Theater Security Cooperation: The Military Engagement Team. Lessons and Best Practices
Abstract
The military engagement team (MET) conducts security cooperation engagements with regional military partners in the designated Army Service component command (ASCC) area of responsibility (AOR). These engagements develop relationships and enhance partner capabilities and interoperability, thereby supporting regional stability and security. The purpose is to expand the ASCCs access and influence in the AOR. The MET utilizes its extensive military and civilian skills to promote conditions for cooperation, regional security, and regional stability one engagement and one relationship at a time.The MET is guided by country plans and coordinated efforts involving the ASCC; regionally aligned forces (RAF); and country desk officers (CDOs),military assistance programs, and the Offices of Military Cooperation within the U.S. Embassy. These programs all fall under the umbrella of international military affairs (IMA). The MET succeeds when it enhances the relationships between the ASCC and regional military partners, increases partner nations interoperability and capability, and contributes to regional security and stability. There is currently one permanent MET assigned to United States Army Central Command (ARCENT) and stationed in Kuwait. The ARCENT MET is active in the Middle East and Central Asia. The MET is a nonstandard organization with a modified table of organization and equipment based on a pared-down brigade combat team headquarters with 26 personnel. The MET is explicitly a U.S. National Guard mission with no formal relationship to other National Guard-based partnership programs. However, the MET does work with some National Guard partnership programs for engagements in their respective areas. The MET is tasked by the ASCC.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1029177