military doctrine It is a set of guides that serve to provide military forces with a better plan of actions and decisions on the battlefield. Next, we will talk about it.
Definition and meaning of a military doctrine
Its concept and definition is a set of principles, tactics, techniques, procedures and strategies that guide actions and decisions of the military forces in the fulfillment of their missions and objectives. In essence, it establishes a conceptual and practical framework for the use of combat effectiveness and the conduct of operations on the battlefield.
Military doctrine acts as the result of experience, research and analysis of lessons learned in past conflicts, it is reviewed and updated based on new threats and challenges. Furthermore, military doctrine may vary between different countries of a continent or even within the same nation. It depends on factors such as geography, climate, culture, resources, and the threats faced by each army in society.
Among some nations, for example, there is the US military doctrine that focuses on flexibility. Along with other aspects such as adaptability and the ability to operate in a wide range of scenarios. They work from direct combat to humanitarian aid operation. For its part, Colombian military doctrine focuses on the fight against drug trafficking and terrorism. This has evolved in response to the long history of internal armed conflicts in Colombia.
The Bolivarian military doctrine is a strategy that is based on the ideals of the liberator Simón Bolívar and seeks to defend national sovereignty. In addition to promoting the unity and integration of Latin America and the Caribbean, and guaranteeing the security and protection of the human rights of the population. It does this by developing military capabilities and cooperating with other nations. Finally, the Spanish military doctrine focuses on interoperability with other NATO countries, the protection of national interests and participation in international peace and security missions.
In short though each of these military doctrines has its own specific characteristics and approaches. But all seek to ensure the efficacy and safety of military operations and continually evolve in response to changing threats and challenges on the battlefield.
Is military doctrine and the doctrine of war the same?
They are two related but different concepts. military doctrine is set Of Principles, tactics, techniques, procedures and strategies that guide the actions and decisions of the military forces in the fulfillment of their missions and objectives. That is, it is a set of rules and guidelines that are applied in the planning, organization, execution, and evaluation of military operations.
On the other hand, the doctrine of war refers to the theory and concepts governing the use of military force in the context of an armed conflict. That is, it is a conceptual framework that defines the nature, objectives, strategies, and consequences of combat. In other words, the military doctrine is based on the practical application of guerrilla principles, while the war doctrine focuses on the theoretical understanding of armed problems.
What is the goal of military doctrine?
The main objective of military doctrine is give a conceptual and practical framework for the effective use of military force in the achievement of the strategic and operational objectives of a nation or a military organization. In essence, the purpose of the doctrine is to guide and direct the thought and action of the military forces in the design and execution of their operations. This includes the definition of general principles. As specific tactics, techniques, procedures and strategies that must be applied in a wide range of operational situations.
Military doctrine also seeks ensure consistency and continuity in the way that the forces of a nation or an organization train and operate. This allows an effectiveness and efficiency in the use of military resources, as well as a greater capacity to face the threats and challenges that arise in the strategic and operational environment.
What principles does a military doctrine follow?
They are a series of fundamental ideas that guide the decision-making and actions of military forces on the battlefield. These principles are universal and apply to all military operations, regardless of the type of conflict, geography, or technology used. Next, the seven principles of military doctrine are:
- Objectivity: Decisions are based on a rational evaluation of the available information and not on personal assumptions or biases.
- unit of command: authority and responsibility are delegated in a unified chain of command, to ensure effective coordination of actions on the battlefield.
- Security: Measures are taken to protect military forces from the risks and threats of the battlefield.
- media economy: military resources are used efficiently and effectively to achieve objectives.
- Offensive: They try to gain the initiative on the battlefield and keep the pressure on the opponent.
- Surprise: They seek to surprise the enemy to achieve a tactical or strategic advantage.
- simplicity: military operations are kept simple and direct, to avoid confusion and errors in the field.
These principles are of relevant importance for success in combat. Its proper application is crucial to ensure the security of military forces and the achievement of operational objectives. Which has been applied throughout history.
What are the elements of a military doctrine?
They include a series of components that define how military forces plan, organize, train, and operate on the battlefield. The main elements of a military doctrine are the following:
- Beginning: As mentioned before, they are the foundations on which the doctrine is based. They are universal and apply to all military operations.
- Mission: defines the purpose and objectives of a particular military operation. It is a clear and concise description of what military forces are expected to accomplish in the field.
- tactics: are the specific actions that military forces must take on the battlefield to achieve operational objectives. They are a science that includes specific techniques and procedures to execute military operations.
- Organization: refers to the way in which military forces are structured and distributed on the battlefield. This includes the definition of units, the appointment of leaders, and the assignment of specific tasks and responsibilities.
- Training: It is an essential element of military doctrine, as it is necessary to ensure that military forces are prepared to face a wide range of operational situations. Training includes training in tactical skills, the use of military technology, and training in leadership and resource management.
- Logistics: refers to the planning of the means necessary to support military operations. This includes managing supplies, repairing and maintaining equipment, transporting troops and supplies, and managing communication and intelligence.
These are some of the key elements of a military doctrine, and each one of them is essential for the success of military operations. It is a dynamic document evolves over time in response to changing threats and challenges on the battlefield.
