User:Johnduffy23/Military communications

Relevance
Military communications involve all aspects of communications, or conveyance of information, by armed forces. They are a crucial aspect of any military operation, as it enables the troops to coordinate and carry out their tasks effectively. The communication process within the military is highly structured and follows a set of protocols to ensure secure and accurate transmission of information. Military communications have been a vital component of warfare throughout history, and its evolution has been essential to the success of military operations. From the use of primitive signals to the advanced digital networks of today, the military has always been at the forefront of technological advances in communication. Today, there are many communication theories that have become relevant in a military context to enhance communication efficiency, effectiveness, and reliability. Understanding these theories and how they apply to military communications emphasizes the importance of effective communication in military operations.

Tactical & Strategic Communication
According to Jane's Military Communications, military communication can be divided into two main categories: tactical and strategic. Tactical communication is the process of exchanging information between soldiers, commanders, and other units involved in a specific military operation. It is used to coordinate movement, provide situational awareness, and ensure that troops are working towards a common goal. Tactical communication is often short-range and immediate, with a focus on real-time information sharing. One of the most critical aspects of tactical communication is the ability to maintain operational security (OPSEC). OPSEC refers to the process of protecting information that could be used by the enemy to gain an advantage. In the context of tactical communication, OPSEC means being careful about what information is shared over the radio or other communication channels, as well as who has access to that information.

Strategic communication, on the other hand, is used to convey information over longer distances and timeframes. It is used to coordinate larger military operations, provide updates on the overall progress of the mission, and to ensure that commanders have a clear understanding of the big picture. Strategic communication is often used to disseminate information to multiple units and can involve complex messaging that requires careful consideration and planning. In addition to planning and coordination, strategic communication can also be used to influence the perceptions and actions of both friendly and enemy forces. This can include psychological operations (PSYOPS) aimed at demoralizing the enemy or boosting the morale of friendly forces. Strategic communication can also be used to influence public opinion and support for military operations both domestically and internationally.

Communication Theories in the Military
There are many perspectives used to examine how troops around the world effectivley communicate. The Word of Command: Communication and Cohesion in the Military by Anthony King states how Military sociologists have attempted to explain how military institutions develop and maintain high levels of social cohesion. The personal and intimate social interactions between soldiers produces bonds of comradeship over time, and this comradeship is taken as the basis of social cohesion. The decisive rituals that bind military groups together are the formal processes of training.

Communication plays a crucial role in fostering social cohesion in the military, as it allows soldiers to build relationships, establish trust, and work together towards common objectives. A communication theory that is particularly relevant to social cohesion in the military is social exchange theory. This theory claims that social cohesion is built on a foundation of reciprocal interactions between individuals. In other words, soldiers who engage in positive interactions with their peers are more likely to form strong bonds and feel a sense of belonging within the military unit. In order to apply social exchange theory to the military context, it is important for soldiers to engage in frequent and positive interactions with one another. In Social Exchange Theory: An Interdisciplinary Review, social worker Russell Cropanzano claims the theory can be achieved through a variety of communication strategies, such as open dialogue, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving. By fostering a culture of open communication and mutual respect, soldiers can build trust and establish strong relationships with their peers.

Another relevant theory is social identity theory, where individuals derive their sense of self-worth from their membership in social groups, such as military units. In order to enhance social cohesion in the military, Transition from military to civilian: Identity, social connectedness, and veteran wellbeing by Mal Flack states how it is important to promote a shared sense of identity amongst people in the armed forces. When individuals in the military feel like they are part of a cohesive group, they are more likely to work together effectively as a team. A shared sense of identity can help foster a spirit of camaraderie and a commitment to working towards common goals, and when individuals feel like they are part of something bigger than themselves It can help to boost morale among personnel.