Stability Operations: Leveraging Procurement Strategies to Achieve Economic Success

The recent inclusion of stability operations as a core mission set (DODI 3000.05 and JP 3-07) for the U.S. military has highlighted the efforts operational commanders must consider when planning for the post-combat phase of a conflict in an underdeveloped state. The desired end-state of most stability operations includes a sustainable economy within the underdeveloped state. Operational commanders must plan to assist in setting the conditions necessary to achieve a sustainable economy. Sustainment in support of combat forces and infrastructure development tasks can be leveraged to help achieve the conditions necessary for a sustainable economy. The operational commander's lines of effort must include short-term and long-term procurement strategies, such as employment generation and contract incentives, to aid in the establishment of a sustainable economy. Joint doctrine also must incorporate these new strategies to institutionalize military contributions in achieving a sustainable economy in support of stability operations.