Collective European Security Forces: An Idea Whose Time Has Come
Abstract
Three different but interrelated forces present today in Western Europe have not only created unprecedented opportunity nut also to a large degree dictate change in the European security system. The events in Eastern Europe have dramatically altered the threat perception on both sides of the Atlantic and have set the stage for sweeping arms control agreements. As the military threat subsides the European nations will focus on accelerating the pace of European integration with Western Europe increasingly asserting its independence of the United States. As this transatlantic relationship continues to evolve, Western Europe should be expected to assume greater responsibility for its defense. The appropriate sharing of risks, roles and responsibilities will add to other pressures behind a new security order for Western Europe. The future security order could be formed along traditional national lines, or evolve via national task/role specialization or be totally transformed through a collective forces approach. This study will examine the forces behind the inevitable change, discuss force structuring options, recommend the adoption of commonly-funded forces and then outline an area where the transformation could begin.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA240996
Entities
People
- James W. Morehouse
Organizations
- Air War College