Defense Policy

This chapter discusses the defense policy structure, outlines the major participants in defense policy, examines Cold War defense policy as the beginning of modern US defense policy, describes the nuclear arms race and major weapons treaties, and looks at post–Cold War, post 9/11, and current defense policy. The Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union fostered the need to coordinate defense policy with diplomatic foreign policy. Defense contractors—economic interests—are aware that decisions made by the elected officials and administrators impact current and future profits. Industry lobbyists are in close contact with defense policy administrators and elected officials, discussing weapons systems development and equipment needs.