Abstract
NATO’s frontline states cannot prevent a Russian invasion using current operational concepts and equipment. Further, there is increasing uncertainty about America’s commitment to defending these states as well as the willingness of European peoples to fight. Fortunately, by applying new operational concepts that combine different training for reservists with emerging small, smart, and inexpensive weapons systems, frontline states can create a porcupine defense to defer and, if necessary, defeat a Russian invasion. Other NATO nations can reinforce the frontline states by purchasing relatively inexpensive, long-range cruise missiles that can provide immediate support to the frontline forces. However, to implement this concept, nations will have to rethink how they train, equip, and employ their military forces.
Highlights
NATO’s frontline states cannot prevent a Russian invasion using current operational concepts and equipment
The article is structured in four main sections: an exploration of the alternative agenda made possible by the fourth industrial revolution; a discussion of the strategic implications, including for the associated concept of deterrence; and a conclusion with takeaways for NATO defense planners
The fundamental problem for European defense planners is that their populations will not fund the massive buildup of conventional weapons needed to deter Russia
Summary
A recent RAND report, ‘Reinforcing deterrence on NATO’s eastern flank’, concluded that to prevent the Baltic States from being quickly overrun would require “a force of about seven brigades, including three heavy armored brigades – adequately supported by airpower, land-based fires, and other enablers on the ground and ready to fight at the onset of hostilities” (Shlapak & Johnson 2016: 1–2) Even this would not be sufficient for a sustained defense or to restore members’ territorial integrity. Including this introduction, the article is structured in four main sections: an exploration of the alternative agenda made possible by the fourth industrial revolution; a discussion of the strategic implications, including for the associated concept of deterrence (a porcupine); and a conclusion with takeaways for NATO defense planners
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
