Our usefulness is predicated upon our capabilities that reflect how we have been trained, think, and operate. MPs represent an acceptable force to the international community, U.S. citizens, and the indigenous population in these operations. This was illustrated when an MP brigade was sent into Panama prior to the ousting of Noriega. The brigade was accepted as a force protecting U.S. citizens, not an invasion force. When the situation deteriorated to open warfare, MPs added their combat capability to the general effort.
Organizations conducting stability and support operations today face a changed threat.
Belligerents are often criminal elements who may enjoy support from corrupt government officials. MPs routinely operate in this environment in cooperation with other forces and agencies. MPs provide information on route conditions and regulate traffic on routes. This is done on a routine basis or pursuant to damage to routes from natural or manmade disasters. Area security operations.