What are "multidomain operations" (MDO) and how do they relate to LSCO?

Multidomain operations (MDO) refer to an approach in military strategy that seeks to integrate and synchronize capabilities across multiple domains—such as land, air, sea, space, and cyber—to create a comprehensive and effective fighting force. The essence of MDO lies in its ability to leverage capabilities from these diverse domains to achieve operational objectives more effectively, especially in complex environments characterized by large-scale combat operations (LSCO).

In the context of LSCO, MDO enhances effectiveness by allowing forces to exploit the strengths and mitigate the weaknesses of different domains in concert with one another. For instance, a ground assault might be supported by air strikes that disrupt enemy lines while cyber operations might attempt to disable enemy communications, all happening simultaneously. This integration not only increases operational effectiveness but also complicates the enemy's response, creating opportunities for decisive action.

By broadening the scope of operations beyond a singular focus, MDO helps military forces to adapt to the rapidly changing nature of modern warfare, where threats can emerge from any domain. This holistic approach is vital for success in LSCO, where coordination and responsiveness across multiple operational realms are crucial for overcoming challenges posed by adversaries.