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Assessing Irregular Warfare: A Framework for Intelligence Analysis

Name: Assessing Irregular Warfare: A Framework for Intelligence Analysis
Author: Eric V. Larson
ISBN: 9780833043221

by Eric V. Larson

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Overview

The objective of this study was to provide an analytic framework for intelligence analysis of irregular warfare (IW) environments that could be used as the basis for a subsequent IW intelligence analysis curriculum development effort. The authors conducted a review of recent policy, strategy, doctrinal, and other materials pertaining to IW, concluding that although the term irregular warfare remains somewhat nebulous, situations considered within the realm of IW generally can be thought of in terms of two main stylized types: (1) population-centric IW situations, which include such missions as counterinsurgency, foreign internal defense, and support to insurgency, where the indigenous population is the center of gravity; and (2) counterterrorism operations, whether conducted as one element of a theater commander's campaign or as part of the U.S. Special Operations Command-led global war on terrorism, where a cellular network is being targeted. The authors identify the intelligence and analytic requirements associated with each of these two stylized forms of IW and describe a top-down framework, or analytic procedure, that can be used for assessing IW environments. Also included is a list of references to IW-relevant doctrinal publications.

Synopsis

Provides an analytic framework and procedure for the intelligence analysis of irregular warfare (IW) environments that can serve as the basis for IW intelligence curriculum development efforts. Defines IW in terms of two stylized situations: population-centric (such as counterinsurgency) and counterterrorism. Provides a detailed review of IW-relevant defense policy and strategy documents and a list of relevant doctrinal publications.

About the Author, Eric V. Larson

Eric Larson (Ph.D., Policy Analysis, RAND Graduate School) is a policy analyst at RAND with nearly two decades of experience, primarily in national security and foreign affairs.

Derek Eaton (Ph.D. University of Chicago, Political Science, August 1998) is a consultant at RAND.

Thomas S. Szayna (M.A., International Relations, Claremont Graduate School) is the associate director of the Strategy, Doctrine, and Resources Program, Arroyo Center at RAND. His research focus includes strategic planning, NATO, and military force structure.