deployment of the forces, or the percentages of forces able to be used effectively off station and the capabilities necessary for mobility and logistical support; sustainability of the forces, or the percentage of forces able to be used for long operating cycles off station, prepared therefore with technical resources, logistical support and the need for unit rotation time. 117. The values for these benchmarks, collectively identified by NATO countries, are an essential minimum target for the military forces, which need to be achieved and maintained over time. The allocation of adequate resources to achieve these results is, therefore, a key priority. Compatibly, the financial framework that is now available has seen a reversal in the trend of spending in the area of maintenance operations, in adherence to what was agreed by NATO. 118. When identifying and implementing the correct levels of force readiness and preparation for the medium and long term, it should be pointed out that there is time delay between immediate intervention and an optimal military response. Defence is well aware that this involves handling new and unpredictable circumstances with existing assets. To mitigate these risks, strategy identified plans, act along three lines: - to provide an adequate flow of information and an effective capability for analysis and strategic assessment, to better appreciate the evolution of the situation and needs to facilitate any preparation for what is necessary; - identify, preserve and enhance the traditional operational capabilities, the level of capability reached and quality of adopted systems, in the areas of excellence that concerns the “National System.” These capabilities form the backbone of the national contribution to any international coalition of operations outside the priority areas of intervention, but also the priority areas aimed towards the gradual process of European integration; - when managing less likely high intensity operational scenarios, focus is put on maintaining a significant deterrent capability that is constituted by an integrated modern, combat force, perfectly integrated with multinational forces, and for a limited period. In the same spirit, Defence looks to maintain, wherever possible, a sufficiently broad base of embryonic operational capabilities, which are operationally employable, and can eventually be expanded to address changing scenarios. - 54 -