Reweaving the Gordian Knot: Developing a Comprehensive Strategy for the United States in Afghanistan

Abstract

Cutting the Gordian Knot has become synonymous with a daring, previously unimaginable action that slices through an intractable problem and reframes it entirely. It symbolizes not only success achieved unconventionally, but also success achieved boldly and decisively. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the United States retaliated with astounding swiftness using a stunningly light footprint heavily reliant on Special Operations forces that were well supported by airpower. The initial results exceeded all expectations and propelled the US military to a position of unquestionable global pre-eminence.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2008
Accession Number
ADA539294

Entities

People

  • Susan F. Bryant

Organizations

  • United States Air Force Academy

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • C4I
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Afghanistan Conflict
  • Air Force
  • Asia
  • Command And Control
  • Governments
  • Interagency Coordination
  • International Relations
  • Military Budgets
  • Military History
  • Military Organizations
  • National Governments
  • National Security
  • Terrorism
  • United States
  • United States Central Command
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Irregular Warfare and Special Operations Cyberspace Operations against Adversarial Threats.
  • Military History of the United States in the 20th Century.
  • Strategic Security Studies