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Originally Posted by 9th Engineer
Current levels in Iraq are ~120,000, 48,000 of which are NG. What are we doing with the other 452,000 troops we've got?
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First, for every troop on the lines, something like 9 others do support functions. Some of those support functions are in Iraq and Afghanistan. Others are in a very long (expensive) supply line.
There are other commitments such as less than 20,000 (?) in Korea. Troops essential in Guam and Japan for a war with China. Navy forces all over the world. A long chain of bases and troops from Bulgaria to the K'stans preparing bases for the invasion of Iran. Nuclear deterrent forces. Remember, America is now the world's policeman whether you like it or not.
Not all active duty troops are fully trained or equipped. Some active duty units (and guard units) have been depleted of equipment for action in Iraq which is taking a massive toll on first line equipment and on transport aircraft.
Remember the repeated speculations for a draft? The general in charge of Guard made that point over one year ago. The Guard is suffering tremendously because we have no time and resources to train and not enough equipment to equip all units. This is why major powers that want to stay strong are reluctant to get into any war - why the smoking gun is so necessary.