Amphibious Forced-Entry: A Viable Capability for the Naval Service in the Twenty-First Century
Abstract
The break-up of the former Soviet Union left the United States as the sole super power. With only one super power remaining, many believed the world would enjoy a more peaceful international environment. In actuality, the opposite occurred. The United States increasingly finds itself involved militarily in regional conflicts to protect its vital interests. Reductions in both force structure and forward-deployed units require the United States to maintain a strong power projection and forcible entry capability. The ability of the U.S. Naval Service to successfully conduct amphibious forcible entry operations is as vital today as it was at its inception during World War II. The United States remains a maritime nation with the majority of its interests closely linked to the sea. U.S. military operations of the past fifty years swayed U.S. planners into growing dependent upon allies and coalitions for forward support and bases in order to conduct military operations. Due to this dependence on foreign assistance, the U.S. Naval Service's present ability to conduct large-scale amphibious forcible entry is questionable. Currently, the Department of the Navy (DoN) is not conducting the requisite planning, procurement, direction, staff work and coordination required for such an amphibious assault. It is critically important for the U.S. Naval Service to maintain a robust forcible entry capability as a viable military option to overwhelm the country's enemies and achieve U.S. national security objectives. Amphibious warfare requires very close, detailed cooperation in planning and execution. The most effective method to ensure that capability exists is through the regional combatant commanders. The unified commanders must develop war plans and exercises to ensure the Naval Service is ready and able to provide large-scale amphibious forcible entry when and where needed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA420300
Entities
People
- Richard L. Simcock Ii
Organizations
- Naval War College