The Superpowers and the Third World in the 1980's.
Abstract
Numerous challenges face the United States and the Soviet Union in the Third World in the 1980's. The principal military danger to the United States in the 1980's will be in the Persian Gulf area, where the Soviet Union is far better positioned than the United States. The endemic instability in the Caribbean area will also pose serious challenges to the United States. Soviet proxies and subversion, rather than invasion, are probably the most likely means the Soviet Union will use to reduce US influence, neutralize selected countries, and increase Soviet influence in key parts of the Third World. The United States has a few potential but reluctant proxies and several self-imposed restraints on the use of covert operations, while the Soviets appear to make full use of covert operations and proxies wherever they choose. The United States should develop and maintain an enduring commitment toward critical parts of the Third World. It is necessary to develop a credible rapid deployment force, supported by allied and friendly forces, to deter the Soviet Union from intervening in key Third World areas. However, the principal instruments which the United States and its allies can use to their advantage are in the realm of economics and politics, where Moscow's appeal remains limited.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 25, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA098266
Entities
People
- Daniel R. Schroeder
- Robert G. Darius
Organizations
- United States Army War College