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Navigating Low-Intensity Conflict: An Essential Guide for Military Operators

Joshua Reed

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Published in FM 7 98 OPERATIONS IN A LOW INTENSITY CONFLICT

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FM 7-98 OPERATIONS IN A LOW-INTENSITY CONFLICT

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6490 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	517 pages

In today's complex and ever-changing global landscape, military personnel are increasingly facing the challenges of operating in low-intensity conflict (LIC) environments. From counterinsurgency and peacekeeping missions to stability operations and unconventional warfare, LIC poses unique challenges that require specialized knowledge and skills.

To address these challenges, the United States Army has developed the definitive manual for understanding and effectively operating in LIC environments: FM 98 Operations in Low Intensity Conflict.

What is Low-Intensity Conflict?

LIC is a type of conflict that falls below the threshold of conventional warfare but is more intense than routine peacetime operations. It typically involves irregular forces, such as insurgents, guerrillas, or terrorists, who employ unconventional tactics to achieve their goals.

LIC can be protracted and complex, with no clear-cut front lines or conventional military objectives. Instead, it often involves a mix of political, economic, social, and psychological factors, making it difficult to resolve.

Challenges of Operating in LIC

Operating in LIC environments presents a number of challenges for military personnel. These challenges include:

Ambiguous enemy: In LIC, the enemy is often not well-defined, making it difficult to identify and target.
Civilian population: LIC often takes place in populated areas, where civilians are present and potentially at risk.
Prolonged operations: LIC can be protracted, with no clear end in sight.
Limited resources: Military units operating in LIC environments often have limited resources, including personnel, equipment, and supplies.

FM 98 Operations in Low Intensity Conflict

FM 98 Operations in Low Intensity Conflict is a comprehensive manual that provides military personnel with the knowledge and skills they need to operate effectively in LIC environments. The manual covers a wide range of topics, including:

Understanding LIC: FM 98 provides a detailed overview of the nature of LIC, including its characteristics, causes, and potential outcomes.
Planning for LIC: The manual outlines the key steps involved in planning for LIC operations, including intelligence collection, threat assessment, and mission planning.
Conducting LIC operations: FM 98 provides guidance on conducting a variety of LIC operations, including counterinsurgency, peacekeeping, stability operations, and unconventional warfare.
Legal and ethical considerations: The manual also discusses the legal and ethical considerations involved in LIC operations, including the use of force, the treatment of civilians, and the protection of human rights.

FM 98 Operations in Low Intensity Conflict is an essential resource for military personnel operating in LIC environments. The manual provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges of LIC, as well as the knowledge and skills needed to operate effectively in these complex and dangerous environments.

By understanding the nature of LIC, planning for LIC operations, and conducting LIC operations in a legal and ethical manner, military personnel can help to achieve mission success while minimizing the risks to themselves and others.

To learn more about FM 98 Operations in Low Intensity Conflict, please visit the following website:

https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/fm98_web.pdf

FM 7-98 OPERATIONS IN A LOW-INTENSITY CONFLICT

5 out of 5