Bridging the Widening Gap in Military Regional Expertise.
Abstract
The dissolution of the Soviet Union and end of the Cold War have resulted in a rapidly changing and increasingly ambiguous 'new world order' where regional instability has become a threat to U. S. security. DoD emphasis has shifted from a primary focus on conventional military threats to a focus on regional threats impacting all areas of U. S. national power, including political, economic, and environmental threats. U. S. and international peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts in support of worldwide stability are increasingly intended to forestall regional crises that could accelerate into armed conflict. To be most effective, these 'non-traditional' missions require in-depth regional knowledge on the part of military planners and commanders. U.S. military expertise in regional affairs is thus becoming increasingly important. However, Service downsizing is affecting our existing community of regional experts. If unchecked, this trend will seriously deplete a unique and longstanding pool of talent at a time when regional security matters are increasingly vital to U. S. national interests. My paper focuses on the need to retain and expand our pool of regional experts in the U.S. military. It discusses several options using present military assets and suggests creation of a Joint regional affairs specialty as the best long-range solution.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA308591
Entities
People
- Pamela A. Marshall
Organizations
- United States Army War College