Policy and Strategy Foundations for Low-Intensity Warfare
Abstract
In deciding when and how to apply force against terrorism and insurgency, the Defense establishment understandably seeks some reasonable assurance we will have the support of the American people and their elected representatives in Congress, but public support begins with public understanding. Instructive policy guidance is a crucial first step in creating a well-informed nation as a safeguard against inappropriate action or lack of action at the decision-making level. It is in our vital interests to establish a correct policy framework that clarifies for the general public and decision- making body alike the principles, objectives, and potential impact of terrorism and third world insurgency. A policy framework focusing on the internal dynamics of revolution should also serve as a foundation for the development of future defense strategies, doctrines, and force structures for this type of conflict. A US strategy for counterrevolutionary warfare should include security assistance training and advisory efforts that carefully integrate military operations into the social, economic, psychological, and political initiatives of host nations. The United States and defending regimes should consider the possibility of assembling single, integrated security defense task forces from appropriate elements of the joint services and other executive agencies, departments, and independent establishments of their respective governments. (kt)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA215904
Entities
People
- Jerome W. Klingaman
Organizations
- Air University