Nonoffensive Defence

Throughout the 1980s, but especially since the destruction of the Berlin Wall and the onset of the East European revolutions of 1989-90, numerous calls were made for Nato to change its strategy to one in which nuclear weapons played either a much smaller role or none at all. Among proposed alternatives were several so-called "defensive" strategies: the weaponry, equipment, structure and doctrine of Nato forces should reflect their defensive mission, with offensive capabilities being sharply reduced if not eradicated. Such a defensive posture would, it was argued, reassure Nato's neighbours and ultimately pave the way for a pan-European, common security system. The 1989-90 revolutions in the Eastern Bloc and the process of European integration have strengthened interest in such concepts. Dr Gates' book examines key military, political, economic, technical and philosophical aspects of them, setting their pitfalls and potential within the wider framework of mankind's ongoing quest for security and peace.