Liderança em combate: a aplicação da teoria situacional pelos Navy SEALs na Batalha de Ramadi, 2006

Abstract

This study investigates the application of Hersey and Blanchard's Situational Leadership Theory during the Second Battle of Ramadi in 2006, aiming to understand how the Navy SEAL Team's leadership was pivotal to the success of the operations. The analysis highlights the challenges faced by coalition forces during the Sunni insurgency in Ramadi and explores how SEAL leaders adapted their leadership styles to the dynamic conditions of the conflict and the evolving competence of the troops. Operations such as Kentucky Jumper, exemplify the transition from directive leadership to more participative and delegative approaches as soldiers gained experience. Effective communication and cooperation with local Iraqi forces were crucial to the success of the operations. The findings indicate that the flexibility and adaptability of SEAL leaders were essential in overcoming battlefield challenges, suggesting that Situational Leadership Theory is applicable not only in military contexts but also across various organizational sectors.