National Security Watches are designed to provide news and analysis on pertinent national security issues to the members and leaders of the Association of the United States Army and to the larger policymaking community. The content may represent the personal opinions of the author(s) and not necessarily the position of the Association or its members.
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Thinking About the 21st Century Security Environment: The Need for a Whole-of-Government Approach
by General Gordon R. Sullivan, USA Ret. (National Security Watch 12-1W, January 2012)
National Security Watch 12-1W examines how more interagency involvement in fighting the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan might have led to an earlier conclusion and with a more satisfactory outcome for all participants. Perhaps the United States would not have been so slow to learn and adapt, as has been the case in both wars. More interagency involvement might also have encouraged a civil–military discourse at the strategic level that would have produced more reasonable U.S. strategic objectives, thus avoiding the second- and third-order difficulties in execution and in communication to the American people that we have witnessed. The paper also discusses how, operationally, the inadequate interagency effort made the stability, support and counterinsurgency operations much less effective than they could have been.
★★★ 2011 ★★★
The 2011 National Military Strategy: Resetting a Strong Foundation by Nicholas R. Krueger
(National Security Watch 11-2, 2 May 2011)
National Security Watch 11-2 examines how the international security environment has changed since the previous National Military Strategy was produced in 2004 and how these changes have shaped the 2011 National Military Strategy. The NMS serves two main purposes: to assess the global security situation and some emerging forces likely to mold it in the future, and to identify a set of discrete national military objectives that define the main missions to be undertaken by the armed forces. The 2011 NMS discusses challenges presented by ten years of continuous combat operations, the longest span in our country’s history. During this time, America’s adversaries have been innovative: state actors have been arming, nonstate actors have been subverting and the nexus of state and nonstate actors has become even more threatening. The new NMS incorporates these recent developments and aims to supply the armed forces with strategic direction for the future.
The Enduring Need for an Effective U.S. Landpower Presence in Europe
(National Security Watch 11-1, 14 February 2011)
National Security Watch 11-1 examines U.S. landpower in Europe and its importance to preserving strategic flexibility and regional stability while preserving the legitimacy and efficacy of multinational coalition operations around the globe. U.S. global power in the modern era rests on a set of enduring strategic principles that remain constant in a shifting political landscape. Collective defense, ally reassurance, crisis response, partner building and freedom of action are fundamental pillars to U.S. strategic stability. U.S. landpower in Europe has been the embodiment of those principles for the last half century, clearly demonstrating the nation’s commitment and strategic intent to international peace and stability. Recent discussions about budgets, burden-sharing and force retrenchments have cast an ominous shadow over U.S. landpower in Europe, despite its significant current and future value in support of U.S. strategic interests around the globe.
★★★ 2010 ★★★
Consequence Management: Steps in the Right Direction? by Christine Le Jeune
(National Security Watch 10-2, 8 September 2010)
National Security Watch 10-2 takes a look at the need to build capacity to respond to major national incidents—natural disasters, terrorism, large-scale cyber attacks, pandemics and other potential threats—and the collaborative efforts of federal, state and local governments, communities and public/private partnerships that are necessary to achieve that goal.
The (New?) National Security Strategy by Douglas Schaffer
(National Security Watch 10-1, 20 July 2010)
National Security Watch 10-1 compares the 2010 National Security Strategy (NSS) of the United States with previous versions in the context of goals, ways and means. While widely considered a departure from previous iterations, a closer look at the 2010 NSS compared to those of 2002 and 2006 show it to be not that substantively different. Additionally, the 2010 NSS advances a broad agenda that poses unique challenges to the planning and budgeting process; success will be largely dependent on the ability of the United States to organize and provide itself the means to execute.
★★★ 2009 ★★★
The Evolution of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by Richard Mereand
(National Security Watch 09-4, 29 December 2009)
National Security Watch 09-4 examines the history of the United States' relationship with Japan since World War II, and how the recent election in Japan and subsequent upheaval of the once-dominant Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has affected the future of this alliance. American forces have maintained a presence in Japan since their occupation following the war, providing security to Japan because its constitution prohibits the maintenance of military forces. As time and distance dim memories of the militaristic Japan of the 1930s and 40s, opposition has risen to the presence of foreign troops on Japanese soil, as have arguments for a more independent, assertive Japanese foreign and defense policy. Overall, the close relationship between Japan and the United States is strong and beneficial to both nations, but U.S. policymakers should work with the Japanese to ensure that the relationship remains fundamentally sound as it adapts to the new Japanese outlook.
Securing Cyberspace: Guarding the New Frontier by Richard Mereand
(National Security Watch 09-3, 25 August 2009)
National Security Watch 09-3 explores the rapidly evolving challenge of securing the nation's information technology infrastructure. Cyberspace attacks are an ongoing and increasing problem, and complex issues of law, policy and coordination confront those who work to combat them. The White House's review of cybersecurity policy and the Department of Defense's creation of a new sub-unified command for cyberspace are important developments. But further strategy development and improved structures and processes for cybersecurity are still needed.
Russia: A Problematic Partner by Richard Mereand
(National Security Watch 09-2, 1 June 2009)
National Security Watch 09-2 discusses the decline and resurgence of Russia as a global actor and the impact Russia could have on global security issues such as oil supplies, arms sales and nuclear proliferation. Following a tenuous economic recovery and the modernization of their military, Russians once again crave international prestige. Russia is neither a friend nor an enemy of the United States, making trust impossible, but to avoid another Cold War America needs to seek a deeper understanding of the factors and motivations that drive Russia to have a more prominent international presence.
Emerging Global Trends and Potential Implications for National Security by David J. Kay
(National Security Watch 09-1, 29 May 2009)
National Security Watch 09-1 introduces several factors such as oil, the global food and water supply, climate change and crime, and discusses the impact that each could have on future global security. The key to dealing with these future issues is thinking about how they will affect American and global interests and developing a strategy to handle their implications. While some trends, such as global climate change, are irreversible and already manifesting, targeted action is still necessary to minimize the negative effects and plot a forward course of action. The United States needs not only to develop comprehensive approaches for dealing with the most alarming trends, but also to put in place a mechanism for monitoring or responding to future threats.
★★★ 2008 ★★★
Civilian Response Corps by Richard Mereand
(National Security Watch 08-4, 3 October 2008)
National Security Watch 08-4 describes a State Department initiative to create a body of civilian personnel dedicated to carrying out stabilization and reconstruction missions. The Civilian Response Corps (CRC) signals a belief in the value and efficacy of stabilization efforts, and a commitment to improving the U.S. ability to carry them out. The CRC will change the way stability operations are carried out and the relationship between the military and civilian components of them.
Engaging the “New China” by David Kay
(National Security Watch 08-3, 2 September 2008)
National Security Watch 08-3 discusses the substantial growth—and the underlying systemic weaknesses—in the Chinese economy and military. China has experienced radical change, and the U.S. policy community must update its long-held conceptions to conform to the realities of the "new China." China's future path is uncertain, and American policymakers must continuously monitor and reevaluate the situation. Whenever possible, the United States should engage China on important international and domestic issues, but it must clearly communicate the red lines on sensitive issues such as Taiwan and North Korea.
U.S. Army Europe and 7th Army: A Model of Strategic Flexibility by Milady Ortiz
(National Security Watch 08-2, 23 June 2008)
National Security Watch 08-2 discusses the new changes and challenges the command is undergoing during its sixth decade of service to the United States. Since its inception during World War II and vital role in Europe during the Cold War, USAREUR has continuously transformed to meet the defense needs of the U.S. military. The shift in security concerns for the U.S. government since the Cold War has resulted in a concurrent shift in mission for the command. USAREUR missions have included operations in the Balkans, Bulgaria and Romania. USAREUR has also played an essential supporting role in the war on terrorism, with operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Currently, USAREUR is currently undergoing its largest transformational effort to date.
U.S. Africa Command: A New Way of Thinking by Milady Ortiz
(National Security Watch 08-1, 13 March 2008)
National Security Watch 08-1 discusses the establishment of AFRICOM, which provides the United States an opportunity to rearrange its current military orientation on the continent, address traditional and developing issues for U.S. security in Africa, and provide security and development assistance for 53 African countries. The primary mission for AFRICOM, created in October 2007, is to promote U.S. national security objectives by working with African states and regional organizations to strengthen stability and security on the African continent. The primary purpose of AFRICOM is to serve as a supporting structure to already existing U.S. and international programs in Africa. AFRICOM hopes to provide support to Africans to build democratic institutions and establish good governance, while focusing on tasks such as peacekeeping, security, counterterrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
★★★ 2007 ★★★
The Korean Peninsula and the Future of Eighth U.S. Army by Amanda Merritt Cumti
(National Security Watch 07-2, 26 September 2007)
National Security Watch 07-2 discusses the U.S. role on the Korean Peninsula and the future of Eighth U.S. Army in Korea. For more than half a century, the United States has remained committed to helping South Korea defend itself against external aggression. North Korean nuclear weapons and missile technology make it more dangerous today than ever before.
U.S. Army North/5th Army: Building Relationships to Defend the Homeland and Meet Emerging Regional Challenges by Amanda Merritt Cumti
(National Security Watch 07-1, 15 February 2007)
National Security Watch 07-1 discusses U.S. Army North/5th Army (USARNORTH) and its area or operations, including the continental United States, Alaska, Canada and Mexico. The United States must protect and defend its citizens against disasters—whether manmade or natural—on its soil. In a globalized world, nations have been forced to redefine their concept of security, looking beyond traditional military threats to the growing threats posed by unstable political, economic and social environments. USARNORTH is charged with Army homeland defense and civil support operations and army-to-army theater security cooperation with Canada and Mexico in order to “protect the American people and their way of life.
★★★ 2006 ★★★
The Army in U.S. Strategic Command: Thinking Globally, Acting Jointly by Charles Hornbostel
(National Security Watch 06-6, 1 December 2006)
National Security Watch 06-6 briefly analyzes STRATCOM's organization, capabilities and goals as a critical component to U.S. defense. STRATCOM is the chief unified command for both space operations and strategic threat management for the entire military. It encompasses Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC) and Army Forces Strategic Command (ARSTRAT), making the Army a full, joint partner in space operations and providing capabilities not found in other services.
U.S. Army South and the Transition to 6th Army: Rising to Face New Challenges in Central and South America and the Caribbean by Chales Hornbostel
(National Security Watch 06-5, 1 December 2006)
National Security Watch 06-5 describes 6th's Army's role in the Army's reorganization from threat- to capabilities-based command structures. Given the history of U.S. involvement in the region, the United States should devote some attention and resources to strained relationships in Latin America, particularly to the issues of counternarcotics, immigration and respect for democratically elected regimes. 6th Army will play a vital role in achieving U.S. policy objectives in Central and South America and the Caribbean, including economic stability and cooperation on multinational security and humanitarian operations
"Natural Allies" in an Uncertain World: The United States and India by Amanda Merritt
(National Security Watch 06-4, 1 September 2006)
National Security Watch 06-4 examines the history of and the issues facing the often tenuous U.S.-Indian relationship: terrorism, Pakistan and Kashmir, nuclear proliferation, trade, energy security and the rise of China. India is a strong, democratic country in the critical and often dangerous neighborhood of South Asia, but despite sharing the same democratic values as the United States, relations have been strained for almost 60 years. However, because of the overlap in U.S. and Indian interests, strong bilateral relations in recent years have provided the United States the possibility of a partner in addressing global challenges.
The Cruise Missile Threat: Prospects for Homeland Defense
(National Security Watch 06-3, 1 June 2006)
National Security Watch 06-3 analyzes the cruise missile threat and the Defense Department's plans to protect the United States from these dangerous weapons. With the advent of more easily attainable missile guidance and weapons technology, a wide variety of potential adversaries can now buy or build a cruise missile. The threat of an attack is ever more plausible and the necessity for a coherent defense is increasingly urgent. However, cruise missile defense must be more than a DoD function; it must be an integrated combination of active defense and offensive efforts, and senior leaders must move expeditiously to provide all necessary resources, especially funding, as quickly as possible.
Future Logistics Themes: Discovering Innovative Solutions to Army Logistics Processes for Moving and Sustaining Combat Power
(National Security Watch 06-2, 1 May 2006)
National Security Watch 06-2 briefly examines the future of Army logistics. Shaping a long-term vision for Army logistics requires identifying and preparing to leverage critical research advancements that will profoundly affect Army logistics in future joint operational environments. Knowledge of anticipated developments in scientific, engineering and technology disciplines will generate innovative solutions to logistical challenges. Insights gained and products developed from advances in the application of knowledge, energy and materials science will provide significant benefits to Army and joint logistics in the decades to come.
Military Compensation: Balancing Fairness and Sustainability by Cathleen McCracken
( National Security Watch 06-1, 7 February 2006)
National Security Watch 06-1 briefly examines the issues being discussed by the Defense Advisory Committee on Military Compensation (DACMC), a panel of civilian experts in the field of pay, chartered by Secretary Rumsfeld. The panel will make recommendations to the drafters of the Tenth Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation (QRMC), mandated every four years by title 37, United States Code. The QRMC is a complete review of military compensation, with particular emphasis on retirement benefits, health care, special and incentive pays, quality of life and reserve component compensation.
★★★ 2004 ★★★
A New Look at Requirements: The Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System by Courtney Wirwahn
(National Security Watch 04-1, 20 October 2004)
National Security Watch 04-1 takes a look at JCIDS, which replaces the Requirements Generation System as a new tool to jointly identify needed future concepts for the armed services and provide integrated and interoperable capabilities that work across the services.
★★★ 2003 ★★★
Homeland Security and Homeland Defense: Protection from the Inside Out by Courtney Wirwahn
(National Security Watch 03-3, 31 October 2003)
National Security Watch 03-3 examines the roles of U.S. Northern Command, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security and local first responders in securing and defending our nation -- and the need to transform current processes and responsibilities to facilitate effective, efficient Army involvement in the homeland defense mission.
The 2002 Unified Command Plan: Changes and Implications by Peter Gillette
(National Security Watch 03-2, 21 February 2003)
The 2002 UCP shifted emphasis from regional theaters to strategic global functions. The Army’s place in the plan appears to be shifting as well.
Department of Homeland Security: Pros, Cons and Opportunities by Peter Gillette
(National Security Watch 03-1, 31 January 2003)
National Security Watch 03-1 discusses the new Department of Homeland Security’s organization, its missions and the Army’s role in homeland security.
★★★ 2002 ★★★
The United States and the Island Nations of Southeast Asia: Potential Pitfalls of a One-Note Policy by Steven Mullen
(National Security Watch 02-1, 1 April 2002)
National Security Watch 02-1 examines how counterterrorism efforts could overshadow other U.S. interests in the island nations of Southeast Asia.
★★★ 2001 ★★★
Legacy Force Recapitalization: An Urgently Needed Program for Today's Army by Douglas R. Bush
(National Security Watch 01-3, 20 November 2001)
National Security Watch 01-3 explores the importance of the Army's program to refurbish, rebuild and selectively upgrade Legacy Force equipment.
The Commission on National Security/21st Century: A Hart-Rudman Commission Primer by Charles Lathrop and Mackenzie M. Eaglen
(National Security Watch 01-2, 6 April 2001)
National Security Watch 01-2 reviews the Commission's three reports which provide recommendations for a security strategy and implementation plan.
A New Look at Readiness: Solving the Army's Quandary by Mackenzie M. Eaglen
(National Security Watch 01-1, 30 March 2001)
A brief examination of readiness and how it is measured.
★★★ 2000 ★★★
Son of QDR: Prospects for the Army by John Kreul
(National Security Watch 00-5, 15 July 2000)
The Army's Unsung Heroes: Full-Time Support to the Army National Guard & Army Reserve by Charles Lathrop
(National Security Watch 00-4, 3 July 2000)
Backing Into the Next Balkans? by John Kreul
(National Security Watch 00-3, 15 June 2000)
Colombia: A Vital U.S. Interest? by Brian S. Priestly
(National Security Watch 00-2, 16 May 2000)
The Threat of Terrorism Against the U.S. Homeland -- What Part Should the Military Play in the Federal Response? by John Kreul
(National Security Watch 00-1, 2 May 2000)