The Evolution of US Base Strategy: The Case Study of West Asia

After announcing the new strategic priority of the United States based on competition with the great powers especially China, US changes its strategy and is looking for ways to optimize its presence around the world,focusing on increasing its presence in the East Asia.West Asia was not an exception and we saw decrease and change of US military presence, especially in Afghanistan and the closure of three US bases in Qatar and deployment of forces to Jordan.Therefore,the main question of the present research is that to what extent,changes in U.S. Strategic priorities affect US military presence and its basing strategy in the West Asia?By using a descriptive-analytical method,the current research shows US is moving toward smaller and decentralized bases,as well as strengthening the"offshore balancing" approach.US will also have more emphasis on non-military tools, strengthening the deterrent capability of partners and allies(especially missile capability) and also networking of its facilities and capacities and the use of modern technologies in its presence.In addition, the United States appears to be seeking to use a hybrid model for its bases in the West Asia region.This model is a mixture of US traditional bases which are now controlled by host countries, some traditional bases which are currently under US control and also some new ones.In this regard, US is establishing some new bases which have emphasis on resiliency, versatility, educational function, networking and communication, decentralization and smallness and wider geographical distribution. These elements are among the most important elements of new US basing strategy