Semi-Annual Lessons Report: Defense Support to Stabilization (DSS) – October 2024
DoD’s core responsibility during stabilization is to support and reinforce the civilian efforts of the USG lead agencies consistent with available statutory authorities, primarily by providing security, maintaining basic public order, and providing for the immediate needs of the population. DoD’s role in stabilization fits within the larger whole of government context of laws, regulations and policies pertaining to the National Security Strategy (NSS), U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability (USPCPS), Stabilization Assistance Review (SAR), and National Defense Strategy (NDS).
This lesson collection offers some insight into topics and concepts DoD should recognize or consider as it plans and programs itself to partner with other federal agencies across the stabilization spectrum. They are generally framed in the construct of policy discourse, equipment and material, and personnel and organizational structure. There are also three case studies herein that assess past US and international military actions that may be reconsidered as DSS efforts. This collection is not a comprehensive review of all aspects of DSS as understood today. Instead, it continues articulation of DSS opportunities and challenges both externally and internally.