What is meant by "mission creep" in the context of SFA?

"Mission creep" in the context of Security Force Assistance (SFA) refers to the gradual expansion of mission objectives beyond their original scope. This phenomenon often occurs when initial goals of a military or advisory mission become unclear or overly broad, leading to an expansion of responsibilities and tasks. As a result, advisors and forces may find themselves taking on additional roles that were not part of the initial agreement or mission plan, which can complicate operations and dilute focus.

The challenges associated with mission creep include resource strain, reduced effectiveness, confusion over priorities, and potential mission failure. Keeping mission objectives well-defined and adhering to them is essential for the success of any SFA effort, as it helps ensure clear goals, effective use of resources, and a cohesive strategy among participating forces.