ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of the book. The book examines the Western response to the Soviet maritime presence in and around Northern Waters. It deals with both the political and military reaction of the Nordic states, especially the NATO members. The book looks at America’s Maritime Strategy, especially as it affects Northern Waters. These two different perspectives agree on certain factors. The book compares the naval strength of the Soviet Union in Northern Waters with that of the Western powers. This calls into question the extent of the ‘Soviet threat’ to which the West is responding. In the end, much of the debate about the Maritime Strategy may be premature, especially if in future the resources are not available to allow its full implementation. Furthermore, much of the speculation is dependent on the Soviet response to the strategy, and little is known about that as yet.
