新的大国竞争对国防问题的影响（英）-国会研究服务部-2021.3.4-56页_620kb

Summary of "Renewed Great Power Competition: Implications for Defense—Issues for Congress"

Core Content

The document outlines the shift in U.S. defense strategy from the post-Cold War era, characterized by a focus on counterterrorism, to a renewed emphasis on great power competition with China and Russia. This strategic shift was formally recognized in the Trump Administration's National Security Strategy (NSS) and National Defense Strategy (NDS) in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has since identified countering China's military capabilities as its top priority.

Main Points and Implications

Shift in Strategic Focus

• Post-Cold War Era: The U.S. defense strategy was centered on counterterrorism and operations in the Middle East following the 9/11 attacks.
• Renewed Great Power Competition: This has led to a new emphasis on countering China and Russia, especially in terms of military capabilities, geopolitical influence, and strategic deterrence.

Key Areas of Focus

• Grand Strategy and Geopolitics: U.S. defense planning now considers the geopolitical landscape of great power competition as a foundational element.
• Organizational Changes in DOD: The U.S. Space Force and the elevation of Cyber Command to a combatant command are examples of reorganization efforts to better address competition with China and Russia.
• Nuclear Deterrence and Arms Control: There is a renewed emphasis on nuclear weapons and deterrence, particularly in response to Russia's nuclear posturing and China's military modernization.
• Global Military Deployment Reallocation: The U.S. is shifting its military deployments toward the Indo-Pacific region and reducing emphasis on the Middle East and other areas.
• Indo-Pacific Region: The U.S. and its allies are strengthening military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific, especially to counter China's growing influence. This includes increased naval presence, modernization efforts, and joint exercises.
• European Deterrence: In response to Russian aggression, particularly in Ukraine, the U.S. and NATO are enhancing military capabilities and presence in Europe, with initiatives such as the European Deterrence Initiative (EDI).
• Operational Concepts: New operational frameworks are being developed, including Multi-Domain Operations (MDO), Agile Combat Employment, Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO), and Littoral Operations in a Contested Environment (LOCE) and Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO), to better counter A2/AD strategies.

Defense Funding and Strategy

• Congress is tasked with evaluating the Biden Administration's proposed defense funding levels, strategy, and programs to address great power competition.
• Decisions by Congress could significantly impact U.S. defense capabilities, funding requirements, and overall national security posture.

Key Information

• Strategic Reorientation: The shift from counterterrorism to great power competition is a major policy change affecting U.S. defense planning.
• Military Modernization: The DOD is investing in modernizing nuclear and conventional capabilities to maintain superiority over China and Russia.
• Interoperability and Alliances: Enhancing military interoperability with allies and partners is a key component of U.S. strategy in both the Indo-Pacific and Europe.
• Geopolitical Strategy: The U.S. is prioritizing the prevention of regional hegemons in Eurasia, particularly in response to China and Russia's growing influence.
• Contingency Planning: The U.S. is developing capabilities to address extended-length large-scale conflicts and hybrid warfare tactics.

Conclusion

The renewal of great power competition has led to a comprehensive rethinking of U.S. defense priorities, organizational structure, and strategic posture. The U.S. is now focusing on maintaining military superiority, enhancing alliances, and adapting to new operational challenges posed by China and Russia. Congress plays a critical role in shaping the future of U.S. defense strategy and funding through its evaluation of the Biden Administration's proposals.