ational, and strategic levels, these forces need to be fully integrated into the planning and execution phases, with resources allocated and author- ities delegated to ensure their optimal use. Trusting these forces to deliver the desired effects is essential for achieving operational success. Whaley’s work is a seminal contribution to un- derstanding the dynamics of surprise in military operations, and his data underscores the critical importance of deception in achieving strategic and tactical advantages in warfare.


Synchronizing the Effects of NKA/NLE information forces for Mounted Maneuver To effectively integrate information oper- ations into mounted maneuver, it is crucial to synchronize several key elements. The planning of NKA/NLE should be treated with the same level of importance as other maneuver elements on the battlefield. The first step is to understand the range of available technologies–essentially, a menu of options–that can be requested to achieve the desired effects on the battlefield. Some of these technologies have a direct-action nature, such as operations in cyberspace or electronic warfare, which can have immediate and tangible impacts.Others, like psychological operations, are more indirect, influencing the adversary’s de- cision-making processes over time. Addi- tionally, specific supporting functions like space operations play a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of other capabilities.


When developing your maneuver graphics, it is essential to incorporate NKA/NLE planning just as you would with tradi- tional kinetic elements. After creating the Modified Combined Obstacle Overlay (MCOO) and the combined arms overlay, develop a separate NKA/NLE overlay that outlines the task and purpose of each information force available to support your operation. This overlay allows you to visualize capabilities and forces that are not easily observed in the physical domain, ensuring a more comprehen- sive approach to maneuver planning.


Collaborative Planning and Execution Collaborative planning between infor- mation and maneuver units is vital for ensuring that information operations are


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seamlessly integrated into the overall mission plan. This collaboration should extend to coordinated efforts in intelli- gence gathering, electronic warfare, and cyber operations. By working together from the outset, these units can develop a cohesive strategy that leverages the strengths of each domain, ensuring that information operations are not an after- thought but a core component of the maneuver plan.10


As previously mentioned, NKA/NLE capa- bilities take longer to materialize on the modern battlefield due to their sophisti- cated nature, extended assessment time, and the policies governing their use. This delay is also influenced by the indirect nature of NKA/NLE actions, which require a buildup to critical mass to achieve the desired effect, similar to an artillery smoke mission. In essence, NKA/NLE planning is akin to fires planning; the maneuver element must clearly define the desired effect for NKA/NLE planners.


For example, if a Battalion (BN) S3 is tasked with attacking an adversary’s battle position with a requirement to “delay the adversary’s reserve by 30 minutes,” they should integrate with NKA/NLE planners during the Brigade’s (BDE) mission analysis. This involves sharing courses of action early, providing clear guidance, and defining the end-state. By incorporating planning requirements and understanding effect lead times, the BN S3 can better enable the convergence of effects.


Interoperability


Interoperability is another critical factor in synchronizing information effects for mounted maneuver. It involves ensuring that the information systems and plat- forms used by mounted units are compat- ible with broader information networks. This compatibility is essential for real-time data sharing and communication across different units and domains. When systems are interoperable, mounted units can seamlessly access and share intelligence, updates, and other crucial information, enhancing their ability to respond to dyn- amic battlefield conditions.11


Real-Time Coordination


Effective synchronization of information effects also requires real-time coordina- tion. Utilizing advanced communication


tools and technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, allows for dynamic synchronization of operations. These technologies can ana- lyze vast amounts of data and provide actionable insights in real-time, enabling commanders to make informed decisions quickly. Real-time coordination ensures that information operations remain agile and responsive, adapting to the fluid na- ture of the battlefield.12


Training and Doctrine Finally, the integration of information operations into mounted maneuver must be supported by robust training programs and doctrinal frameworks. These programs should emphasize the importance of in- formation operations in a multi-domain environment, preparing units to operate effectively across all domains. By incor- porating information operations into training and doctrine, units can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to leverage NKA/NLE capabilities fully, en- suring that they are as proficient in infor- mation warfare as they are in traditional kinetic operations.13


Multi-Domain Capabilities and Information Forces Awareness It is essential for maneuver warfighters, as well as division, corps, and Army service component commands (Field Armies), to fully understand the broad spectrum of multi-domain technologies at their disposal, which can significantly enhance battlefield effectiveness. These capabilities are organized into five key information activities: enable, protect, inform, influence, and attack.14 Informa- tion forces can be drawn from various units and areas of expertise, including electronic warfare, cyber operations, psychological operations, physical de- struction, deception and operational security, public affairs, leadership engage- ments, space operations, and civil affairs. Each of these domains offers specific capabilities and skills that contribute to the synchronization of the five key infor- mation activities.15 By understanding and strategically integrating these options, commanders can optimize their opera- tions, thereby maximizing their impact in complex and dynamic environments.


Technological Enablers


Emerging technologies play a pivotal role in enhancing the synchronization of infor-


CAVALRY & ARMOR JOURNAL Fall 2024


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