Less is More: Pooling and Sharing of European Military Capabilities in the Past and Present
Abstract
This thesis analyzes the policy implications of the pooling and sharing of forces and weapons as a feasible way to strengthen European military power in an era of scarcity. The thesis argues that pooling and sharing is likely to be successful only if states enhance their emphasis on collective defense by mutual aid and self-help and reduce particularist and parochial interests of local gain. Pooling and sharing could improve European military capabilities significantly and for the long term if differences in location factors are taken into account and all states concentrate on their respective strengths. Pooling of money in the form of common funding can set incentives, and is easier than the pooling of established military structures. The analysis of NATO's experiences proves that pooling and sharing is a painstaking process that has to be organized in a way that accounts for national specifics. More competition and less concentration are the key to ensuring guaranteed access to military assets. The behavior of the United States and its bilateral relationship to European states has an important influence on pooling and sharing in Europe.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA563507
Entities
People
- Thomas Overhage
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School