STRATEGIC DEBATE, REDUX
Thomas Ricks and Vernon Loeb point to growing debate about the composition of the invasion force which echo the comments made by Ralph Peters. Gen. Barry McCaffrey, among others, believes we’re one armored division short of what’s required to prosecute this war most advantageously.
The article also buries another important issue: The inadequacy of US strategic lift assets. This problem has persisted literally since time immemorial. Because our force is comprised of such heavy/large vehicles and requires a massive support tail, it takes forever to get needed assets in place with our existing sea- and air-lift capabilities. In situations where inadequate local infrastructure exist–which is to say, every situation in which our forces are likely to be employed–the problem is exacerbated. (Hat tip: Andrew Sullivan)
