The new/ old Secretary of Defense, Robert Gates, just published his vision for reforming the Pentagon. After one read, he's right on. Some highlights:
- We've been fighting low-intensity wars since Vietnam- why are we still training and equipping for the Cold War? It's time devote the appropriate share of leadership and resources to the wars we are fighting -- Iraq, Afghanistan, the inevitable next counterinsurgency -- rather than the wars we fear we may (ie, Russia, China).
- Fix the bureaucracy, Part 1- The Army still does peacetime promotions, rewarding loyalty, longevity, and the ability to make friends and influence people. The ability to fight, win, and build lasting stability? Less important. Ridiculous. Criminal.
- Fix the bureaucracy, Part 2- The Pentagon weapons procurement system was so busy researching, designing, and building sophisticated, cutting edge, super-secret, sci-fi weapons of the future that it couldn't be bothered with something as mundane better armored vehicles to protect against improvised road-side bombs. Ridiculous. Criminal.
This stuff matters. It may not make a difference in my time here, but it could help save the life of the guy who replaces me
4 comments:
Pito - just want to say hi and that im thinking of you. hope you are well. Alex
This is good information...please keep posting as I am still following your blog!
Hi Felipe,
Just wanted to say hello and I hope you are doing well
Felipe,
Just dropping you a note to wish you the best for the Holidays and for a Happy New Year!!! Keep up the great work,stay safe and look forward to your return to California!
Matt B.
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