Political Objective Denial: Enhancing Deterrence in the National Strategy.
Abstract
A systematic method of analyzing and developing measures to deny an opponent's achievement of its political objectives is proposed as a complementary step in determining a national strategy. Political objectives are defined in Clausewitzian terms as the goals of the political arm, with war only the means of reaching them. Deterrence today has two elements -- punishment, which is aimed primarily at the political element, and denial, intended for the military element. Extending denial of objectives to the political decisionmaker enhances deterrence. The process requires three steps. The first consists of determining the full range of potential political objectives. The second requires application of 16 political considerations to each of the possible objectives. The third step is the development of specific means either to insure the opponent is aware of the consequences of his action or to implement measures to make the political costs too high to warrant the use of military force. The situation in Europe is used as an example in developing and explaining the three steps. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 15, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA157014
Entities
People
- G. C. Roberts
Organizations
- United States Army War College