Thesis
Anaconda’s “unqualified success” was due to the force’s adaptability to the operational environment, joint forces support, and overcoming lack of unity of command.
Adaptability O.E.
· Physical Environment (terrain, weather, time)
· Enemy Capability
· Friendly Forces capabilities (lack of)
· Ironing out constrains
Joint Forces Support
· Roles of other services during the operation (Navy, Marines)
· Air Force remained vigilant to operation even though, support was not planned for
· Quick Response for CAS (emergency)
· Impact of delay approval for non-emergency request
Overcoming lack of unity of command
· CFFAC and CAOC commanding from different AO, relinquishing command in view of the hardship that was being placed but not having the eyes-on the operation.
· No single senior commander for all forces (SOF and regular army along with Afghan forces)
· Good command relationships generate great combat power