Overwhelming Numbers: Security in Afghanistan
Michael O'Hanlon, Brookings Institute | November 14, 2008
Obama's proposed "mini-surge" in Afghanistan of some 15,00 troops will not provide enough personnel for the job. ++ Iraq, a smaller country than Afghanistan, required 700,000 soldiers and security forces; there are only 200,000 in Afghanistan. ++ Robert Gates will aid the Afghans in doubling their military size to 200,000, yet more will eventually be needed. ++ Investing American money, beyond the current $3 billion, to increase Afghan security forces to 400,000 is worth the price, as well as sending more police and military trainers.
