US Navy's Engagement in the African Littoral Environment
Abstract
The United States has begun a strategic shift towards the Asia-Pacific region. Given the Pacific's vast space, rich resources, economic opportunities and potential for conflict this shift is appropriate. Yet there is another large area of the world, rich in resources and economic opportunities, and possessing great potential for conflict: Africa. Situated astride several vital security and economic crossroads, the continent of Africa has the capacity to impact the interests of the United States, and much of the world. Given the tenuous nature of many of the governments of Africa, the support the US Navy provides to its African partners in the littoral region is of particular importance. Through policy, the US Navy enacts its support and those policies reflect the commitments of the nation and requirements of the combatant commander. This paper will explore the US Navy's policies on the littorals and USAFRICOM, the importance of the littorals, the threats facing naval forces in Africa, the engagement policies of USAFRICOM and the economic-security rationale for focusing on Africa. The littorals are a vital area of the world for many reasons. US Navy policy reflects this value, but the implementation of the policies are less than ideal.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 14, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA589673
Entities
People
- Adam V. Bellin
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College