Peacekeeping Operations: Is There a Need for Mechanized Forces as Part of the Peacekeeping Team?
Abstract
This monograph examines whether or not mechanized forces should be included in today's peacekeeping operations. Traditional peacekeeping operations (pre- 1988) called for a force structure requiring large numbers of light infantry augmented by thin-skinned vehicles for added mobility. With the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact in 1990 and the Soviet Union in 1991 came a new security environment marked by national, religious and/or ethnic differences. These differences, combined with the ready availability of modem weapons, have led to a peacekeeping environment that bears the characteristics of a civil war or insurgency rather than that of a contained and suppressed environment typical of the Cold War years. Therefore, mechanized forces with their increased survivability, sustainability, mobility and versatility may be a needed addition to the traditional peacekeeping force structure. The capabilities that mechanized forces bring with them would provide the peacekeeping commander with an added level of flexibility. This added flexibility may help ensure success of the peacekeeping mission while adding a level of force protection that appears to be required in today's peacekeeping operation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 18, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA309835
Entities
People
- Todd A. Buchs
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College