Number: RL32887
Title: Strategic Mobility Innovation: Options and Oversight Issues
Authors: Jon D. Klaus, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: With the George W. Bush Administration proposing a reduction in the U.S. military overseas basing posture and also identifying transformation as a major goal for the Department of Defense (DOD), the need to rapidly transport U.S. military forces from one location to another has appeared to increase in importance. Consequently, Congress may opt to consider what the future holds in the area of strategic mobility innovation. A central issue for the 109th Congress is the determination of which investments should be pursued today to develop strategic mobility platforms to meet tomorrow's National Security Strategy requirements. Congressional decisions concerning this issue could have significant implications for future U.S. military capabilities, DOD funding requirements, the defense industrial base, and future congressional oversight of DOD activities. This report examines strategic mobility innovation in airlift and sealift used to transport cargo and personnel between theaters of operation (inter-theater).
Pages: 41
Date: April 29, 2005