EMPOWERING LEADERS THROUGH INTENT – BASED LEADERSHIP: A TRANSFORMATIVE APPROACH IN MILITARY EDUCATION

This article examines the application and potential impact of intent-based leadership (IBL) in military education, focusing on its ability to enhance decision-making, autonomy, and responsibility among military cadets and officers. IBL, a leadership model popularized by the former U.S.. Navy Captain David Marquet shifted authority from a centralized, top-down approach to a decentralized system that empowers subordinates to make decisions aligned with the commander’s intent. This study aims to document the existing research on IBL and analyze its effectiveness in military settings, drawing insights from both case studies and leadership programs in high-stakes environments. This article reviews documented evidence from various military academies and allied organizations, focusing on the alignment between IBL principles and the desired leadership competencies of military personnel. The findings suggest that IBL can address key gaps in traditional military leadership training by enhancing critical thinking, adaptability, and accountability among trainees. However, implementing IBL in military institutions presents challenges, including resistance from entrenched hierarchical structures, and the need for extensive cultural adaptation. This study provides a foundation for understanding the potential of IBL in military education, highlighting both the opportunities for leadership development and the structural considerations necessary for effective implementation.