ABSTRACT
The interaction of the respective strategic doctrines of the super-Powers, as perceived by each of them, has been an important factor affecting their nuclear relationship. An emphasis was placed on both numerical equality and on the capacity to prevent the Soviet Union from acquiring the ability to cause greater damage to the United States than would be inflicted on the Soviet Union by the Americans in a nuclear war. More flexible options have required greater accuracy, more refined warheads in terms of yield and nuclear effects, and much greater demands on command, control and communications. The prominence given by the Ronald Reagan Administration to Soviet war-fighting capabilities, and of the need of the United States to respond to them, has led to the Administration's own strategic policy being interpreted as moving towards nuclear war-fighting. In substance there has been little in the Reagan Administration's strategic doctrine that departs from that of its predecessor.
