Robert D. Sagraves

The Indirect Approach: the Role of Aviation Foreign Internal Defense in Combating Terrorism in Weak and Failing States Robert D. Sagraves

The intent of this paper is to explain the significant contribution of aviation foreign internal defense in combating terrorism in weak states. This study begins by identifying the national security threat posed by weak states and their attractiveness as a sanctuary for terrorist organizations. This study then examines how states respond to internal threats such as terrorism by implementing internal defense and development programs that are designed to address the underlying causes of internal instability. Next, the role of US foreign internal defense is examined and how it is used to support the internal development efforts of friendly nations. The study then explains the importance of airpower in combating terrorists, noting, however, that airpower capabilities in most developing nations are inadequate to the task. Finally, the study shows how the aviation component of foreign internal defense can address airpower capability gaps in weak states and how this strengthens the government's indigenous capability to combat terrorists.