OFFICER AND COMMANDER IN ASYMMETRIC WARFARE OPERATIONS

Abstract

Starting from the data of a field research conducted among soldiers with asymmetric warfare experiences from nine different countries, the author seeks to identify and shed light on the various problems that officers with command responsibilities had to face during their missions. A picture emerges of feelings and experiences relating to their first impression upon arriving in the theatre, relations with local armed forces, relations with the local population and local authorities, relations with NGOs, relations with other armies, the impact of the rules of engagement (ROEs), training and education, and operational experiences. The paper ends with a discussion of the lessons learned.

Keywords

• Asymmetric
• Operations
• Professional
• Local
• Armed Forces