Managing Editor
Retired admiral outlines challenges
Protecting U.S. citizens used to seem easier.
With oceans east and west and “two very good neighbors north and south” in Canada and Mexico, it was simpler to remain safe.
“Today with air travel and terrorism, that no longer holds a lot of protection to our country,” said retired U.S. Navy Adm. Robert Natter.
In addition, Natter said the United States invested in creating the Department of Homeland Security in 2003, after 9/11, but that it faces organizational and financing challenges.
Natter spoke Wednesday evening at the University of North Florida, where the Intercultural Center for PEACE sponsored his presentation. About 200 people, including students, attended.
Natter has a long Navy career, enlisting at the age of 17. Now 65, he was commander for the U.S. Atlantic Fleet/Fleet Forces Command from 2000 to 2003. After retiring in December 2003, he launched the R.J. Natter & Associates LLC consulting firm in Ponte Vedra and Washington, D.C.
His UNF lecture was “Emerging Issues in Asia and the Impact on the United States.”
Capt. Jeffrey Maclay, commanding officer of Naval Air Station Jacksonville, attended the event.
“Admiral Natter is regarded as an experienced and highly accomplished naval officer and diplomat. It is always interesting to hear his perspectives on how current world affairs impact U.S. strategy and international relations, both for the near term and beyond,” said Maclay.
Natter first explained the current context of challenges to the United States.
Natter said the United States has 87,000 communities, 2,800 power plants, 104 nuclear reactors, 5,000 airports, thousands of miles of railroad tracks and scores of bridges and dams.
“Those are very easy targets for terrorism,” he said.
In addition, given the nation’s government and business reliance on information technology, the country faces cybersecurity vulnerability.
Nonetheless, “We are still a powerful, wealthy, healthy nation,” said Natter.
Externally, however, challenges exist around the world. Iraq is a “tough neighborhood” and it is “ultimately up to the Iraqi people to ensure stability.” The U.S. should “help where we can.”
Afghanistan is a problem. “By anyone’s estimation, it’s a mess.”
Iran will have a nuclear weapon within years.
As for the Middle East, “We could have a three-day lecture on the Middle East.”
North Korea is run by leader Kim Jong-il, who does not allow information into the country. “The only way to change is a military overthrow or his son (Kim Jung-un) is enlightened,” and neither is expected.
However, information could find its way in. “You can’t keep information out with technology,” said Natter. “Ultimately that will be that regime’s downfall, but it will be slow.”
Southeast Asia has “great potential.” Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines all are moving forward and, while there are challenges, offer potential.
Taiwan is benefiting from tourist and business trips from the Chinese.
Japan remains “our U.S. anchor in Asia.”
Then there’s China. China became an economic powerhouse quickly, said Natter. It “went from the 19th to the 21st century in two decades,” he said. It has a mushrooming demand and a population of 1 billion. China also is building its military, including missile development. The country has newer submarines and has deployed 10 ships east of Okinawa, said Natter.
While it is “no match” with the United States, “Their purpose is to prevent U.S. influence in the waters around China.
“This assertiveness has caused concern and is one the world is closely watching,” he said.
It is China’s growth and need for consumer and business trade that helps, however.
“They have as much interest in a stable world and peaceful waters,” he said.
“I think it’s in China’s self-interest to maintain stability, and it certainly is in our best interest,” he said.
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