America Can't Cope with Two Wars

The Quadrennial Defense Review developed by the US Pentagon was unveiled yesterday, February 1. The document virtually represents the US military doctrine for the upcoming four years. The biggest news of the review is the USA’s intention to push into the background the politics of waging two wars within the scope of its efforts to counter multiple threats with China, North Korea, Iran and international terrorism among them. The new doctrine emphasizes the use of unmanned aircraft and the strengthening of special operations forces.

Foreign observers say that the Pentagon has shifted its first priority in the doctrine from the permanent readiness of the US Armed Forces to wage two large scale wars in different theaters. The Pentagon has not refused from that, though.

The Quadrennial Defense Review requires more attention to be paid to other scenarios, like humanitarian catastrophes or conflicts in which US troops fight against gunmen, rebels or drug dealers.

It is worthy of note that the US defense budget for 2011, which the Pentagon submitted to the Congress, will make up a record amount of $708 billion, which marks a $44-billion increase in comparison with the defense budget of 2010. Most of this amount is meant for funding wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The review points out the need to increase the number of unmanned aircraft used in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan for reconnaissance purposes. The number of drones in the troubled areas is to be increased to 40-50 aircraft by 2013 and to 65 –by 2015.

The development of the special operations forces is another priority in the defense construction of the United States. The Pentagon plans to purchase an additional number of AC-130 cargo planes outfitted with quick-firing guns and increase the personnel of auxiliary troops that provide intelligence data and communication services to US special troops.

Traditionally, the review pays special attention to China. It states that China develops state-of-the-art missiles, submarines, anti-aircraft missile systems and also develops opportunities for waging radio-electronic war.

According to the report, the future conflicts, which the Pentagon will have to deal with, will be caused with the struggle for natural resources and with natural disasters.

The document touches upon the issue of nuclear security of the United States. The nation is determined to preserve its nuclear arsenal as long as nuclear powers exist.

Nezavisimaya Gazeta

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Author`s name Dmitry Sudakov
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