The American Army in the Balkans: Strategic Alternatives and Implications

Since 1995, peace operations in the Balkans have been an important part of the Army's contribution to U. S. national security. When these operations began, the Army institutionally focused on conventional warfighting. Since then, it has made significant changes to become more effective at peace operations, but this evolution continues. The goals that led the United States into the Balkans have not yet been fully realized. To meet them requires both sustained involvement in the region and continued refinement of the Army's peace operations capabilities. In this report, Dr. Steven Metz examines U. S. strategy in the Balkans and the Army's role in it. He recommends continued U. S. involvement, consideration of a long-term American military presence in the region, and some significant changes in the role of the Army. From a broader perspective, Dr. Metz argues that, if U. S. political leaders decide that involvement in protracted peace operations will be an enduring part of American strategy. . .