Book Description

Responding to emerging new threats and the changing security environment around the world, U.S. strategic leaders and planners are reconsidering the U.S. defense strategy for the Asia-Pacific region. Developing a new strategy to adapt to the conditions of a new era will be a challenge. The conflict between North and South Korea remains the principal threat to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. This Strategy Research Paper reviews the security concerns in the region that threaten the interests of the United States and its allies. The United States recognizes the critical role that bilateral agreements play in securing peace and stability in the area. These agreements have long served as the cornerstone of the regional security structure that exists, but it's clear that existing agreements need to be reviewed and updated. This paper examines these defense agreements and the need to strengthen these commitments to support the global war on terrorism and to counter future threats. As the United States shifts military assets and potentially downsizes its forces in the region, access agreements become increasingly important. This paper addresses current access agreements and the need to gain more access to key host nation facilities, ports, and airfields to support future operational requirements. Forward military presence is crucial to security and maintaining stability in the region. Finally, this paper makes recommendations for force restructuring that will enable the United States to meet commitments and protect its interests in the region.