Task force ready: SETAF-AF strategizes for emergent crisis scenarios

VICENZA, Italy - Planners with U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) locked in for a high-stakes week of strategic planning, focused on the successful launch of a joint task force (JTF) at a moment's notice. When the Department of Defense calls, SETAF-AF stands prepared to execute with multiple courses of action already validated.

SETAF-AF headquarters conducted contingency planning, grinding through a simulated crisis scenario with a partner nation, Aug. 18-22.

The specifics? Classified. The message? Crystal clear. This was not just about planning. It was a dress rehearsal for real-world crises, proving that when the unexpected hits, SETAF-AF will be ready.

"The value of the joint planning process isn't just in the plan itself, but in the increased readiness it fosters," said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jeremy Dugena, an engineer officer within the strategy and plans directorate (G5), SETAF-AF. "Each iteration, each 'rep and set,' sharpens the HQ's ability to rapidly generate adaptable and effective plans, ensuring SETAF-AF can seamlessly support joint task force missions wherever they may arise."

Throughout the exercise, planners tackled the full spectrum of operational demands essential to JTF deployment. From joint fires and intelligence integration to logistics under pressure and contested force projection, every element was stress-tested. These scenarios ensure SETAF-AF formations remain lethal and capable, ready for combat operations, humanitarian response and noncombatant evacuations alike.

The entire staff was engaged. Legal advisors reviewed statutory and international authorities for mission execution. Public affairs and civil affairs teams collaborated to synchronize messaging across U.S. and partner entities, ensuring unified communication in crisis.

SETAF-AF's broad mission portfolio and global reach make it a uniquely strategic asset. Its ability to rapidly form and lead a JTF relies not only on equipment or personnel, but on deliberate, repeatable planning.

"Innovation is key. Every time we conduct a planning exercise, we incorporate something new," said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Kevin Ong, a psychological operations officer, SETAF-AF. "For the first time ever, we are able to leverage Maven Smart Systems to enable near-real time data sharing from all sections of the command to conduct dynamic planning."

The integration of Maven enables SETAF-AF to rapidly analyze battlefield imagery and logistics data, providing a dynamic common operating picture that enhances efficiency and precision in contingency planning.

"SETAF-AF's readiness rests on two pillars: advanced technology and decisive action," Dugena said. "This combination ensures we can respond rapidly, and in concert with our partners, to any crisis, anywhere."

Two planning teams worked in parallel throughout the week, each developing distinct courses of action. This dual-track approach allowed participants to compare strategies, anticipate friction points and refine operational concepts through consensus.

"Beyond the plan we developed, the staff built proficiency as a planning team," said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Steven Chase, a plans officer assigned to SETAF-AF, responsible for facilitating the joint planning event. "Planners drew on this event to identify opportunities and risk for our command, improving our ability to respond to a range of contingencies in support of the joint force."

The August event was a critical step in validating SETAF-AF's ability to plan for the deployment of a cohesive, lethal and mission-ready task force. In early September, JTF members put plans into action, deploying a mobile early entry command post to validate communication capabilities.

Next up for the command is an emergency deployment readiness exercise, a no-notice drill to test SETAF-AF's ability to mobilize with speed and precision.

Armed with sharpened planning tools and a blueprint for swift execution, SETAF-AF continues to demonstrate the core elements of JTF readiness.

About SETAF-AF

SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

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