This thesis reviews US national security strategy (NSS) and US military engineering assistance (MEA) to Peru to see if MEA is employed consistent with NSS. It identifies and classifies US strategic interests in Peru. Finding US interests at stake, the thesis addresses whether and how the US should use MEA programs to secure those interests as part of nation assistance or security assistance. The investigation draws several conclusions. First, the US has important, non-vital interests in Peru. Second, the US has used its military component of national power to advance those interests, but not efficiently. Third, the US Country Team is increasing MEA as part of an "enlightened" approach to Peru. Fourth, MEA planning, coordination and execution can be further improved. The recommended changes involve: engineer staffing in the Security Assistance Office (SAO); integrated military planning and execution with the Peru Country Team; improved planning and review within USSOUTHCOM; a national military strategy recognizing a military, non-lethal, conflict-deterrence role; and, strengthening mechanisms for comprehensive planning and prioritization. The changes can enhance MEA and military planning in Peru. The thesis provides a framework for reviewing US interests and MEA in Peru with changing conditions over time.

ADA 257274 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)