A New Strategy and Fewer Forces: The Pacific Dimension
Abstract
This two-volume report addresses how the United States should reposture its forces, adjust its policies, and change its military operations in the Asia Pacific region, all in the context of reduced resources and increased burden-sharing by allies and security partners. We employ the DoD Strategic Framework for the Asian Pacific Rim as a point of departure in analyzing the changing regional environment and the role that U.S. forces might play in it. The core of this report is an assessment of six alternative U.S regional force postures that might develop over the next 15 years. Each posture is examined in three dimensions: Regional responses to the posture, in terms of its ability to reassure security partners or deter potential opponents, and in terms of its domestic impact within regional states; Performance in hypothetical contingencies in the event deterrence fails; and Comparative cost. The study also assesses 12 policy and program initiatives that might give the United States additional leverage in the face of declining forces and a diminished regional security role. The report concludes with 14 policy and program recommendations that might improve the match between regional security requirements and available U.S. forces. We first identify the major factors likely to shape the regional environment over the next 15 years and outline the uncertainties and their implications for U.S. regional strategy and force posture.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA261025
Entities
People
- James A. Winnefeld
- John Y. Schrader
- Jonathan D. Pollack
- Kevin N. Lewis
- Lynn D. Pullen
Organizations
- RAND Corporation