Credible Mobilization Crucial for the Defense of the Nation

摘要

Although the concept of isolationism and reliance on the oceans as adequate defense dissolved with technology advances, increasing world interests, and a more unstable world, experience from the World Wars has failed to teach us the importance of maintaining adequate mobilization measures. DOD is concerned with declining industrial base, technological lead, and economic stature affecting our deterrent posture, much which is beyond the control of the Department of Defense to correct. The nation has known problems meeting surge operations--mobilization is much more extensive. U.S. has to import strategic minerals to maintain our high standard of living and to make military goods. The Soviet Union has or access to strategic materials for weapons--and the ability to deny our access. Although stockpiling is insurance for war when sea lines of communication are in jeopardy, we are near half of the stockpile goals. New Executive Order with DOD as manager and other managerial improvements and renewed interest help, but fiscal constraints will hurt.