NATO, European Security, and Beyond
Abstract
Long-discussed change in European security architecture is underway. While it may lack elegance and simplicity, this "new order" should prove useful in meeting security problems that face Europe. Its strengths are inclusiveness and a NATO core, and its potential weaknesses are dissatisfaction by lesser included nations and lack of political cohesion to deal with new threats. This JFQ Forum examines a range of security considerations that have been clarified in the wake of summit meetings over the last few months. The new architecture can be seen as five concentric circles, with NATO command structure and military capabilities at the center, surrounded in turn by a NATO-based European security and defense identity, NATO enlargement to include new members, an enhanced Partnership for Peace program, and NATO agreements with Russia and Ukraine. Most of these arrangements have been formalized through various institutional relationships between the nations of Europe and the NATO core. They reflect the realities of Europe and have been tested by the NATO experience in Bosnia. With adroit diplomacy and political cohesion, this architecture can provide agile responses and can evolve into an even more inclusive system. Despite a reduction of more than two-thirds in the number of U.S. troops based in Europe, NATO is the most capable military organization in the world. The United States is committed to the continuing deployment of about 100,000 troops. And while NATO retains some of its Cold War structure--including large armor and mechanized formations--it is adjusting to a new era with emphasis on mobility, rapid reaction, and peace enforcement.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA526029
Entities
People
- Hans Binnendijk
Organizations
- National Defense University