Download

Download Full Text (284 KB)

Description

This Strategic Forum examines key issues facing a new U.S. administration in reassessing the nation’s strategic posture. It argues that post–Cold War conditions require a more integrated approach to deterrence that accounts for evolving threats from Russia, China, and emerging regional actors. The authors evaluate the role of nuclear forces, missile defense, and arms control in maintaining strategic stability while adapting to new security challenges. The paper highlights the need to balance offensive and defensive capabilities, sustain the credibility of extended deterrence, and modernize elements of the nuclear force structure. It concludes that a coherent strategic framework, linking nuclear policy, missile defense, and broader defense strategy, is essential to ensure effective deterrence and national security in a changing threat environment.

Document Type

Policy Brief

Region(s)

United States, Russia, China

Topic(s)

Nuclear Deterrence and Escalation, Nuclear Policy, National Security

Publication Date

2-2001

Publication

Strategic Forum

Publisher

National Defense University Press

City

Washington, DC

Keywords

U.S. strategic posture, nuclear deterrence, nuclear policy, strategic deterrence, nuclear triad, force modernization, arms control, strategic stability, missile defense, extended deterrence

The U.S. Strategic Posture Review: Issues for the New Administration

Share

COinS