FM 3.07: Stability Operations (Updated With FM Link)

[Jedburgh]

...so let me get this right.

There are now, "Stability Operations," - which are distinct from COIN Operations, and then there is Combat. The choice of the word "Stability" is somewhat interesting. Is this the new "OOTW?"

All these are the new buzzwords.....

None of this is new at all, and Stability Operations as a doctrinal term predates OOTW. Rather, it is an updating and fleshing out of old, existing doctrine. For a few on this board, I would hazard a guess that they're experiencing a bit of déjà vu with all this updating/republishing of old doctrine that had been virtually ignored for years.

See FM 31-23 Stability Operations, 8 Dec 67 (Updated and reissued 2 Oct 72 - with an added chapter on training requirements for advisors, along with a few other bits). Take a look at FM 31-73 Advisor Handbook for Stability Operations, 18 Oct 67.

Stability Operations: That type of internal defense and internal development operations and assistance provided by the armed forces to maintain, restore or establish a climate of order within which responsible government can function effectively and without which progress cannot be achieved.

The new FM provides the definition of Stability Operations from JP 3-0 Joint Operations, 17 Sep 06 (Change 1, 13 Feb 08)

Stability operations encompass various military missions, tasks, and activities conducted outside the United States in coordination with other instruments of national power to maintain or reestablish a safe and secure environment, provide essential governmental services, emergency infrastructure reconstruction, and humanitarian relief.