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Abstract This article 1 argues that thinking is more difficult than we might imagine. Explaining the purpose of thinking and examining some of the issues we all face, the author concludes that the Army has problems with thinking. We must address issues with the way we think as individuals, in teams and organisationally if the Army is to become truly adaptive. ... there are no positions in Army or the NAG [non-Army Group] that list critical thinking skills as either a desirable or mandatory requirement. 2 …

Abstract Afghanistan is an increasingly complex environment set to test our traditional approaches to planning and problem solving. With an evolving commitment, an ambitious force development plan up to 2030 and competing demands, there is a need for planners from all services to consider more innovative and adaptive approaches to mission planning. This article offers a few thoughts based on the author’s experience in Afghanistan to aid in stimulating new approaches to both this and future operational …

Abstract In this article the author contends, from his own experience as a combat team commander, that commanders must first undertake significant self-preparation before preparing for command. This, coupled with a deep understanding of the combat team and the stressors that confront them, will enable commanders to exercise their command with maximum effectiveness. Introduction The good general is simply a good company commander in his postgraduate course. – S L A Marshall 1 One of the most rewarding …

Abstract In these times of economic frugality, the Army needs to consider all the avenues and opportunities available for the training and development of our soldiers and throw away some long held beliefs about how and by whom competence can be assessed and awarded. This article examines workplace learning and the contribution of Communities of Practice, Learning and Labour Networks to the gaining of knowledge, competence and expertise by our soldiers. Communities of practice’ is a term coined to describe …

Abstract This paper examines whether Army is preparing our soldiers with the skills to operate within a complex human environment. Recent operational experience has outlined that the key to success on operations is winning over the hearts and minds of the local population and denying support to the insurgents both physically and morally. Currently, our training is predominantly focused on providing the hard warfighting skills to be successful in a conventional war. There is no argument that this is …

Abstract This article identifies the unique ability a platoon group has to achieve success in the complex battlespace. The author takes his experiences as a platoon group commander in Afghanistan and shows that doctrine and combined arms theory have a place in the modern complex battlespace. The article explains that the fundamental infantry platoon cannot be effective in Afghanistan without key enablers from all corps. It further details the importance of fostering relationships between corps to improve …

Abstract The 2nd Division’s Army Reserve Response Force (RRF) was established after a series of overseas terrorist incidents in 2001–02 and has carved out a niche role in the area of public safety. Since 2006 RRF trained soldiers deployed on no less than three domestic event support operations and three disaster response operations. This article focuses on experiences in NSW, and argues that the RRF Defence Aid to the Civilian Community (DACC) role in public safety for major events and disaster response is …

Abstract The high demand historically placed on engineers by an amphibious landing force after it has deployed ashore requires that the manner that Australian Army engineers fit into Australia’s Amphibious Concept be established in order for the ADF to successfully execute amphibious operations, prior to any future such commitment. The list of engineering tasks needed to support the full spectrum of operations in the current and future operating environments is quite extensive, thereby an ad hoc engineer …

Abstract This article argues against the hasty adoption of conceptually questionable ‘doctrine’ inspired by the notion of ‘population-centric operations’, and instead proposes that military professionals may be better served by reviewing the validity of earlier doctrinal precepts, and applying them to contemporary and future mission sets. The article cautions against a conceptual fallacy wherein the Army is considering developing doctrine that envisages a military force conducting either Joint Land Combat …

Abstract Today’s interconnected operating environment is presenting complex problems which are placing considerable stress and pressures on military decision-makers. The concepts within the emerging field of Complex Adaptive Systems science offer significant potential as a superior method for addressing these complex problems. Using an analysis of the applicability of CAS theory to contemporary military problems and research undertaken by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation, this article …