Globalization: U.S. Export Control Policy and Implications for U.S. Military Dominance
Abstract
The very success of a nation's national military strategy is dependent upon superior technology, the operational capability of its armed forces, and the capacity to sustain those forces to achieve national objectives. The post-Cold War reduction in defense spending coupled with the effects of globalization has reoriented defense industry to depend on international trade to sustain profits. Globalization has permitted foreign competitors to exploit newfound access to military useful technology. From a strategic viewpoint, a significant challenge facing the Department of Defense is the leveling effect that globalization is having on the ability to maintain the U.S. military technical advantage. The results of unchecked weapons technology proliferation can lead to a serious erosion of U.S. military dominance. What should the DoD's strategy be to hedge against the military and economic effects of globalization while balancing the realities of international cooperation with the need to maintain military dominance? The paper will examine the strategic impact of globalization upon the DoD and how existing export controls and national policies should be modified to meet these challenges. It will present recommendations to balance the continuing need for safeguarding critical U.S. technology with the effects of globalization upon the proliferation of conventional weapons technology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 07, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA415479
Entities
People
- Philip A. Bennett
Organizations
- United States Army War College