Combating WMD: Is it Really a Priority?
Abstract
The National Strategies of the United States all address the potential threat of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) to our national security. National and military strategies have been developed to focus extensively on combating weapons of mass destruction. However, reaching consensus throughout the government on what the WMD threat entails remains elusive. While various strategies/policy mandate our need to improve our ability to respond and mitigate the effects of WMD, actual implementation is not a high priority for the Department of Defense (DoD). The U.S. Army should serve DoD as the Executive Agent for implementing critical aspects of our strategy. Never has there been more relevance for the mission of the U.S. Army Chemical Corps; however, the paradigm of how the Chemical Corps is structured and utilized creates capability gaps that inhibit response to the WMD threat to the homeland and abroad. Some improvements have been initiated; however, additional focus is required. Currently an imbalance exists in the consequence management capabilities of the active and reserve components. This paper examines the Combating WMD Strategy and the current DoD capabilities to support national strategy. Capability gaps are identified and recommendations are included.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 25, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA478296
Entities
People
- Anthony R. Skinner
Organizations
- United States Army War College