U.S.-Mexico Defense Relations: An Incompatible Interface. (Strategic Forum, Number 243, July 2009)
Abstract
The United States and Mexico share a history that was shaped in the 19th century by numerous interventions by U.S. forces into Mexican territory and U.S. expropriation of considerable Mexican land. Although largely forgotten on the northern side of the border, this history has left a scar on the collective national psyche of Mexico, most notably on the military forces. The American and Mexican militaries have evolved in distinct fashions over the past 100 years, and today have very different responsibilities, mission sets, orientations, and capabilities. In addition, a number of structural realities present on each side of the border, including a bilateral lack of trust, pose challenges for improved interaction and greater collaboration between the armed forces of each country. The combination of circumstances has created an "incompatible interface" in terms of U.S.-Mexican military interaction. The Department of Defense should undertake a comprehensive review of potential areas of commonality between U.S. forces and their Mexican counterparts to identify missions and capabilities where the United States and Mexico could collaborate more effectively and find ways in which to cooperate constructively. The U.S. national security community has begun to pay greater attention to Mexico in 2009.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA504170
Entities
People
- Craig A. Deare
Organizations
- National Defense University