The MDMP is a systematic process that enables commanders and their staffs to apply critical and creative thinking and doctrine to solve problems and establish the framework and conditions for commanders to make effective decisions. The SMEE seeks to enhance cooperation and operational efficiency between the partner nations.
“The objective is strengthening our partnership with the Philippine Army,” said Capt. Shaun Fitzgerald, assistant planner for Task Force Hammerhead, 25th Combat Aviation Brigade. “By creating a shared understanding of how we conduct planning, we can tie that into how the Philippine Army conducts their planning and create a combined process that allows us to effectively conduct missions together.”
Fitzgerald conducted the class introducing the Philippine Army Soldiers to the U.S. Army planning process. When the class opened up for questions, the Philippine Soldiers compared and contrasted their process with Fitzgerald. The exchange allowed for a flow of knowledge between the participants, bridging gaps and giving the U.S. Soldiers a deeper understanding of the Philippine Army’s planning methods.
“Conducting Subject Matter Expert Exchanges benefits both armies equally,” Fitzgerald said. “It creates a shared understanding and helps us streamline our bilateral planning process, so when combined missions do come, we can accomplish the planning together and get to execution as efficiently as possible.”
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