Date of Graduation
Spring 2017
Degree
Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies
Department
Defense and Strategic Studies
Committee Chair
John P. Rose
Abstract
Since the collapse of the Soviet Union and into the 21st Century, the United States (U.S.) has continued to maintain global commitments and a global presence. In addition, the U.S. has expanded its aspirations to address a more diverse range of global security challenges than in previous periods; from conventional conflicts to climate change. In order to meet the demands of a 21st century superpower, the U.S. Department of Defense is expected to conduct a broad range of operations across a spectrum of threats. Indeed, U.S. technological superiority is a hallmark of U.S. military prowess and has been instrumental in supporting Department of Defense functions. While the U.S. is currently considered to have the most technologically advanced military in the world, the U.S. technological advantage is dwindling. In response to the unpredictable security environment and the dwindling U.S. technological edge, the U.S. Department of Defense is pursuing a new strategy to offset future threats and maintain U.S. technological superiority known as the "third offset" strategy. The third offset strategy consists of three major thrusts: to develop cutting-edge technologies, to explore new operational concepts utilizing cutting-edge technologies, and to acquire and retain the best and brightest workforce to achieve the other two goals. Although still in its inchoate stages, it is yet to be seen if the strategy will come to fruition and achieve the intended results.
Keywords
the third offset strategy, offset strategy, U.S. grand strategy, future of war, technology, the New Look
Subject Categories
Defense and Security Studies
Copyright
© Brian C. Kempf
Recommended Citation
Kempf, Brian Charles, "The Third Offset: The U.S. Strategy to Combat Future Threats" (2017). MSU Graduate Theses. 3147.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/3147
