Competitive Strategies
Abstract
The concept of Competitive Strategies was ushered to the forefront of American defense policy by Secretary of Defense Weinberger in his FY 1987 Annual Report to Congress. This concept views technology as an element of national power which can be exploited through 'thoughtful and systematic ways to cause the Soviets to compete less efficiently or less effectively in areas of military application.' These strategies are a means by which enduring strengths of the United States and its allies can be aligned against enduring weaknesses of the Soviet Union and Warsaw Pact. These alignments are intended to bring managerial focus within the Department of Defense to provide technical and tactical leverage over the Soviets. Competitive Strategies are a management tool which develops innovative U.S. military capabilities in both weapons systems and operational concepts. These innovations support the formulation of U.S. national defense policy and assist the Department of Defense and Congress in making defense procurement decisions. This paper examines the concept of Competitive Strategies and analyzes its application within the Department of Defense focusing on its impact on weapons procurement, possible Soviet reaction, and the chances for institutionalization beyond the current administration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 27, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA194850
Entities
People
- Robert M. Davis
Organizations
- United States Army War College