Sources of Conflict in the 21st Century: Strategic Flashpoints and U.S. Strategy

As the millenium approaches, defense analysts begin to wonder how many of today's leading adversaries will remain adversaries. Will longstanding allies change their orientation? Who will be called on to intervene, and where? Can we expect stability, or chaos? This book examines current political trends and potential sources of conflict in three critical regions - Asia, the Greater Middle East, and Europe and the former Soviet Union - through the year 2025. The authors describe possible alternative strategic "worlds, " including a projection of today's mixed political climate, a more benign world in which the great powers are at peace and are actively cooperative, and a world beset with economic, demographic, and political turmoil. Additional chapters provide a detailed discussion of regional trends and their meaning for strategy and planning. Through thoughtful analysis of current trends and the careful projection of the political-military climate of the future, defense planners will be better equipped to take on the challenges of the 21st century.