Is the U.S. Navy Prepared to Conduct Peace Operations in Support of the National Security Strategy?

This thesis investigates the preparedness of the U.S. Navy to participate in peace operations in support of the National Security Strategy, in terms of mission doctrine, training, and organization. The thesis reviews U.S. Navy participation in three peacekeeping and foreign humanitarian assistance operational case studies that occurred during the past decade--Somalia, Haiti, and the Former Yugoslavia. The thesis concludes that the U.S. Navy is correctly organized for major theater conflict. However, the U.S. Navy has proved capable of adapting to MOOTW operations. Further, while there are some training and doctrinal shortfalls, the U.S. Navy has performed in an exemplary manner in past operations and is currently making the needed mid-course corrections that will enhance future operations.