Joint strategy and strategic sealift for the next century

Abstract : The President's National Security Strategy calls for the U.S. military to "shape-respond-prepare" for a strategic environment that continues to advance U.S. interests. It also prescribes the necessity to move toward a more joint way of life. With increased emphasis on jointness, the Navy has made significant strides in becoming a partner with the other services. Not only are the serves more joint, but so are the organizations participating in contractual agreements. One area where DoD and industry have increased their joint relationship is in the area of strategic sealift. As the world's shipping industries have grown the U.S. industry has reduced by one third. This has presented DoD with a major dilemma. The current NSS calls for strategic sealift to support two simultaneous Major Regional Conflicts. The MSA of 1996 was passed by Congress to ensure supportability of U.S. forces overseas. The VISA is an agreement to make intermodal shipping services and capacity available to DoD as required to support the emergency deployment and sustainment of U.S. military forces. It is accomplished by cooperation between DoD, DoT, and Industry. This research presents analysis of current policies and sealift capabilities in support of the two MRC scenario.