Feasibility

Definition

In military operations, feasibility refers to the practicality or capability to carry out a specific mission, operation, or strategy successfully. It considers whether the resources, knowledge, and technology required to accomplish the objective are available and adequate. Moreover, it also evaluates the potential risks and benefits of the operation.

Key Takeaways

1. Feasibility in military operations refers to the assessment of whether the military has the capability and resources to successfully execute a proposed mission or operation. This includes evaluation of available manpower, equipment, logistics, and so on.
2. Feasibility is a crucial part of the military planning process. It is necessary to ensure that the strategies proposed are practical, sustainable, and the end results attainable. A feasible plan increases the chances of achieving mission objectives and minimizes risk to personnel.
3. The concept of feasibility is not only applied to whole operations but to individual aspects as well – such as the feasibility of a particular strategy, tactical approach, or use of specific equipment or techniques. This creates an interconnected network of feasible components, increasing overall operational success.

Importance

Feasibility in military operations is of significant importance as it determines whether the planned actions and strategies can be practically implemented on the ground or not.

This term refers to the assessment of available resources, capabilities, and conditions against the requirements and challenges of the operation.

It allows the military to understand if the operation is achievable within the given constraints, including time, logistics, personnel, equipment, cost, and environmental conditions.

Moreover, the insight provided by a feasibility analysis guides decision-making, helps in risk management, and contributes significantly to operation success as it ensures that the military does not commit to actions that it cannot carry out effectively or efficiently.

Explanation

Feasibility in military operations refers to a critical aspect of operational planning that primarily focuses on the capability to successfully accomplish a mission. The concept helps military officials determine whether the resources available–including personnel, equipment, intelligence capabilities, and logistics support–are sufficient and suitable for the specific demands of a planned operation.

This encompasses the entire range of necessary resources, from the specifics of physical tools and machinery to the personnel required with the requisite knowledge and skills. The main purpose of feasibility assessments is to ensure a fruitful mission outcome while minimizing the potential for unsuccessful endeavors and unnecessary risks.

It is not just a simple evaluation of available resources, but also involves detailed resource management, allocation, and logistical planning in alignment with the mission objectives. Identifying operational feasibility not only impacts the mission planning and execution, but also influences strategic decisions, like military readiness and procurement.

Therefore, it acts as a crucial tool for operational efficiency, mission success, and strategic planning.

Examples of Feasibility

Operation Overlord (D-Day, WWII): Before the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944, Allied planners conducted extensive feasibility studies. They had to ensure that the invasion was logistically possible, the troops could be transported across the English Channel safely, the landing crafts could handle the rough waters, and that they could maintain a supply line after establishing a beachhead. The operational feasibility was also assessed based on factors such as weather, tides, and moonlight.

Operation Enduring Freedom: After the 9/11 attacks, the U.S and its allies launched Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan to dismantle the Al-Qaeda terrorist network and remove the Taliban regime. Before the commencement, the feasibility of the operation was assessed considering factors such as the size and abilities of the forces, the operational environment, and the possibility of maintaining logistics and supply lines in the rugged, mountainous terrain of Afghanistan.

Operation Desert Storm (Gulf War): Prior to the Gulf War in 1991, the Coalition forces conducted feasibility studies to ascertain whether they could quickly and effectively neutralize Iraq’s offensive capabilities. They had to consider factors like the troops’ ability to perform in desert conditions, how to protect forces from potential chemical attacks, supply line establishment and maintenance, and the precision of new smart weapon systems in a real-world scenario. The successful eviction of Iraqi forces from Kuwait showed the operation was indeed feasible.

Feasibility in Military Operations

What is feasibility in the context of military operations?

Feasibility in military operations refers to the practicality or possibility of a proposed operation succeeding given the resources available. It takes into consideration the means, the time available, the space in which the operation is to be conducted, and the anticipated enemy action.

Why is the concept of feasibility important?

The feasibility is important as it determines whether or not a military operation can be accomplished successfully with the resources at hand. It also helps in strategic planning, and to avoid wasting resources on unachievable missions.

What considerations are there for assessing feasibility?

When assessing feasibility, several key factors should be considered, such as the size of the force available, the types of equipment available, current mine or roadside bomb threat, the terrain and weather conditions, and enemy force strength and capability.

Does feasibility always guarantee success in military operations?

No, feasibility does not always guarantee success. While it does assess the likeliness of success based on available resources and conditions, it cannot predict uncertainties such as unforeseen enemy movements, changes in weather or terrain, or unforeseen equipment malfunctions. Therefore, even if an operation is assessed as feasible, there is still a risk involved.

Related Military Operation Terms

• Eligibility: This term relates to the requirements or criteria veterans must meet to qualify for VA benefits.
• Entitlement: This term refers to the rights veterans have to specific benefits, often determined by their service history or disability status.
• Compensation: In the context of VA benefits, compensation refers to the financial support given to veterans, especially those who are disabled.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: This is a VA benefit program that helps veterans with service-related disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain suitable jobs.
• Claims Process: This term refers to the procedure through which veterans submit a request to the VA to obtain their entitled benefits.

Sources for More Information

• U.S. Army – The official website of the United States Army.
• U.S. Air Force – The official website of the United States Air Force.
• U.S. Marine Corps – The official website of the United States Marine Corps.
• U.S. Naval Institute – Independent, non-profit professional military organization, providing analysis on maritime matters.