An Analysis of the Impact of OCS Planning Doctrine in Operation Allies Welcome: Implications for Future Contingencies

Abstract

The Department of Defense’s (DOD) response to contingencies relies heavily on Operational Contracting Support (OCS) and its associated planning doctrine. This research study aims to validate the effectiveness of the current OCS planning doctrine by analyzing parts of the drawdown in Afghanistan and Operation Allies Welcome (OAW), a Joint Humanitarian Effort resulting from the drawdown. The study primarily focuses on whether OCS planning principles are utilized and effective in real-world contingency environments. It also explores the broader impact of adhering to or deviating from doctrine. Furthermore, the research investigates whether the existing guidance is too influenced by Middle Eastern conflict or if it provides a comprehensive framework for all contingencies. The project’s methodology involves an interview with a senior official of OAW, an analysis of lessons learned from OAW, and the author’s firsthand experience in Afghanistan and OAW. Given the contingency’s size, location, complexity, and duration, it serves as an ideal case for validating the effectiveness of the OCS planning doctrine. The author intends to extract significant insights from this contemporary and intricate mission to aid future contingency responses.