Duffer's Shoal: A Strategic Dream of the Pacific Command Area of Responsibility
Abstract
There is much discussion throughout the U.S. national security and foreign policy communities about the complexities and challenges of the Indo- Asia-Pacific as our Nation increases its strategic focus on this important region. In fact, there is already an abundance of think-tank generated forecasts and strategic net assessments focusing on China s military modernization, its competitive territorial and power pursuits, and the strategies and technologies that will be necessary to counter its growing anti-access/ area-denial (A2/AD) capabilities. While China is the prominent player in the region, it is only one piece of a highly complex and dynamic strategic puzzle. There are a myriad of regional and global dynamics at play. These formidable forces piracy, human trafficking, terrorism, natural disasters, territorial disputes, and a growing dissatisfaction with the current world order, among others present distinct and often overlapping challenges to regional and global security and stability. Yet, they also provide unique opportunities for enhanced collaboration and understanding. The following strategic assessment seeks to go beyond a traditional comparative analysis of the military, technological, political, cultural, and economic factors governing the relationships and capabilities of the Asia Pacific environment. To truly make sense of the intrinsic complexities unique to this region, the authors endeavor to broaden our view and rely on a tool often overlooked in government studies: imagination. Moreover, they aim to offer a strategic document that is readable, instructive, and provocative. Pulling from a well-referenced piece of military teaching, this assessment borrows a learning concept first employed in 1904 by Major General Sir Ernest Dunlop Swinton in The Defence of Duffer s Drift.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA620641
Entities
People
- Bob Dixon
- Chris Parsons
- Derek O'malley
- Elizabeth Smith
- Laura Mcaleer
- Russ Bailey
Organizations
- United States Army War College