Competitive Strategies and NATO Central Region Air Operations
Abstract
Within the past few years, there have been a number of reports referring the 'Competitive Strategies.' In one sense, Competitive Strategies is the Defense 'buzzphrase' of the late 80s. However, it is also more. Secretary Weinberger directed DoD to institutionalize the concept in 1986. Recent SECDEF Reports to the Congress indicate that institutionalization is proceeding. DoD, services, and theatre CINCs now widely participate in the process. DoD, services, and theatre CINCs now widely participate in the process. If, as appears likely, the concept will be with us, it behooves the military to understand what it is and how it works. This paper seeks to add to the literature on Competitive Strategies. To do this, it will cover three major areas. First, it reviews the concept and how the U.S. Department of Defense has institutionalized it . Second, it covers possible enhancements to NATO's offensive and defensive counter air operations. Third, it explains possible Soviet counters to these improvements. Based on my analysis of these three areas, I believe Competitive Strategies is a welcome addition to US defense planning. It employs one of the oldest principles of strategy: focusing one's own strengths on enemy vulnerabilities. However, the concept appears to have a number of limitations which can limit that impact. These include further institutionalization, Task Force methodology, and including all required participants in the process. (aw)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 15, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA215752
Entities
People
- Frank E. Metrusky
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College