Value to U.S. of Gulf allies increases as Pentagon resources shrink

http://www.geostrategy-direct.com/geostrategy-direct/secure/2013/03_27/3.asp

 

		Value to U.S. of Gulf allies increases as Pentagon resources shrink WASHINGTON — The United States has determined a greater need for Arab allies amid plans for a reduced military presence in the Gulf. Officials said the Defense Department and Central Command have agreed that the Gulf Cooperation Council would become more important over the next few years amid deep cuts in the U.S. budget. They said the GCC would be counted on for weapons procurement, exercises and hosting a U.S. military presence in the region. Gen. James Mattis, commander, U.S. Central Command, right, followed by Navy Adm. William McRaven, arrive on March 5 to testify before the Senate Armed Services Committee.  AP/Evan Vucci "To maintain a right-sized American security footprint in the Gulf, the U.S. promotes close teamwork with the Gulf Cooperation Council states," Centcom chief Gen. James Mattis said. "By deepening strategic ties with the Gulf and improving the capability of the GCC states through multilateral exercises, security assistance and training, regional stability is appropriately shown to be an international responsibility." In testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee on March 5, Mattis said Washington envisioned enhanced capabilities by the six GCC militaries. The general cited ballistic missile defense, maritime security, critical infrastructure protection and development of a common operating picture that "allows us to work smoothly together when necessary." Mattis said Centcom has significantly improved its relationship with the GCC. He cited the U.S.-GCC Strategic Cooperation Forum, which addressed BMD efforts as well as exercises. The leading military exercise in 2012 was designed to stop Iranian mining of the Gulf, particularly the Strait of Hormuz. Other drills included Leading Edge, a counter-proliferation exercise hosted by the United Arab Emirates in 2013. "The Gulf states have demonstrated the willingness to work with one another and with international partners to counter malign influence in the region and ensure freedom of commerce — a critical international issue in terms of the global economy," Centcom said. Centcom said the GCC would play a leading role in countering threats from neighboring Iran. Mattis said the GCC was being pressed to advance efforts toward regional integrated air and missile defense as well as coordination with Washington. "This also reduces risk to U.S. and partner deterrence and response capabilities and preserves freedom of movement," Mattis said. "Iran's bombastic threats against the Strait of Hormuz, support for violent proxies and demonstrated military capabilities make the goal of enhancing GCC-wide missile defense capabilities and strengthening collaboration with our forces all the more important."