A Challenge for NATO: Improving Conventional Deterrence.
Abstract
The present thaw in US-Soviet relations with the INF agreement as a centerpiece poses a significant challenge for NATO. At a time of a reduced threat perception and a renewed debate on NATO policy, it has become increasingly more apparent that the US should take the lead in developing a sound NATO course for the future. As NATO comes to grips with a new Soviet foreign policy direction and style, it will be necessary to reassess NATO strategy and doctrine. There will be a tendency to reduce defense spending based on a reduced threat perception. This is the worst course we could follow. The sound course is the development of a strong conventional defense which assures parity with the Warsaw Pact. A stronger conventional pillar can be part of a deterrent which compensates for theater nuclear deficiencies and accounts for continued force reductions. A key step to take is the development of a combined NATO doctrine at the operational and tactical levels. Finding the means for the strategy is not an insurmountable problem if NATO countries can develop a consensus to meet spending goals. The INF agreement will help to focus increased attention on the theater and strategic deterrent and the will be argued that the US should take the lead in building a consensus for a strong conventional defense and deterrence capability which is coupled to nuclear deterrence.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 30, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA195307
Entities
People
- William R. Lynch Iii
Organizations
- United States Army War College