches risk in its strategy, the impact of nonstrategic nuclear weapons, and the importance of using data-driven methods in planning military operations.

In JPME Today, articles focus on how joint military campaigns succeed, the role of storytelling and persuasion in operations, and the urgent need to modernize professional military education.

The Commentary section highlights Ireland's strategic role in securing Europe’s western flank and evaluates whether China’s military overestimates the potential of artificial intelligence.

The Features section dives …

Giving Our “Paper Tiger” Real Teeth: Fixing The U.S. Military’S Plans For Contested Logistics Against China, Zachary S. Hughes

Joint Force Quarterly

This article explores the growing concerns about the U.S. military’s ability to deter or win a conflict with China in the Western Pacific, focusing on the role of logistics in future military success. China’s advanced missile systems pose a significant threat to the U.S.'s traditional deployment strategies, leading the Marine Corps, Army, and Air Force to adopt dispersed operations to enhance survivability. These strategies have proven logistically unsustainable due to their high resource demands and coordination challenges. The article also highlights technological innovations, such as sea-based resupply, additive manufacturing, alternative energy sources, and AI, which offer potential logistical improvements. However, …

The Joint Functions: Theory, Doctrine, And Practice, Matthew J. Tackett

Joint Force Quarterly

This article explores the complexities of military conflict and the frameworks used to navigate it. He begins by defining conflict as a serious disagreement that often leads to chaos, emphasizing the need for structure and order in warfare. Historical perspectives, including insights from Carl von Clausewitz, underscore the importance of understanding military functions to enable effective command and operational strategies. Tackett details the seven joint functions outlined in Joint Publication (JP) 3-0: command and control, information, intelligence, fires, movement and maneuver, protection, and sustainment. He highlights the ongoing tension between military theory, doctrine, and practical application, stressing the need for …

The Fragile Balance Of Terror: Deterrence In The New Nuclear Age, John William Sutcliffe Iv

Joint Force Quarterly

This book revisits the precarious nature of nuclear deterrence. Contemporary challenges—such as the multipolarity of nuclear powers, personalistic regimes, and the influence of social media—present new risks not seen during the Cold War. Contributors analyze these challenges alongside enduring issues, such as nuclear sufficiency and the survivability of nuclear forces. Deterrence cannot be taken for granted, especially in light of evolving technologies and the complex political dynamics of today’s nuclear powers.

The Military Legacy Of Alexander The Great: Lessons For The Information Age, Robert D. Spessert

Joint Force Quarterly

This book review examines the relevance of Alexander the Great's military strategies and leadership for contemporary national security challenges. The book addresses issues such as military organization, battle strategy, and the human dimensions of warfare. The authors illustrate how Alexander navigated political and military obstacles, emphasizing the importance of information in warfare and the consequences of mission creep during his campaigns in Central Asia and India. They highlight how his strategic choices after the Battle of Issus secured resources while underscoring the human aspect of conflict. The book also critiques Alexander's failures, including his treatment of Greek mercenaries, which raised …

Don’T Let’S Be Beastly To The Germans: The British Occupation Of Germany, 1945–49, Michael C. Davies

Joint Force Quarterly

In this book review, Daniel Cowling offers a compelling examination of the British efforts in post-conflict reconstruction following World War II. Drawing from his doctoral research and archival insights, Cowling narrates the complex dynamics of the British Army of the Rhine and the Control Commission Germany during the occupation. The book is organized into five parts, exploring the foundations of the occupation, the challenges of implementation, the ensuing crises, and the eventual adaptation that led to a successful transition towards German sovereignty. Cowling grapples with the paradox of balancing justice and empathy towards the German populace, raising critical questions about …

From Sparta To Hostomel: The Enduring Role Of Joint Forcible Entry Operations, Jonathan Maxwell Cohen

Joint Force Quarterly

Since World War II, the U.S. military has relied on global access to intermediate staging bases for the uncontested massing of combat power. However, recent advancements in antiaccess/area-denial (A2/AD) networks by strategic competitors like Russia and China threaten this capability. This article examines the historical context and current challenges of Joint Forcible Entry Operations (JFEO), emphasizing their necessity in future conflicts despite these threats. Analyzing the Russian military’s unsuccessful air assault at Hostomel Airport during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine provides critical insights into the complexities and risks associated with JFEOs. While the inherent risks of forcible entry operations have …

Better In Pairs: Divide The Indo-Pacific Theater In Half, Tim Devine

Joint Force Quarterly

This article explores the rationale for dividing the Indo-Pacific Theater into two geographic combatant commands to improve command and control, particularly in the face of growing strategic competition with China. The Department of Defense (DOD) reviews its Unified Command Plan (UCP) every two years, adjusting geographic boundaries and missions. Given the Indo-Pacific's vast size, rising security threats, and operational demands, USINDOPACOM's current structure may be insufficient. The article argues that dividing the theater, similar to the successful dual command model used during World War II in the Pacific, would ease command burdens, enhance strategic effectiveness, and better prepare the U.S. …

The Need For U.S. Stability Policing, John F. Hussey

Joint Force Quarterly

The article advocates for the creation of a U.S. Military Police Stability Battalion to enhance the country's ability to maintain peace in conflict zones. By integrating interagency law enforcement assets, such as the Department of Justice and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, this battalion would rapidly deploy and tailor operations to regional needs, such as countering trafficking. While not involved in military or counterinsurgency training, the battalion would require military protection. Establishing this capability would reduce reliance on allies, provide greater flexibility for commanders, and help prevent fragile states from collapsing, ultimately saving costs by investing …

The Profession Of Arms: What Scholars, Practitioners, And Others Of Note Have Had To Say, Gregory D. Foster

Joint Force Quarterly

The article discusses the evolution of military expertise and national security management in the context of modern challenges. James Stavridis, Ervin J. Rokke, and Terry C. Pierce argue that the traditional concept of military expertise, as defined by Samuel Huntington—focused on the "management of violence"—is outdated. They suggest that today’s military professionals are better described as "managers of effects," which includes both kinetic (physical force) and nonkinetic (cyber, soft power) capabilities. They emphasize the importance of civilian leadership in defining strategic objectives while the military manages a broader array of tools to achieve desired outcomes. James Locher adds that the …

Ethical Leadership Development: Highlights From The Past And A Glimpse Of The Future, Elias Ursitti, Eric J. Weis, Donald P. Loren

Joint Force Quarterly

This article explores the critical role of ethical leadership in shaping organizational cultures, particularly within military contexts. It emphasizes that senior leaders must implement peer accountability and foster ethically healthy environments to prevent common ethical pitfalls. Organizational culture, shaped by leadership behavior, can either promote a virtuous cycle of ethical conduct or lead to negative consequences. Leaders are encouraged to create climates that value critical thinking, transparency, and the courage to challenge unethical behavior. Additionally, intercultural sensitivity is essential for inclusive leadership. The article also reflects on the future of ethical leadership, acknowledging the immense pressure to compromise ethics in …

Stop Talking To Yourself: Military Recruiting In The Modern Age, Richard R. Bell, Elizabeth Goldsmith, Robert Martinez, Donghyun Lee

Joint Force Quarterly

This article explores strategies to enhance military recruitment, particularly targeting Generation Z, by focusing on reconnecting veterans with society, implementing internships and mentorships, and engaging key influencers such as parents and educators. Key initiatives include partnering with veteran organizations to highlight military benefits, offering military internships to introduce youth to nontraditional military career paths, and strengthening outreach to influencers, especially parents, who significantly impact enlistment decisions. By improving media use and public engagement, the military can reshape its image for the next generation, aligning recruitment efforts with youth values and concerns.

Considering The Utility Of Modern Blockade In A Protracted Conflict With China, Thomas A. Krasnicki

Joint Force Quarterly

This article explores whether a U.S.-led maritime blockade could be an effective strategy in a prolonged conflict with China, particularly if China attempts to take Taiwan by force. Drawing from historical examples, such as the Union blockade during the Civil War and the Allied blockade of Germany in WWI, targeting China’s heavy reliance on maritime imports and exports could destabilize its economy and apply pressure on the Chinese Communist Party. However, China’s advanced naval capabilities, robust land-based defenses, and diplomatic challenges with neutral states add layers of difficulty. The article highlights the need to balance two conflicting approaches: countervalue operations …

Winners Of The 2024 Essay Competitions, National Defense University Press

Joint Force Quarterly

The 2024 Essay Competitions, hosted by NDU Press, saw a wide array of thought-provoking submissions across three categories, emphasizing civilian-military coordination and national security strategy. The competitions included the Secretary of Defense National Security Essay Competition, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Strategic Essay Competitions, and the Joint Force Quarterly Maerz Awards. Winners explored topics like U.S. military logistics in the face of Chinese threats, modern blockade tactics, and military recruitment challenges in the digital age. The awards continue to foster innovative ideas and strategic thinking within professional military education institutions.

Cbrn Defense Readiness Reporting, Jeffrey A. French-Lujan, Taylor Harrington, Ron Fizer, Domah Diggs

Joint Force Quarterly

This article advocates for the implementation of standardized Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) defense reporting metrics within military services. The need for such standardization is critical to accurately assess joint force preparedness, enabling commanders and planners to understand CBRN readiness, mitigate operational risks, and optimize training and modernization efforts. Standardized metrics will lead to better reporting, offering more insight into material readiness issues, trends, and force sustainability. Additionally, these metrics will support informed decision-making for defense investments and risk management, ensuring that forces are ready to defend national interests and respond effectively to CBRN threats.

The Implications Of The New Security Environment On The National Health Systems Enterprise, Martin Charles Bricknell, Derek Licina

Joint Force Quarterly

This article explores the strategic integration of military and civilian health systems in response to large-scale conflicts, emphasizing the critical role of civil-military cooperation. NATO's experience with the war in Ukraine highlights the importance of interoperable health systems across the Euro-Atlantic region, while the Asia-Pacific presents unique challenges due to its geographic dispersal and alliance structures. The U.S. National Disaster Medical System, strengthened by lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, is positioned to manage medical evacuations and casualties in future contingencies. The article advocates for the U.S. military health system to be considered as strategically vital as the defense-industrial complex, underscoring …

The Key To Arctic Dominance: Establishing An Arctic-Focused Subordinate Unified Command, Joseph R. Blume, Nathan L. Golike, Geoffrey R. Latimer, Michael Stanski

Joint Force Quarterly

This article discusses the strategic importance of establishing an Arctic-focused subordinate unified command under USNORTHCOM to enhance the responsiveness and resilience of the U.S. Armed Forces. With climate change reducing sea ice and increasing shipping and resource exploration, the Arctic is becoming a critical region for global security. USNORTHCOM is well-positioned to lead these efforts, aligning with national strategies and leveraging its homeland defense mission through NORAD. The proposed Arctic Command would play a vital role in coordinating military operations and addressing emerging security concerns in this rapidly evolving region.

Joint Force Quarterly, Issue 115, 4th Quarter 2024, National Defense University Press

Joint Force Quarterly

This JFQ issue highlights a range of military and security issues, including Arctic defense, health system impacts, and military readiness, while celebrating the achievements of joint professional military education and student essays on national security topics.

China’S Forever War: What If A Taiwan Invasion Fails?, Joel Wuthnow

Strategic Forums

This Strategic Forum by Dr. Joel Wuthnow, in the INSS Center for the Study of Chinese Military Affairs, examines the strategic consequences of a failed People’s Republic of China (PRC) attempt to invade Taiwan. Rather than assuming defeat would restore deterrence or compel Beijing to abandon its objectives, the article argues that a failed invasion could lock China into a prolonged, coercive conflict—a “forever war”—marked by sustained military pressure, economic coercion, gray-zone operations, and heightened escalation risks. Drawing on Chinese strategic culture, leadership risk tolerance, and civil-military dynamics, the analysis explores how Beijing might adapt politically and militarily following failure, …