For this assignment in assessing, we will be evaluating the history of the United Kingdom’s military power. Over time, the British army experienced significant change. However, most of the shift began during the Napoleonic wars. Before then, the army had approximately 40,000 men. By the end of the period, the army underwent a series of structural, recruitment, tactical and training reforms. The British army also increased its workforce to about 250,000 men by 1813. The British infantry was the only military force that did not suffer a significant reverse at the hands of Napoleonic France. During the time, Napoleon had one of the best military power that was very effective in its operations.
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ASSESSING THE HISTORY OF UNITED KINGDOM’S MILITARY AND BRITISH MILITARY AND NAVAL STRENGTH
The British army was predominantly active in colonial warfare. The militia, on the other hand, supplemented home defence. Even so, the demand for men outrun the supply of volunteers. This was a signal of how much the UK military power needed to increase. In July 1799, the government began paying a bounty to militiamen who would volunteer for service with the regular army. This serves to show how the Napoleonic wars affected the structure and composition of the British army. The strength of the British army reduced to 95,800 after the Peace of Amiens. Inevitably the British attached primary importance to their navy. In 1803, the British had 34 ships of the line, 86 frigates in service and 49 frigates in reserve.
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REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS IN MODERN COUNTERINSURGENCY
Apart from the UK military power, this section addresses the issue of counterinsurgency. In particular, we will discuss the requirements for success in modern counterinsurgency. Firstly, you require a credible local, national government counterpart. This was not evident during the Napoleonic wars. A legitimate government supported by the people helps in addressing the fundamental causes that insurgents use to gain support. Secondly, counterinsurgency requires a coherent mission and operational mandate. This aspect helped the British army succeed. The government also requires control of the physical and human terrain. Typically, there are 20 counterinsurgents per 1000 residents. However, these figures vary depending on the situation.
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