European Security Defense Force: Asset or a Liability, Real Possibility or Smoke and Mirrors
Abstract
The EU officials aim to use the mission in Macedonia to prove that Europe can and must develop a military capability independent of United States influence or interference. The European Union's expectation is to conduct military missions throughout Europe, Africa and internationally, capable of sustainment FIELD OPERATIONS for at least a year. At first glance, this appears to be just what the United States would prefer -- Europe taking control of security situations in their own backyard and balancing burden-sharing among the NATO partners. However, if the EURRF initiative goes poorly, then it would be up to NATO to clean up the mess -- which may be more costly in the long run in political capital, operational cooperation, and lives on the battlefield. The advent of the EURRF is for the sake of bolstering internal EU political power and not directly or necessarily to improve security management and effectiveness. This initiative will influence the plans of NATO and the Commander, U.S. European Command (EUCOM) in unintended ways. Once the EU develops a credible military force, they will be able to relieve some of NATO's current problems of donor fatigue' and allow the U.S. to reduce its footprint in Europe.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA419827
Entities
People
- Brian J. Harrison
Organizations
- Naval War College