A critical analysis of the coordination, command and control of contractors in Iraq

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to examine the issues concerning the command and control of civilian contractors in a combat environment. Outsourcing of non-military specific job functions to civilian contractors and the increased reliance on Private Security Companies to protect those contractors has produced unexpected complications when examined in the context of an extended war-time scenario. The objectives of this project are to identify the weaknesses of current command and control doctrine as it applies to civilian contractors, identify significant issues regarding tracking and movement control of contractors and to identify issues faced by tactical commanders created by civilian contractors operating in their battlespace. The product of this project will be a potential course of action that the Department of Defense can pursue to correct deficiencies in the command and control of contractors and mitigate the risks created by contractors operating independently on the battlefield.