Closing the Capability Gap: Developing New Solutions to Counter Maritime Threats
Abstract
America is engaged in a fight against violent extremism, an asymmetric war that differs from any other war our nation has fought. The nature of the enemy has changed dramatically during the past two decades, compelling leaders to reexamine our nation's vulnerabilities in the air, land, and maritime domains. Significant strides have been made nationally to protect the air and land domains against enemy attacks; nonetheless, this article argues, efforts to secure the maritime domain--although improving--are inadequate, and we need to sharpen our focus on maritime threats, domestically and internationally. This article draws from the perspective of U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), whose mission is to anticipate and conduct homeland defense and civil support operations within the assigned area of responsibility to defend, protect, and secure the United States and its interests. The article will summarize national-level maritime doctrine, examine the current maritime threat, and introduce new capabilities being developed to counter terrorism on the maritime front--an enduring national security challenge gaining increased attention at all levels.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA519355
Entities
People
- Dane S. Egli
- Victor E. Renuart Jr.
Organizations
- Naval War College