Quote Originally Posted by MikeF View Post
I like the way that you're thinking. What a concept- let the host nation take responsibility for their own country. BTW, it's also much cheaper in both US blood and treasure, and, in the long term, is typically more successful.
It sounds good, but it really depends on the host nation's capabilities and motives. For example, in a country like Somalia where little organization exists, it won't work very well. Also, the size of the army matters. Fourtanetly, the ANA is over 100,000 and is growing.

However, one may argue, that you may need a "full force" initially. This may be necessary to restore immediate order and help set up the "right" partner.

I could see this working well in some scenarios. The OMLTs have been praised in Afghanistan (to bad there are many vacant spots).

Or, this may be a little out there, but consider hiring contractors to fulfill the jobs instead?

I just saw, but have yet to read an essay about the mentoring process.

Good comments.