What is the importance of sustainability in SFA?

Sustainability in Security Force Assistance (SFA) is critically important as it ensures that partner forces can maintain their capabilities independently after the assistance has concluded. This aspect of sustainability is pivotal because the ultimate goal of SFA is to build self-reliance among partner nations. When the capability is maintained by the local forces without external support, it indicates that the training and resources provided during the SFA process were effective and enduring. Successful sustainability leads to long-term stability and security in the region by enabling these forces to respond to challenges autonomously.

This concept transcends the immediate benefits of military support, as it emphasizes developing the institutional frameworks, operational readiness, and logistical support necessary for the partner forces to thrive independently. Overall, sustainability is about instilling a sense of ownership and capacity within the partner nation to ensure that while external assistance may be necessary initially, the governance and security responsibilities ultimately rest with them, thus fostering long-term peace and security.