The Global Cultural Knowledge Network (GCKN) and the Foreign Military Studies Office (FMSO) work in tandem to provide the U.S. Army with critical insights, research, and training to better understand the global operational environment (OE). Together, these organizations combine sociocultural expertise, open-source research, and regional analysis to uncover the root causes of conflict, instability, and emerging challenges around the world.

The Global Cultural Knowledge Network (GCKN)

delivers relevant sociocultural analysis, methodologies, and training to contextualize the operational environment. By focusing on the human dimension of conflict, GCKN helps reveal the underlying drivers of instability, enabling the Army to navigate complex global issues more effectively.

The Foreign Military Studies Office (FMSO)

based at Fort Leavenworth, KS, has a rich history spanning over 30 years of open-source research. Originating in 1986 as the Soviet Army Studies Office (SASO), FMSO played a key role during the Cold War, providing analysis of Soviet military capabilities, culture, and politics. After the Soviet Union's dissolution in 1991, SASO transitioned to FMSO, expanding its mission to track global developments across regions like China, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

FMSO’s team of analysts—comprising military professionals, academics, linguists, and regional experts—continue to conduct open-source research on military strategy, insurgency, terrorism, cyber threats, natural resources, and border conflicts. Their work supports Army doctrine, professional military education, and national security initiatives by providing timely analysis and actionable insights.

A Unified Mission

Together, GCKN and FMSO serve as vital resources for the U.S. Army and its partners. Through sociocultural analysis, open-source research, and subject matter expertise, they deliver a holistic understanding of the operational environment. Both organizations provide training, publish widely in military and academic journals, and collaborate with institutions such as the National Training Center, Command and General Staff College, and international defense organizations. Their work informs Army doctrine, supports leadership development, and prepares future generations to address emerging global challenges.

By combining deep historical knowledge with cutting-edge research, GCKN and FMSO continue to shape the Army’s understanding of a complex and ever-changing world.