The United States has long served in the role of a world superpower. In this role, there is a level of military force that is expected from a superpower. As the U.S. has evolved over time, there is a thought that it is an inherent need to continue projecting this force, via state-of-the-art technology or by other means.
Still yet, there are others who would argue that a more diplomatic and multilateral approach is much more effective, thus creating a dichotomous relationship with need to remain secure while at the same time ensuring positive relationships with world leaders. These positive relationships lead to stronger economic ties and positive economic results for the entire U.S. and not just a small few. That being said, the MiC continues to harness an enormous amount of political power and influencing policy.
The U.S. National Security Strategy is an important policy document that shapes how the world views the U.S. as well as sends a powerful message regarding what the administration finds to be most important. In this discussion, you will be asked to dissect two strategy reports from the Obama Administration.
After reading the instructor notes, reviewing the U.S. National Strategy Reports for 2010 and 2015 please consider the following;
What are the top three driving factors for the national security strategies for each report? Is there overlap and if so, what differentiates the two?
In your assessment is there a difference? If not, why do you think this is the case? Also provide an analysis of your overall thoughts of the two strategies and what you believe is to be the most important given the importance of projecting a military force around the world.