Objective vs Decisive Point

1. Objective vs Decisive Point BLUF: Objective is the commander’s goal (not endstate), Decisive Point is a point in time or space that gives the commander an advantage over the enemy working towards the goal. Objective Decisive Point Joint:The clearly defined, decisive, and attainable goal toward which every operation is directed. Joint and Army- ADRP 3-0 -> see JP 5-0: A geographic place, specific key event, critical factor, or function that when acted upon allows commanders to gain a marked advantage over an adversary or contribute materially to achieving success. Army- ADRP 5-0- A physical (enemy force or terrain feature) or conceptual in the form of a goal (rule of law established). In the physical sense, an objective is a location on the ground used to orient operations, phase operations facilitate change of direction and provide for unity of effort (FM 3-90) NATO AJP-01: Decisive Point. A point from which a hostile or friendly center of gravity can be threatened. This point may exist in time, space or the information environment. Objectives provide the basis for determining tasks to subordinate units. The most important objective forms the basis for developing the decisive operation. ADRP 5-0 During operations emphasizing stability tasks, decisive points may be less tangible & more closely associated with important events , conditions, and typically are relate to the human dimension of the problem. ADRP 3-07 NATO AJP -01: What you must achieve to attain a desired endstate. • Stability Examples include— • Securing national borders. • Repairing a vital water treatment facility. • Obtaining the political support from key tribal leaders for a transitional authority. • Establishing a training academy for national security forces. • Quantifiably reducing crime. Example: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlBys93yzLY