Landpower and Crises: Army Role and Missions in Smaller-Scale Contingencies During the 1990s

摘要

The author analyzes the role of landpower in the 170 small-scale contingencies conducted during the last decade. He divides such contingencies into engagement, enhanced deterrence, hostility, and stabilization phases, and discusses the military's role in each one. The author points out recurring problems in planning, execution, and force structure for such missions. He concludes that, despite the desires of American leaders to limit the capability mismatch between military and civilian organizations, combined with the requirements of peace operations and the character of American soldiers, such problems are unavoidable. Recommendations include acceptance of some degree of nation-buidding as the Army's mission and adapting its force structure, training, and planning accordingly.