Abstract As unconventional forces shift their efforts to attacking ‘softer’ targets—such as supply convoys, logistics bases and headquarters—to avoid the lethal firepower of combat units, soldiers that have traditionally not needed ‘skill at arms’ come under fire. The author argues that non-arms corps troops require a higher level of marksmanship training to cope with an increasing likelihood of engaging in close combat. Introduction One of the stranger actions of the Second World War occurred on 6 …

Abstract The authors argue that, based on British Army experience, Australian Army Reserve units and personnel can more easily be deployed than current policy recognises. By comparing competencies between the Australian Active Army Reserve and the British Territorial Army, and considering pre-deployment training requirements, the authors highlight that Australia could easily deploy reservists overseas under existing legal frameworks. All that is needed, they argue, based on first-hand experience, is to …

Abstract This article discusses a number of training and tactical lessons from the British Army’s Infantry Battle School. Key amongst these is the use of ‘immersion’ training ideologies to improve the effectiveness of infantry platoon commanders on operations and in the urban environment. The Platoon Commander's Battle Course The Platoon Commander’s Battle Course is an intensely demanding fourteen-week course, ten weeks of which are devoted to tactical training. The British training regime is based on a …

Abstract This article discusses Joint Information Operations in the light of the January 2006 release into the public domain of the United States Department of Defense’ (US DoD) Information Operations Roadmap dated 30 October 2003. 1 It considers how Information Operations (IO) has and is evolving in the West with particular reference to US IO policy based on the disclosure of this previously ‘SECRET NOFORN’ (No Foreigners) classified document. A Road Well Travelled By 2006, Information Operations could no …

Abstract Operation RAMP was a mass Non-combatant Evacuation Operation (NEO) from Lebanon carried out by the ADF during the war between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006. This article provides an overview of the conduct of this successful interagency operation and examines Whole of Government preparations for future interagency operations. Introduction The Australian Defence Force (ADF), as part of a whole-of-government operation, conducted a successful mass Non-combatant Evacuation Operation (NEO) of Australian …

Abstract This article, based on personal observations and experiences during this time, highlights the complex nature of reconstruction and development operations in Afghanistan (particularly in the southern province of Uruzgan), examines the approaches of the two Provincial Reconstruction Teams and proposes a way ahead for future PRTs and the Australian RTF. It is better to let them do it themselves imperfectly than to do it yourself perfectly. It is their country, their way, and our time is short. - T. …

Abstract A need for a cultural shift in the application of Australian air power is gaining wide acceptance. Reach and precision were seen as the key enablers for the application of future air power—an attempt to re-focus on more than the air-to-air approach that has guided air power theory for numerous decades. Without actually recognising it, these concepts are starting to parallel land manoeuvre theory. The drive for reach and precision at the strategic level will offer great benefit to the application …

Abstract Has contemporary strategic thought really not produced a significant idea, concept or thinker in the last half-century? The author argues that van Creveld’s proposition is distinctly unfair to the contributions of a number of other modern military writers. This article refutes van Creveld’s argument through a survey of post–Second World War strategic thought. It explores the continuing evolution of military theory through the contributions of five principal contemporary military strategists: John …

We in the Australian Army are acutely aware of our history and traditions. We honour our past and seek to learn from it. We also honour the service of those who wear our uniform today and serve the nation all across the globe. On this, our 106th birthday, I believe we have much to celebrate. We are one of the nation’s oldest and most revered institutions. We hold a special place in our nation’s consciousness and we are all proud to wear the slouch hat and Rising Sun badge. Above all, we are proud of the …

To the Editors In December of 2003, the Australian Army Journal (AAJ) editorialised that ‘the place of intellectual mastery in preparing armies for warfighting is now well established and Western military journals have often played a key role in shaping change’. It posed a series of questions linked to army personnel, education, training, force structure and how best to meet the challenges of the complex battlefield of the 21st-century. The AAJ has proven itself to be ‘the main forum for such an exchange …