What is a key indicator of success in SFA operations?

The ability of the partner force to independently conduct operations is a key indicator of success in Security Force Assistance (SFA) operations because it demonstrates the effectiveness of the assistance provided by advisors. The ultimate goal of SFA is to build a partner force's capacity and capability so that they can operate autonomously and effectively without reliance on external support. When a partner force can plan, execute, and evaluate their operations independently, it shows that they have acquired the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to manage their own security needs, which is a primary objective of SFA efforts. This independence not only reflects successful training and mentorship but also enhances the overall stability of the region by allowing local forces to address their security challenges directly.

In contrast, while the ability of advisors to manage operations, joint meetings, and the number of training exercises may reflect aspects of cooperation and engagement, they do not indicate that the partner force has developed the long-term self-sufficiency needed for sustainable security operations. Therefore, independence in conducting operations is a stronger measure of success in SFA initiatives.