The U.S. Army is currently experiencing a notable deficit in trained psychological operations (PSYOP) soldiers, essential for conducting military information support operations (MISO) against strategic competitors such as China and Russia. This finding was detailed in a report released by the Department of Defense’s Inspector General (IG) on Wednesday, emphasizing challenges in recruitment, training, and retention within the PSYOP workforce. The shortfall has led to an increased reliance on reservists to meet the continuous, full-time demands of global MISO missions, with operational groups operating at only 60% of their authorized strength.
The shortage of PSYOP soldiers is attributed to various factors, including an operational tempo that risks burnout, according to the IG report.
The IG report underscores the strategic importance of MISO as a non-traditional tool for shaping the operational environment and deterring large-scale combat operations. It highlights the crucial role of PSYOP in conveying information to influence foreign audiences favorably. Yet, the current shortfall in PSYOP personnel hampers the U.S. military’s information warfare capabilities against key adversaries, underscoring the need for immediate action to address recruitment, training, and policy challenges within the PSYOP community.
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