JP 3-07 Joint Doctrine For Military Operations Other Than War

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYCOMMANDER'S OVERVIEW• Compares Military Operations Other Than War(MOOTW) with War• Explains the Relationship between MOOTW and PoliticalObjectives••Discusses MOOTW PrinciplesOutlines Types of MOOTW Operations• Describes Planning ConsiderationsMilitary operations otherthan war (MOOTW)encompass the use ofmilitary capabilities acrossthe range of militaryoperations short of war.Political objectives driveMOOTW.GeneralMilitary operations other than war (MOOTW) can beapplied to complement any combination of the otherinstruments of national power. To understand MOOTW, itis useful to understand how they differ from operations inwar. Although MOOTW and war may often seem similarin action, MOOTW focus on deterring war andpromoting peace while war encompasses large-scale,sustained combat operations to achieve national objectivesor to protect national interests. MOOTW are more sensitiveto political considerations and often the military may notbe the primary player. More restrictive rules ofengagement and a hierarchy of national objectives arefollowed. MOOTW are initiated by the National CommandAuthorities and are usually, but not always, conductedoutside of the United States.Political ObjectivesAll military personnel should understand the politicalobjective and the potential impact of inappropriateactions. Commanders should remain aware of changes notonly in the operational situation, but also of changes inpolitical objectives that may warrant a change in militaryoperations. One goal of MOOTW is to deter war throughintervention to secure US interests. Overseas presenceactivities demonstrate our commitment, lend credibility toour alliances, enhance regional stability, and provide a crisisresponse capability while promoting US influence andvii