New Directive Recognizes Importance of Conventional Forces in Gray Zone Operations

The US Department of Defense has issued a new directive broadening the role of conventional forces in irregular warfare. The instruction updates the definition of irregular warfare to include conventional forces and emphasizes the importance of leveraging conventional might and capabilities across government agencies. The goal is to create a more comprehensive approach to competition and conflict, one that incorporates a broader range of capabilities and tactics. The directive may signal a shift in the US military’s approach to irregular warfare, but its effectiveness will depend on the ability of conventional forces to adapt and integrate irregular warfare into their operations. This development was first reported by Breaking Defense.