ID | 122393 |
Title Proper | Coin is dead-long live transformation |
Language | ENG |
Author | Ford, Matthew ; Rose, Patrick ; Body, Howard |
Publication | 2012. |
Summary / Abstract (Note) | Donald Rumsfeld was right. Force transformation works. The techniques that led to the initial victories in Afghanistan in 2001 were precisely those that produced success in Libya in 2011.1 Small-scale deployments of special forces backed by precision strike and deep attack capabilities used to support an allied indigenous armed group proved an effective military tool for achieving specific strategic outcomes. In contrast, the results of large-scale troop deployments as part of counterinsurgency (COIN), stabilization and nation-building activities over the past 1ten0 years in Iraq and Afghanistan have been less definitive. Despite intensive investment in blood, treasure, and military effort, the precise long-term outcomes of these two campaigns remain unclear and will be open to debate for years to come. This challenging operational experience has, however, highlighted some necessary and enduring truths about the use of military force. Despite great advances in military technology and the increasing sophistication with which organized violence can be applied in a range of situations, all warfare remains characterized by uncertainty; there exists no silver bullet that can guarantee enduring political success from the barrel of a gun.2 |
`In' analytical Note | Parameters Vol. 42, No.3; Autumn 2012: p.32-43 |
Journal Source | Parameters Vol. 42, No.3; Autumn 2012: p.32-43 |
Key Words | Donald Rumsfeld ; Force Transformation ; Afghanistan ; COIN ; Iraq ; Military Technology ; United States ; Great Britain |