What We Do

Transformation

Force Provider

Joint Trainer

Integration & Requirements

Experimentation

Summary

Share |

5: Defending the Atlantic
in the 1970s
Even as the United States Navy suffered from the effects of the prolonged conflict in Vietnam, the Soviet Navy grew in strength and capabilities

In addition to an improved submarine force, the Soviets developed a surface navy, including three VSTOL (Vertical/Short Take-Off Landing) aircraft carriers. Soviet ballistic missile submarines added to the urgency of U.S. anti-submarine warfare efforts.

In retrospect, the Soviet naval expansion lacked critical elements, including the economic infrastructure for sustained expansion. At the time, however, the threat cast a shadow over American ability to reinforce Europe in the event of a war. NATO planners were concerned that the Soviet Union could overrun Norway early in a war, gaining an unchallenged naval gateway to the Atlantic Ocean.

In response, the U.S. Navy developed the "forward strategy," which called for engaging the Soviet Navy within the Norwegian Sea, north of Iceland. Maneuvers in sub-Arctic waters taxed the endurance of ships and people, a constant challenge to Atlantic Command leaders.

Modernization efforts begun under President Jimmy Carter's administration continued through President Ronald Reagan's administration as the Navy developed its operational plans, manning and equipment to counter the Soviet threat.

6: Operation Urgent Fury, intervention in Grenada
When militant communists in Grenada staged a coup, installing up their own government in October of 1983, the U.S. was alarmed that another Communist bastion was evolving just miles from American shores

Believing the new communist government was not legitimate and fearing for the safety of American students on the island, President Ronald Reagan ordered military intervention to stop consolidation of the new regime.

An Atlantic Command Joint Task Force, commanded by Vice Adm. Joseph Metcalf with Army Maj. Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf as ground operations adviser, invaded Grenada on Oct. 25. Army and Marine Corps units, in conjunction with forces from other Caribbean nations, overwhelmed Cuban and Grenadian resistance forces.

Before long, the Atlantic Command task force established order and laid groundwork for democratic elections. Although the mission was a success, in the months after Urgent Fury politicians and military officers alike criticizing deficiencies evident upon analysis of the invasion.

The most glaring problem -- inadequate communication and coordination between the services -- led to demands for improvements in joint operations. In the years that followed, lessons learned from Urgent Fury and desire for seamless joint operations would become a major issue for Atlantic Command.

Next