capitalizes on "reach-back" for data and "reach-out" for the expertise to perform different functions. Remote staff elements will have to be carefully selected and receive specific guidance from commanders to ensure that they focus on data and analysis not readily available to the forward staff. Combat support (e.g., artillery) and combat service support (e.g., maintenance, supply, and transportation operations) staff elements may benefit substantially from remote staffing because of their need for diverse data and expertise.

By 2010, well trained remote staffs that have access to expertise for special events and unique situations, or that can simply augment the capabilities of forward-based commanders, will become more common. Indeed, they may become the norm because they would limit the vulnerabilities (and attendant casualties) of forward-deployed U.S. forces.

The remote staff concept for augmentation in a crisis or actual conflict is particularly well suited to the situation of reserve components. Among other things, reserve components may be more likely to retain personnel with a broad range of specialized skills who may be difficult to retain now because of competing job opportunities in the civilian marketplace.