ABSTRACT
The character of war is constantly changing; even the nature of war may change with the introduction of new technology. But for the near future, the recognized, legitimate countries of the world will deal with enemies near and abroad in conflict over political goals and the future of mankind. Soldiers and civilians will die as a result; war is an inescapable part of human nature. In the near future, the great powers and several minor powers will have to deal with the Middle East. Based in part on religious ideology and the mutual exclusivity of beliefs, groups will fight, seeking to destroy and overthrow their enemies, real and perceived. In the near future, space and cyber becomes even more important than they are today in the military, economic, and information domains. Peace should be the goal, but preparations for war must unfortunately continue.
