Planning, Intelligence, and the Art of War: Research Methods to Support Military Operations

A practical framework for aligning intelligence analysis with operational military planning and forecasting

Planning, Intelligence, and the Art of War equips military planners and intelligence professionals with a clear methodology for synchronizing intelligence support with the demands of modern, multi-domain operations. With an emphasis on forecasting―anticipating how military force might resolve emerging crises―this comprehensive resource bridges the gap between theoretical understanding and real-world application. Michael W. Fowler guides planners in articulating their intelligence needs and offers analysts a systematic approach to meeting them, from the formulation of courses of action to the development of robust collection plans.

Through a focused exploration of operational-level research methods, Planning, Intelligence, and the Art of War equips practitioners with the analytical tools necessary to evaluate adversary capabilities, forecast behaviors, and support decision-making across. With practical examples applicable to air, maritime, space, cyber, and special operations domains, this book is structured to address the learning curve associated with transitioning to higher levels of command.

Tailored for those navigating the complexity of joint task forces and combatant commands, Planning, Intelligence, and the Art of War:

• Offers a step-by-step approach to creating intelligence forecasts at the operational level
• Organizes operational analysis around a phased model of conflict escalation for clarity and coherence
• Features a unique framework for analyzing partner nation behavior and military cooperation
• Provides specific techniques for aligning intelligence products with the needs of joint force commanders
• Addresses the critical challenge of building collection plans tied to priority intelligence requirements

Drawing from decades of operational lessons learned, Planning, Intelligence, and the Art of War: Research Methods to Support Military Operations is essential reading for military officers, analysts, and planners operating at joint or component command levels. It supports coursework in military and strategic studies, intelligence analysis, and security studies at both undergraduate and graduate levels. It is also a valuable tool for professional military education programs and wargame designers seeking to integrate realistic intelligence scenarios into operational simulations.

MICHAEL W. FOWLER is Associate Professor of Military and Strategic Studies at the United States Air Force Academy. He holds a PhD from the Naval Postgraduate School and is the lead author of Military Strategy, Joint Operations, and Airpower. His research spans military intelligence analysis, collection management, targeting, and wargame design.