NATO Transformation: Giving the Old Alliance New Teeth

摘要

Designed originally as a defensive alliance against a Communist threat, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) military forces have sought a unified mission since the fall of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s. The military effectiveness of the Alliance is inextricably tied to the political will of its member states. Despite recent political tensions, NATO members have agreed to embark on a course of transformation to build the military capability necessary to deal with global threats to the Alliance. By analyzing the capability objectives of NATO's transformation, this paper will show that NATO remains a significant and viable collective security alliance that can address emerging global security issues as a competent multinational force. First, the author examines how NATO's mission has evolved throughout its history. Next, he outlines how transformational changes in NATO headquarters and force structure will affect the organization's mission, area of operations, and capabilities. He then analyzes how NATO's transformation will affect the continued military relevance of the Alliance. Finally, the author addresses the ability of American Combined Forces Commanders to integrate with NATO forces.