The Decisive Phase of Colombia's War on Narco-Terrorism
Abstract
Plan Colombia was drafted as a 6-year strategy to overhaul almost every aspect of Colombian society. The plan was developed with considerable U.S. assistance and in essence focused on five critical areas: (1) curbing narco-trafficking, (2) reforming the justice system, (3) fostering democratization and social development, (4) stimulating economic growth, and (5) advancing the peace process. In fairness to the plan, it was never funded to capacity, making the time line flawed. Nonetheless, the intertwined nature of counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism means the focus of the plan and its strategic objectives remain relevant. Narco-trafficking is being curbed through efforts such as aerial eradication and the employment of the Counter Narcotics Brigade. Meanwhile, military operations, the largest being Plan Patriota, are breaking the link between the terrorist groups and the narcotics industry. Within the context of Plan Colombia, President Uribe is shaping the strategic-operational environment to force demobilization and to forge an advantageous peace with all illegal armed groups. Key to his success has been Expanded Authorities and U.S. training and equipment, which have provided the edge. No combination of leftist fronts or AUC paramilitary groups can directly take on the mobile brigades and other elite formations of the Colombian military. Also, the revised Colombia Cap means U.S. personnel will be able to support full-scale operations across the depth of the country. Therefore, Colombia may soon be ready to transition into Plan Colombia, Phase 3. In short, Colombia does not need a new strategic plan but it will need a new operational plan to follow up the success of Plan Patriota and to execute Phase 3 of Plan Colombia. Consequently, future U.S. funding and personnel must be prepared to support a new execution plan to Phase 3, in what may be the final offensive of a 40-year war.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA476813
Entities
People
- Dario E. Teicher
Organizations
- Air University