Previous: 1-3: Operational Variables
1-7. Threats may include individuals, groups of individuals (organized or not organized), paramilitary or military forces, nation-states, or national alliances. When threats execute their capability to do harm to the United States, they become enemies. Preparing for and managing these threats requires employing all instruments of national power: diplomatic, informational, military, and economic. (Refer to ADRP 2-0 for more information.)
1-8. The term hybrid threat has evolved to capture the seemingly increased complexity of operations, and the multiplicity of actors involved, and the blurring between traditional elements of conflict. A hybrid threat is the diverse and dynamic combination of regular forces, irregular forces, terrorist forces, or criminal elements unified to achieve mutually beneficial effects. Hybrid threats combine regular forces governed by international law, military tradition, and customs with irregular forces that act with no restrictions on violence or targets for violence. Such varied forces and capabilities enable hybrid threats to capitalize on perceived vulnerabilities, making them particularly effective. While the existence of innovative enemies is not new, hybrid threats demand the Infantry platoon and squad prepare for a range of possible threats simultaneously (Refer to ADRP 3-0 for more information.)
1-9. Incorporating civil considerations into mission analysis requires critical thinking, collaboration, continuous learning, and adaptation. It requires analyzing ASCOPE. In support of unified land operations, Army forces at every echelon must strive to obtain support from the indigenous population and institutions. Many social factors influence perceptions; these include language, culture, geography, history, education, beliefs, perceived objectives and motivation, communications media, and personal experience.
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Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad