The European Security and Defense Identity Explained: Why the US Should Support It

Abstract

The European Security and Defense Identity (ESDI) is the European Union's (EU) effort to acquire a military instrument of power commensurate with its economic and political instruments of power. The US should support ESDI on the condition that it continues to evolve within the context of NATO. ESDI should result in stronger and more capable allies who will be better partners for the US in pursuit of shared interests and values. Any EU or NATO operation in the foreseeable future will rely on US capabilities. The US can leverage its technological strengths, as well as its mobility, aerial refueling, and reconnaissance capabilities to maintain its leadership role in Europe. By supporting ESDI, the US can shape its development in a manner that will be beneficial to both sides of the Atlantic. Failure to support ESDI risks further damaging an already strained relationship with Europe.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 2002
Accession Number
ADA407147

Entities

People

  • Frank T. Sullivan

Organizations

  • Air University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Autonomy
  • Biomedical
  • C4I
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Air Force
  • Cold War
  • Crisis Management
  • European Union
  • Germany
  • Governments
  • International Relations
  • Military Capabilities
  • Military Organizations
  • Munitions
  • Quick Reaction Force
  • Treaties
  • United States
  • United States Government
  • Warfare
  • Western Europe

Readers

  • International Relations and European Studies
  • Strategic Security Studies