The Challenge of Persistent Presence in the Pacific: An Interview with Lt. General Robling

09/29/2012
2012-09-29 In an interview with Second Line of Defense, the highest ranking Marine in the Pacific discussed the challenges facing the United States as it reset policies in the Pacific. In the interview,Lt. General Terry “Guts” Robling, Commander, USMC Forces Pacific, focused on the key contribution of the USN-USMC team…

Geography, Presence and a 21st Century Pacific Strategy

09/29/2012
2012-09-29 By Robbin Laird As the United States and its allies deal with the various challenges in the Pacific, including enhanced PRC capabilities and assertiveness, geography has a significant impact. As Robert Kaplan has recently underscored, geography remains significant as an explainer for the world’s conflicts as well as bounding…

An Update on the Taliban Attack at Camp Bastion: UK Provided Perimeter Security

09/25/2012
Camp Bastion perimeter security was being provided by the UK the evening of the attack.  And the Taliban attack itself is detailed in a BBC story which is well worth reading. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-19704620 According to this story: Bastion is one of the biggest camps in Afghanistan - its perimeter is 37km…

China and Conflict in the Pacific

09/25/2012
2012-09-25 Richard Weitz has brought the following interview to the attention of the Second Line of Defense team. In this interview, a Chinese expert underscores the potential impact of the first Chinese aircraft carrier on PRC operations in the Pacific. Naval expert Li Jie said that China's first aircraft carrier,…

Airpower as a Lynchpin for a 21st Century Pacific Strategy

09/23/2012
2012-09-23 by Lt. General (Retired) Deptula Change is constant in the Air Force, and that change needs to be embraced, because out of change comes adaptability to meet the challenges of the times.  A strategic reality that affects the US military in the Pacific, is something that you all have…