What does Foreign Internal Defense involve?

Foreign Internal Defense (FID) refers to the assistance provided to foreign governments to help them combat internal disturbances, which can include insurgency, terrorism, and other forms of internal conflict. This support is primarily aimed at fostering stability and security within the host nation. Personnel involved in FID operations often engage in advisory roles, training local military and security forces, and helping to improve governance and infrastructure.

The focus of FID is not on direct combat operations, but rather on building the capabilities of the local forces to effectively handle their own security challenges. This can include advising on counterinsurgency tactics, providing logistical support, and fostering civil-military relationships. By empowering the local forces and government, FID seeks to create a sustainable approach to maintaining internal security, thereby reducing the need for direct foreign military intervention.

Understanding the broader context of counterinsurgency and nation-building efforts helps clarify why assistance to foreign governments is the essence of Foreign Internal Defense. It highlights the strategic importance of creating self-sufficient partners that can manage their own security challenges, ultimately benefiting both the foreign nation and contributing to global security.