The Defence of the Realm in the 1980s

This book, first published in 1980, examines the factors that limited the choices available to the British government in the latter years of the Cold War, including technological advances, costs, changes in power, and strategic thinking.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, first published in 1980, is a comprehensive examination of Britain's defense policy in the final years of the Cold War. It delves into the various factors that shaped the government's decision-making process, encompassing technological advancements, financial constraints, shifts in global power dynamics, strategic thinking in both Western and Eastern spheres, and their profound implications for the development of forces and armaments.

The author begins by providing a historical backdrop, outlining the events and developments that led to the emergence of the Cold War. They then delve into the challenges faced by Britain in maintaining its military capabilities in the face of mounting Soviet aggression. The book explores the technological advancements that played a crucial role in shaping Britain's defense strategy, such as the development of nuclear weapons, ballistic missiles, and stealth technology.

Furthermore, it examines the economic costs associated with maintaining a robust military presence, including the impact on government budgets and the workforce. The author also discusses the changes in the balance of power between the United States and the Soviet Union, and how these shifts affected Britain's defense posture.

Strategic thinking is another key theme in the book. The author analyzes the different approaches taken by Western and Eastern powers in the Cold War, including the doctrines of deterrence, containment, and mutually assured destruction. They also explore the impact of these strategies on Britain's defense policy, including the development of nuclear-armed submarines and the deployment of troops in Europe.

The consequences of these decisions for the development of forces and armaments are also examined. The author discusses the impact of technological advancements on the size and composition of military forces, as well as the changing nature of warfare. They also explore the role of arms control agreements and disarmament processes in shaping the global security landscape.

In conclusion, this book provides a detailed and insightful analysis of Britain's defense policy in the Cold War. It sheds light on the complex factors that shaped the government's decisions, and their profound implications for the development of forces and armaments. The book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the history and dynamics of the Cold War era.

This book, first published in 1980, is a comprehensive examination of Britain's defense policy in the final years of the Cold War. It delves into the various factors that shaped the government's decision-making process, encompassing technological advancements, financial constraints, shifts in global power dynamics, strategic thinking in both Western and Eastern spheres, and their profound implications for the development of forces and armaments.

The author begins by providing a historical backdrop, outlining the events and developments that led to the emergence of the Cold War. They then delve into the challenges faced by Britain in maintaining its military capabilities in the face of mounting Soviet aggression. The book explores the technological advancements that played a crucial role in shaping Britain's defense strategy, such as the development of nuclear weapons, ballistic missiles, and stealth technology.

Furthermore, it examines the economic costs associated with maintaining a robust military presence, including the impact on government budgets and the workforce. The author also discusses the changes in the balance of power between the United States and the Soviet Union, and how these shifts affected Britain's defense posture.

Strategic thinking is another key theme in the book. The author analyzes the different approaches taken by Western and Eastern powers in the Cold War, including the doctrines of deterrence, containment, and mutually assured destruction. They also explore the impact of these strategies on Britain's defense policy, including the development of nuclear-armed submarines and the deployment of troops in Europe.

The consequences of these decisions for the development of forces and armaments are also examined. The author discusses the impact of technological advancements on the size and composition of military forces, as well as the changing nature of warfare. They also explore the role of arms control agreements and disarmament processes in shaping the global security landscape.

In conclusion, this book provides a detailed and insightful analysis of Britain's defense policy in the Cold War. It sheds light on the complex factors that shaped the government's decisions, and their profound implications for the development of forces and armaments. The book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the history and dynamics of the Cold War era.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367611927