Precision Guided Munitions and The Asymmetric Threat
Abstract
The Gulf War created the unrealistic expectation that precision guided munitions (PGMs) could win America's future wars. Since then U.S. civilian leaders have used them repeatedly while pursuing U.S. interests. Joint Vision 2010 (JV 2010) is the base document guiding U.S. military forces into the next century and its key concepts of precision engagement is focused on employing PGMs. JV 2010 envisions a high technology battlefield where PGMs will decisive. JV 2010 recognizes the emerging threat of "asymmetric warfare" but fails to see that this threat is not likely to be defeated with PGMs. PGMs are effective tactical weapons but using them to achieve strategic aims against asymmetric threats is failing. It is the responsibility of the operational commander to ensure the tactical weapons are part of an operational plan, not the whole plan. Additionally, a document as influential as JV 2010 is required to refocus military planning efforts for the 21st century.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 05, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA363448
Entities
People
- Timothy B. Spratto
Organizations
- Naval War College