NATO without US Ground Troops: An Assessment.
Abstract
Three roles that are played by US ground troops in NATO are examined and discussed; contribution to the conventional balance, the evidence of commitment to Western European defense, and the unifying and stabilizing factor. The implications for NATO that emerge from a US ground troop withdrawal are examined in the framework of those roles as well as some alternatives to the contribution of US ground troops to those roles. The potential for return of France to the integrated command structure, possible participation by Spain, increased influence of the Federal Republic of Germany, the question of NATO leadership, and possible revision to NATO strategy are all addressed. The study is based on a search of unclassified literature. The conclusion is offered that NATO without US ground troops would emerge with weakened leadership, altered strategy, and reduced confidence in its ability to deal with Eastern initiatives. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 07, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA030431
Entities
People
- Larry D. Krull
Organizations
- United States Army War College