New Defense Priorities	September 13, 2002 • Volume 12, Issue 31
Should the U.S. launch pre-emptive strikes?

By Mary H. Cooper

Introduction

U.S. special-operations forces patrol in northern Afghanistan, where they used several innovations in military hardware and tactics during Operation Enduring Freedom, including the use of laser range-finders and global positioning system equipment to help pilots home in on targets. Now special-ops forces may be used to capture or kill Al Qaeda leaders. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

After the Cold War, the Pentagon began downsizing its forces and developing high-tech, mobile weapons designed to deal with “rogue” states like Iraq — less powerful than the Soviet juggernaut but still able to attack the United States and its allies. But the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks forced Pentagon planners back to the drawing board to develop new strategies and weapons. Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld wants to further transform the military to enable it to counter emerging threats from unconventional forces like the Al Qaeda Islamic terrorist organization. Meanwhile, President Bush is considering a pre-emptive strike against Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, but most U.S. allies oppose unilateral action.

Read the Full Report (Subscription Required)

ISSUE TRACKER for Related Reports

Ethics in War

Sep. 16, 2022

The War in Ukraine

Jul. 13, 2012

Privatizing the Military

Aug. 06, 2010

Drone Warfare Updated