The Compelling Logic Of Army Long-Range Fires In The Western Pacific (From Forbes)

The U.S. Army is developing a family of long-range precision fires that will significantly expand its role in deterring Chinese aggression. Although China has traditionally been regarded as a problem for the Air Force and Navy, the Army’s future fires are an important addition to the joint arsenal. Five precepts are guiding their development. First, there is a recognition that new technology is enabling unprecedented reach and precision for ground-based weapons.  Second, there is an understanding that the more diverse U.S. capabilities are, the more they are likely to dissuade Beijing for going to war. Third, there is the fact that mobile land-based launchers are easier to hide than air bases and warships. Fourth, there is the ability of emerging fires to accomplish missions other joint assets cannot. And finally, there is the reality that any weapon capable of deterring in the Western Pacific is likely to be at least as effective in countering Russian designs on Europe. I have written a commentary for Forbes here.