By Marina Malenic
Seeking to revamp a Cold War-era force structure, this year’s Quadrennial Defense Review recommends converting another Army tank brigade to the Stryker configuration, while both the Air Force and Navy are set to receive some additional light forces.
“Our assessment of security trends points strongly to the conclusion that the future mix of missions facing U.S. forces will call for greater flexibility and agility to operate among populations, with a wide variety of partners, and in a variety of operating environments,” a draft of the QDR reads.
Accordingly, analysis recommends that the Army convert a heavy brigade combat team (BCT) to the Stryker configuration. “As resources become available, the Department intends to convert several more BCTs,” it adds.
For the maritime domain, the increasing agility needed to conduct counterinsurgency and other nontraditional missions means the need for more green and brown water capacity. Beginning in FY ’11, according to the draft, which is dated Dec. 3, the Navy will add a fourth riverine squadron to its force structure and invest in service life extension programs for its coastal patrol craft.
The review also directs the Air Force to field light attack and light mobility units specially organized for counterinsurgency, stability and counterterrorism operations.
“These units will not only conduct and support U.S.-led operations, but will also provide effective support to U.S. partners and facilitate efforts to train, advise, and equip foreign security forces with modest levels of resources,” the draft states.