Defense Primer: Army Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Revised Oct. 1, 2024 |
| Report Number |
IF11409 |
| Report Type |
In Focus |
| Authors |
Andrew Feickert |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
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Summary:
As an operational concept, Multi-Domain Operations
(MDO) influence what types of weapon systems and
equipment the Army procures, what types and numbers of
soldiers are needed, the organizational structure of the
Army, and what type of training is required—all significant
congressional oversight concerns.
According to the Army’s Field Manual (FM) Operations
dated October 1, 2022,
Multi-Domain Operations are the combined arms
employment of joint and Army capabilities to create
and exploit relative advantages that achieve
objectives, defeat enemy forces, and consolidate
gains on behalf of joint force commanders.
Employing Army and joint capabilities makes use
of all available combat power from each domain to
accomplish missions at least cost.
Multi-Domain Operations are the Army’s
contribution to joint campaigns, spanning the
competition continuum. Below the threshold of
armed conflict, multi-domain operations are how
Army forces accrue advantages and demonstrate
readiness for conflict, deterring adversaries while
assuring allies and partners. During conflict, they
are how Army forces close with and destroy the
enemy, defeat enemy formations, seize critical
terrain, and control populations and resources to
deliver sustainable political outcomes.
