ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines West European perceptions and Lawrence Caldwell analyzes Soviet perceptions of the changing strategic environment pointing out how different perceptions could result in varying policy options. It argues that the essential problem that confronts American military strategists: namely, a lack of definitive and useful guidance from policymakers which can be used to guide the development of forces. The book suggests that the United States needs to improve its rapid intervention, forcible entry capabilities for Third World contingencies. The military reform movement has presented one of the most vocal and prolific critiques of US force structure, operational doctrine, and weapons acquisition policies. The level and intensity of national interests should tell a military strategist how much force and risk decisionmakers are willing to use to defend a particular interest.
