The Ballistic Missile as a Symbol of Asymmetry in East Asia
Abstract
This paper offers two assertions: (1) Economic vitality and declining Western influence in Asia are gradually transforming Asia from a colonial geographic identity into a region with a modern and uniquely "Asian" consciousness; and (2) The tremendous political and military dividends yielded by the ballistic missile are extremely seductive, have established it as asymmetric warfare's touchstone, and have made it a likely weapon of choice for Asian nations as they undertake the slow process of military modernization. As the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) seeks to redefine and identify its role as a regional leader and the next probable challenger to a unipolar world, it will be seeking relatively simple, interim solutions for challenging U.S. security interests and forward-based U.S. military forces in Asia. Also, as the disparity between the North and South Korean economies continues to broaden, North Korea will, like China, be seeking short-range solutions for intimidation and recognition. For both countries, a significant part of the answer has been the development and deployment of modern, accurate ballistic missiles. The appeal for, and zealous accumulation of these asymmetric weapons are among the most alarming and destabilizing strategic developments that Western policy makers must dissect and engage. Ballistic missile systems, their associated technologies, and their potential for delivering WMD are nullifying Western advantages in conventional weapons and transforming Asia's military geography. This paper is an examination of the nascent forces in Asia that have created today's asymmetric frenzy, and how the proliferation of ballistic missile technology in both China and North Korea will affect U.S. national strategy and military doctrine. The essential strategic issue is not whether the United State can keep Asian armies isolated from sophisticated technologies, but rather can it adapt to an Asia in which military modernization is inevitable.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA529496
Entities
People
- C. J. Davis
Organizations
- Marine Corps University