This monograph investigates the suitability of the Wass de Czege Combat Power Model as a framework for thought in which the military decision-making process--specifically the critical steps of wargaming--can occur at the tactical level of war. The model can assist the decision-maker in understanding how to apply combat power, and it can further function as an analytical tool, especially in time-constrained situations. The monograph first discusses the historical development of the estimate process, leading to what is currently used in the US Army today. Included in this is a discussion of when the concept of wargaming first appeared in doctrine and how the wargaming methodology evolved to its present format. A description of the military decision-making process in use today follows, with emphasis on its inadequacies in time-critical situations at the lower tactical levels of warfighting. Next is a description of the recognition-primed decision-making theory developed by Gary A. Klein and associates and how this theory accurately delineates the process by which decision-makers, especially military leaders, make and assess decisions. Following this is an explanation of the Wass de Czege combat power model and its suitability as a framework for thought in which recognition-primed decision-making can occur. To demonstrate the utility of this method of thought and analysis, the combat power model is then applied to a tactical situation involving a battalion task force. The monograph concludes that the US Army decision-making process is ideal for long-range planning and situations where time is not a critical factor. Recommended methods of wargaming described in our doctrine and instructional manuals require too much detail and are generally unable to accommodate rapid changes on the battlefield. Furthermore, they do not account for the largely intuitive nature of the process, particularly at the tactical level of warfighting. Training in the US Army, therefore, needs to focus on teaching leaders how to think, and not only what to think. Training efforts must produce an understanding of how to develop and apply overwhelming relative combat power at the right time and place. The Wass de Czege combat power model can supplement the current military decision-making process--especially wargaming--by teaching leaders how think about combat power, the decisive factor on the battlefield. The model provides structure to the leader's thought process in the form of a firmly ingrained mental framework that guides his thoughts and cues his mind.

ADA 258107 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)