U.S. Strategy in Southeast Asia: The Spratly Islands Dispute
Abstract
This study examines U.S. policy towards the Spratly Islands dispute as it relates to the overall U.S. strategy in Southeast Asia in the post-Cold War era. The ongoing dispute among China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Brunei over this group of virtually uninhabited islands in the South China Sea concerns U.S. regional and strategic interests. The study includes a review of the geography and history of the Spratlys and of the legal issues involved in the competing claims. It examines the interests of the U.S., the six claimant nations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the dispute and considers the potential for future military conflict in the Spratlys, such as that which occurred between China and Vietnam in 1988. The U. S. Army CGSC Strategic Analysis Methodology (SAM) provides the framework for an analysis of the dispute and the development of alternative U.S. policy options employing the diplomatic, economic, military, and informational elements of national power. Each option is evaluated on the basis of its feasibility, acceptability, and suitability in supporting U.S. interests.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 04, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA272828
Entities
People
- Mara C. Hurwitt
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College