JP 3-16, Multinational Operations - Defense Technical Information ...

Executive Summary
Unified Action In a multinational environment, unified action
synchronizes, coordinates, and/or integrates multinational
operations with the operations of other HN and national
government agencies, IGOs (e.g., UN), nongovernmental
organizations (NGOs), and the private sector in an attempt
to achieve unity of effort in the operational area (OA).
When working with NATO forces, it can also be referred
to as a comprehensive approach.
Multinational Force and
Multinational Force
Commander
Overview of Multinational
Command Structures
MNFC is a generic term applied to a commander who
exercises command authority over a military force
composed of elements from two or more nations. The
extent of the MNFC’s command authority is determined
by the participating nations or elements. The MNFC’s
primary duty is to unify the efforts of the MNF toward
common objectives.
The basic structures for multinational operations fall into
one of three types: integrated, lead nation (LN), or parallel
command. A good example of an integrated command
structure is found in NATO where a strategic commander
is designated from a member nation, but the strategic
command staff and the commanders and staffs of
subordinate commands are of multinational makeup. An
LN structure exists when all member nations place their
forces under the control of one nation. The LN command
structure can be distinguished by a dominant LN
command and staff arrangement with subordinate
elements retaining strict national integrity. Under a
parallel command structure, no single force commander
is designated. The coalition leadership must develop a
means for coordination among the participants to attain
unity of effort. This can be accomplished through the use
of coordination centers.
Multinational Coordination There are two key structural enhancements that should
improve the coordination of MNFs: a liaison network and
coordination centers. During multinational operations, US
forces should establish liaison early with forces of each
nation, fostering a better understanding of mission and
tactics, facilitating the ability to integrate and synchronize
operations, assisting in the transfer of vital information,
enhancing mutual trust, and developing an increased level
of teamwork. Another means of increasing MNF
coordination is the use of a multinational coordination
center. It is a proven means of integrating the participating
nations’ military forces into the multinational planning
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