The US Military and Future War: Ready or Not?
Abstract
The purpose of this study project is to register concern that the US has not learned the lessons of our post-World War II military history, in context of current interests, threats, and strategy, to produce forces that represent an acceptable balance between readiness to fight now and investment in longer-term defense needs. Given an imperfect world, we have accepted too much risk in our ability to meet 'come as you are' crises or wars, particularly if they become prolonged and resource intensive. The study addresses issues that adversely affect readiness at the strategic, operational, and tactical levels. A separate chapter is devoted to each level. Underlying conclusions are that reform is needed within the National Command Authority (NCA), Congress, and throughout the Department of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Service Departments. Reforms must come primarily from within, particularly within the military officer corps, in how we think about war, rather than from new laws or reorganization. Myriad proposals are made to strike a better balance between the realities of the present and the uncertainties of the future by fielding the most ready force that available resources will allow.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 19, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA182926
Entities
People
- David A. Bouton
Organizations
- United States Army War College