Abstract This article examines Israel’s capacity for deterrence. Unlike classical deterrence, where the use of force constitutes failure, the differing cost-benefit calculus of irregular enemies means that Israel must occasionally exercise its military power to demonstrate that it retains the will to act when not existentially threatened. While Israel’s ability to deter conventional and nuclear attacks from its state-based neighbours remains strong, the author finds that its capability to deter non-state …

Abstract This article examines the use and effectiveness of retention bonuses in the Australian Army. These bonuses have been implemented at considerable expense despite the absence of a solid basis of empirical research regarding either their effectiveness or the potentially unintended consequences that can arise from their payment. The author examines each of these issues in turn and concludes that retention bonuses, despite their questionable logic and rationale, are still useful as a temporary measure …

Abstract Infantry have long aspired to the ideal of ‘one shot, one kill’ in marksmanship training, but this article proves that, especially in complex terrain, infantry are better served by employing the ‘volume of fire’ approach to psychologically dominate the enemy. Only then can the significant challenges of poor visibility and fleeting engagement opportunities be successfully overcome and manoeuvre restored to the light infantryman. In the matter-of-fact terms of Australian Army doctrine the role of …

Abstract Simply being aware of cultural ‘dos and don’ts’ is insufficient to ensure truly gainful cooperation with a host populace, especially when the Army is waging counterinsurgency campaigns in complex, urban battlespaces. Taking cultural awareness ‘to the next level’ is the subject of this article, which details lessons from the Army’s arguably expert force regarding this topic: the Regional Force Surveillance Units (RFSUs). The authors examine the major aspects of the RFSUs community engagement …

Abstract The Australian Army is a fighting force that depends upon the combined arms approach to generate operational effectiveness. This approach works only when each part of the team can contribute appropriate effects in the face of opposition. The author argues that the Australian Army’s combat engineers are incapable of providing mobility assurance in the face of opposition because of shortcomings with their equipment. The author demonstrates the negative effect this will have on future operational …

Abstract This article discusses Human Intelligence (HUMINT) as a potential solution to the problem of gathering intelligence on highly agile and adaptive threat networks in complex environments. The article examines why HUMINT is effective in supporting the new forms of small team, semi-autonomous operations proposed by the Australian Army in the future as well as the cultural and historical qualities of its soldiers. The author proposes the adoption of a HUMINT-centric approach to land force operations …

Abstract Today’s operations represent complex, uncertain battles against enemies concealed among a population whose support is critical to victory. This article examines the importance of Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) capabilities in the Australian Army, demonstrating its potentially vital role in the range of ADF operations. The author articulates the benefits that can accrue to ADF commanders when a properly integrated and coordinated CIMIC effort is undertaken. The author calls for the official …

Abstract This article examines the critical role that the Royal Australian Corps of Military Police (RACMP) can play in enacting multiple recommendations made within the government’s Interoperability Review Between the Australian Defence Force and the Australian Federal Police for Regional Stabilisation Operations . The author demonstrates the strong links already established between RACMP and AFP, and how their shared operational experiences and similar tactical approach can be harnessed to effect new …

Major Mark Sargent is currently the Staff Officer Grade 2 – Cavalry at Army Headquarters. He is a Cavalry officer, with regimental service at the 2nd Cavalry Regiment and B Squadron 3rd/4th Cavalry Regiment, in addition to numerous training and staff appointments in Australia and the United States. He has operational experience in Iraq and Afghanistan. … Mark …

Abstract The laws of war have always been complex and open to interpretation due to their international nature. While the Rome Diplomatic Conference saw the creation of a single international criminal code that has since been adopted by 106 different states, there is still room for significant interpretation within even this legal regime. This article argues that, in the heat of battle, when powerful instincts for self-preservation cloud the soldier’s judgment, ADF personnel may simply be incapable of …