The Fight Before the Fight

Why It Matters

If divisions cannot efficiently uncoil and synchronize capabilities, the Army risks losing the initiative against near‑peer foes, undermining deterrence and operational success.

Key Takeaways

• Division uncoiling consumes months of intensive training
• Mission command training program bridges planning gaps
• Wargaming identifies logistical bottlenecks early
• Near‑peer threats demand integrated cyber‑electronic warfare
• Army lessons learned center codifies best practices

Pulse Analysis

Large‑scale combat operations (LSCO) represent a paradigm shift for the U.S. Army, moving from dispersed, low‑intensity missions to coordinated, high‑tempo engagements against near‑peer adversaries. The pre‑combat “uncoiling” phase forces divisions to reconfigure force structures, integrate emerging technologies, and rehearse joint maneuvers at a pace previously unseen. By embedding mission‑command principles early, commanders can delegate decision‑making authority while maintaining strategic intent, a critical factor when communication networks are contested. This preparatory work reduces friction during the kinetic phase and ensures that units can operate autonomously yet cohesively.

Wargaming and synthetic training environments have become indispensable tools for exposing hidden vulnerabilities before troops hit the battlefield. Simulations reveal logistical choke points, cyber‑electronic interference, and command‑and‑control breakdowns that traditional field exercises might miss. The Army’s Center for Army Lessons Learned captures these insights, feeding them back into doctrine and training curricula. As a result, divisions can adjust sustainment plans, refine electronic warfare postures, and align intelligence flows, creating a more resilient force capable of adapting to dynamic threat environments.

The strategic implications extend beyond tactical readiness. Successful uncoiling signals credible deterrence to potential adversaries, reinforcing the United States’ commitment to defend its interests in contested regions. Moreover, the lessons derived from LSCO preparation influence procurement decisions, guiding investments toward modular, interoperable systems that support rapid scaling. In an era where great‑power competition drives rapid technological evolution, mastering the fight before the fight ensures the Army remains a decisive, adaptable instrument of national power.