Technology, Strategy and National Security

Technology affects Department of Defense planning and strategy, and consequently, US security. Whether it relates to a specific weapon system such as the B-1bomber, or to doctrinal issues such as the AirLand concept for battle in NATO Europe, almost every major defense-related question today touches on technology in some form. Although weapon advances have helped the United States meet its defense needs - especially the challenge of growing Soviet military strength - they also raise issues which call for examination.The series of seminars from which this volume originated identified major issues which advancing technology poses for US Armed Forces. As the co-editor, Dr. Ralph Sanders, notes in the Introduction, general agreement was reached on two points. First, the Soviets already have narrowed the US technological lead and will work to surpass it in the future. Second, the quality of American arms must give US forces the capability to deter war and, should deterrence fail, to win.This collection offers insights that should help us better understand the effects of technological change on US defense strategy.Richard D. LawrenceLieutenant General, United States ArmyPresident, National Defense UniversityMargiotta, Franklin D. is the author of 'Technology, Strategy and National Security' with ISBN 9781410204110 and ISBN 1410204111.