Operational Art for the Proliferation Security Initiative
Abstract
To attain PSI objectives, planners must resolve the operational and legal issues in inherent to the maritime interception of WMD. The factors of space, time and force create strengths and weaknesses for interception operations. Intelligence helps commanders manage these operational factors and create legal justification for WMD interdiction. Legal provisions relevant to WMD interdiction have both utility and limitations. In this paper, analysis and supporting charts contour how operational factors and customary international law and treaties create legal options for interdiction at sea. Objectives, centers of gravity, critical vulnerabilities and decisive points are identified. Recommendations are offered to enhance operations, based upon what is legally feasible. Focus on WMD source countries and drug trafficking is suggested. The advantages and challenges of using NATO architecture and combined exercises and deployments are briefly discussed. Interagency and international resources can improve intelligence sharing among PSI participants. The thesis clarifies that existing law is suitable for counter-proliferation and suggests how commanders can enhance the law's capacity to achieve PSI objectives.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 05, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA422878
Entities
People
- Burton J. Waltman
- Joel A. Doolin
Organizations
- Naval War College