The impetus for this overhaul, it is said, is the war on Iraq. This has led the US authorities to conclude that their armed forces must be moulded to the "new reality" and "new threats" they face. Many recent statements from US generals have indicated that change was on its way. Uncle Sam still needs you, their message goes, but the structure of the army must be transformed. Rumour has it: Bush has been planning this for a while. Even more unbelievabe: he has a concrete, detailed plan to real;ise his vision of the New American Army. The Army will become more "dynamic", relying on mobile subdivisions equipped with the latest cutting edge military technology. They would be able to, with support from the air, to "complete their tasks in the shortest possible time". It is thought that US mini-nukes would fit into this, dare I say "bliz-kreig" approach whereby the New US army will be able to "go it alone". Seems like allies are set to be a thing of the past.

Meanwhile: the American authorities have issued a statement regarding their presence in Iraq. The Joint UK-US command: General Ricardo Sanchez announced that US troops expect to stay in Iraq for a minimum of 2 years. The stated reason? to rebuild the Iraqi Army.

Hmm.