Space-Time-Force and the Iranian Shahab-3
Abstract
The operational factors of Space-Time-Force are a Theater Combatant Commander's most critical concern. The continual struggle to properly assess and balance these factors incorporates extensive time and effort, and in the end largely determines success or failure in any theater of operations. For instance, the introduction of a single weapon system into a theater can alter regional dynamics by giving one side a marked advantage. The United States Central Command faces just such a challenge with the development of the Iranian Shahab-3 Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRPM) . With the United States maintaining forces and equipment in the Gulf Cooperation Council states, the development of the Iranian Shahab-3 will place increasing demands on USCENTCOM to provide ballistic missile defenses beyond that of protecting just U.S. forces. The USCENTCOM Commander will be required to evaluate the capabilities and limitations of the Shahab-3 to assess the level of threat it represents, as both a warfighting tool and a strategic weapon of deterrence. To counter this threat, the Commander will need to formulate and synchronize the central elements of Theater Missile Defense (Active and Passive Defense, Active Offense, and Battlefield management/C3) to overcome the missiles present and near-term capabilities, and demonstrate strong commitment to Gulf Allies in order to support U.S. interests in the region.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 03, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA414631
Entities
People
- Paul B. Anderson
Organizations
- Naval War College