Security Assistance: An Applicable Strategy for the 1990s?

Abstract

Abstract : As described in the recent Department of Defense Statement to Congress, security assistance involves the United States in pursuing its national interests and aiding other nations in preserving their own national security. This paper is an assessment of the future utility of security assistance as a major US foreign policy and security instrument, focusing on its arms transfer element. In this presentation an historical as well as contemporary perspective will be provided for evaluating the program's relevancy to continue US security objectives. Furthermore, an examination of the political-military structure will be undertaken, keeping in mind the program's coherency to its domestic and international political environments. finally, an appraisal of the program's viability for the 1990s will be given, highlighting, the sources of international instability, addressing the dichotomy of arms sales and arms control; the regional and international impact on security assistance and, an assessment of its utility in the recent Gulf Crisis.