II. Fundamentals
2.4. Integration in the HQ
CIMIC is fully integrated into the respective HQ’s operations; this includes representation in key multi-disciplinary/ cross-functional groups as part of the overall battle rhythm and through normal inter-relationships for managing/dealing with operational working. Figure “CIMIC Branch working structure” shows the broad interaction in a higher tactical (joint) staff between the J9 branch and internal working groups within the battle rhythm.
Figure 2.4 - CIMIC Branch Working Structure
Cooperation with the Staff/ HQ
Strategic communications
StratCom effects must be integrated into planning and execution of CIMIC activities at all levels because they influence the perceptions and decision-making of key audiences and leaders, thereby assisting mission accomplishment. To ensure coherence of messaging, CIMIC Staff should participate in the communication planning cycle, including the StratCom working group (only at the operational or strategic level) and the information activities coordination board, alongside more routine public affairs and StratCom coordination meetings.
Information operations
CIMIC is not in charge of these activities but assists the commander in shaping the information environment and perceptions. In addition to civil-military liaison, CIMIC Staff will establish relationships with various non-military actors and thereby establish a valuable source of information to support Info Ops planning. To secure the desired influence, planned and regular key leader engagement will be essential.
Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defence
Local civilian authorities are responsible for dealing with CBRN incidents within their jurisdiction, but they may request military assistance if their resources are inadequate. CIMIC should facilitate the coordination between its own forces and the stakeholders involved.
Electronic warfare
The broad and increasing usage of the electromagnetic environment (EME) by different types of actors affects critical infrastructure Examples of electronic warfare include the detection and jamming of drones, improvised explosive device jammers and the use of jamming systems for cellular and Wi-Fi communications. It is, therefore, critical to coordinate one's own activities with various actors, friendly or neutral, to avoid or minimise undesired effects. CIMIC can have a facilitating function.
CIMIC integration and interaction with internal branches
The list below reflects other possible staff functions related to the branches J1 – J 10, and is not exhaustive.
J/X1: Terms and conditions of service for locally employed civilians. Identification and provision of specialist staffing (e.g. linguists). Responsible for organizing functional specialists.
J/X2: Input to developing ICP: J2 may use information derived from the CIMIC process. Cooperation between J2 and J9 is crucial to enhancing Situational Awareness and achieving Situational Understanding.
J/X3: Active involvement in the conduct of current operations. Accounting for the effect of current operations on the civil environment, particularly the population. Awareness of the impact of the civil environment on own operations. Inclusion of civil factors in short-term planning.
J/X4: Usage of lines of communication and de-confliction with civil usage. HN support/ civil-military resource management.
J/X5: Integration of CIMIC into long-term plans, both before an operation and in the execution phase (e.g. branch/ sequel plans, transition planning).
J/X6: Involvement in planning external (civilian) telecommunication networks and infrastructure usage and for example, establishing first contacts with non-military net providers. Assessment of the impacts on the civil environment caused by military communication means.
J/X7: CIMIC Staff should facilitate the training interaction between military and relevant non-military actors. The commander must balance the requirements for training efforts in support of operations and assistance to non-military actors.
J/X10: CIMIC Staff must ensure Coordination on Engagement with non-military actors and coordinate effects to achieve in the cognitive dimension and integrate the informational narrative.
Staff Advisory Group
The Staff Advisory Group (SAG) contributes to a comprehensive approach, conducting civil-military interaction routinely and having direct or indirect links, relationships and need for coordination with CIMIC Staff. Close relations are essential to get a deep Situational Understanding. Members of a SAG can include but are not limited to:
-political advisor
-legal advisor
-gender advisor
-medical advisor
-provost marshal
-special operations forces advisor
-StratCom advisor
-public affairs advisor
-cultural advisor
Battle Management Systems
Battle management systems (BMS) are advanced software applications that facilitate the planning, coordinating, and executing military operations. These systems integrate various data sources, such as sensor inputs, intelligence reports, and communication networks, to provide commanders with comprehensive situational awareness and decision-making support. BMS enables real-time tracking of friendly and enemy forces, facilitates communication and information sharing among units, and assists in allocating and managing resources. They are crucial in enhancing operational efficiency, command and control, and overall mission effectiveness.
Figure 2.4.3 - BMS SITAWARE (S2/ S3 Layer)
CIMIC personnel must be familiar with the specific type of BMS used by the supported unit. This system isn't only utilized in the TOC/ JOC and facilitates the preparation and execution of briefings and working groups. To save time, CIMIC Staff should conduct their own training on the BMS before being deployed to a tactical or operational HQ. All team members must be well versed in using the system. Ensure that your products, particularly those generated from the CIMIC Estimate, are compatible with the structure of the BMS. Any PowerPoint slides that do not conform to this structure will be useless. To ensure that the correct formats are being used, please refer to the HQ's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).