In today’s complex world, the United States faces a different type of opponent from that of yesterday. Today’s opponents do not necessarily use the same type of war fighting strategies and tactics as used in a conventional war. As evidenced by the events of September 11, our opponents have adopted an irregular approach to fighting.
As an expert on irregular warfare and complex operations, Booz Allen Hamilton Principal Glenn Harned understands these tactics. In an interview for Booz Allen’s web video series “Ready for What’s Next: Mission Integration,” Harned offers his insight into the world of irregular warfare.
Harned says that to successfully deal with irregular warfare, U.S. government agencies need the following:
As prime examples of irregular warfare, Harned cites the bombings in Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and East Africa. He also cites the September 11 attacks as a wakeup call for the U.S. Government to understand irregular warfare.
Harned states that the solution requires a whole-of-government approach to the problem, with the military taking a supporting role. Social, economic, political, and informational components also need to be working together to address the problem.