The Limitations and Necessity of Naval Power

Austin, TX, April 11, 2007 – Stratfor’s geopolitical intelligence report this week discusses what role, if any, the U.S. Navy plays in national security at this point. Recent events have directed our attention to the role and limits of naval power. During the Iranian capture of the British sailors and marines, an idea floated by many people was that the United States should impose a blockade against Iran. Although a naval blockade was never seriously considered, the discussion raised a more fundamental question: What is the use of the overriding U.S. naval power in a world in which naval battles are not fought? Does this power have any real value now? The answer is yes. The fact that there is no threat to U.S. sea lane control at the moment, however, does not mean one will not emerge.

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