The East Was What the West Was Not: An Interest or a Commitment
Abstract
It has become a well-documented fact, the United States' economic Center of Gravity has shifted from Europe to the Pacific. The emergence of Japan as an economic superpower, closely followed by the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, the Peoples Republic of China and the growing importance of other ASEAN nations - Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Australia and New Zealand - should cause the United States to evaluate its strategic posture in light of the changing circumstances affecting its vital national interests. The economic lifeblood of America is intertwined with the Pacific Rim. Our military posture is critical to the continuance of this relationship and as such deserves continual review. This paper will examine the economic realities of the present to substantiate the importance of the Pacific Rim to the United States' well-being; document the U. S. Army's role in American experiences in this part of the world; review our current military command and control relationships in the Pacific, emphasizing the Army's commitments; and conclude with an analysis of the Army's current posture against the criteria of flexibility, responsiveness and adaptability. (kr)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 17, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA215798
Entities
People
- John F. Hepler
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College