Organizing Joint Forces for Information Operations

A number of sources advocate creating a separate information component headed by a joint force information operations component commander (JFIOCC) as the best way to integrate information operations (IO) into joint forces. Though attractive on the surface, detailed investigation demonstrates that the JFIOCC is not a viable structure for joint force IO. The JFIOCC concept goes against the long-established principles of war. Specifically, structuring IO under a JFIOCC violates the principles of unity of command and simplicity. Another problem with creating a JFIOCC is the potential isolation of IO from other assets within the theater, reducing synergy. Concentrating joint force IO in a JFIOCC construct fails to recognize that information operations can be conducted on a global scale. The joint force must recognize its vulnerability to information attack from beyond its area of responsibility and the vulnerability of forces located outside the theater. The research concludes by offering an overview of alternative structures for integrating IO into joint forces.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.