18-05 - Strategic Landpower in Europe Special Study

U.S. ground forces are transitioning away from a period of sustained large-scale counterinsurgencies and preparing for future conflicts. The evolution of ground operations foretell a synthesis of counterinsurgency versus traditional warfare, unconventional versus conventional, and irregular versus regular for future military engagements in Europe. Through a review of the geopolitical environment and strategic and operational theater missions, this study examines not only the role of the ASCC in theater, but also lessons and best practices that can be leveraged for future missions. The primary objective of this special study is to inform Army and joint leaders, and their staffs about the current state and future evolution of U.S. landpower in Europe. The intent is to provide a holistic overview of current landpower in Europe. Staffs, Soldiers, and leaders of USAREUR; its enablers; and the units stationed, deployed, and rotating through Europe can use this study to develop an understanding of the operational environment not available elsewhere. Army Service component commands (ASCCs) and units in other areas of responsibility may find this study a useful model for "seeing themselves." The primary target audience is the theater ground component commander and ASCC staffs. The secondary audience includes Department of Army staff, joint staff, and unified action partners.