The top U.S. commander in Afghanistan is predicting the United States needs to prepare for heavy fighting during the upcoming year. General John Allen made the comment under questioning from Republican Senator John McCain of Arizona.

Sen. John McCain: “So, basically, you have no opinion here, at the end of March of 2012, as to what our military presence would be in 2013?”

Gen. John Allen: “Well, my opinion at this particular juncture, but it’s not my recommendation.”

Sen. John McCain: “What is your opinion at this particular juncture?”

Gen. John Allen: “My opinion is that we will need significant combat power in 2013, sir.”

Sen. John McCain: “Like 68,000?”

Gen. John Allen: “Sixty-eight thousand is a good going-in number sir, but I owe the President some analysis on that.”