Defeating Insurgencies with Minimal Force Ratios

Abstract

This thesis examines three successful counterinsurgencies fought with a force ratio of less than 20 counterinsurgents per 1000 inhabitants. Discussion begins with a review of force ratios and their quantitative effect on the probability of a counterinsurgency victory, followed by a historical review of counterinsurgency conflicts in Sri Lanka, El Salvador, and Colombia. Analysis of factors contributing to the counterinsurgency victory, despite historically low force ratios, was conducted in order to identify trends and effective strategies. Conclusions and recommendations discuss the implication of this research in future conflicts, with emphasis on the potential role of the United States.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 14, 2013
Accession Number
ADA589727

Entities

People

  • Christopher Blaha

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Civil War
  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Counterterrorism
  • Geography
  • Governments
  • Insurgency
  • Lessons Learned
  • Military Organizations
  • National Governments
  • National Politics
  • National Security
  • Security Personnel
  • Terrorism
  • Terrorists
  • Unified Combatant Commands
  • Urban Areas
  • Warfare

Fields of Study

  • History
  • Sociology

Readers

  • Military and Counterinsurgency Studies.
  • Political Violence and Terrorism Studies.
  • Regression Analysis.