Defense policy choices for the Bush administration, 2001-05

"Despite President Bush's allegations during the 2000 campaign, today's U.S. military is not in dire distress. In fact, the recent downsizing of the American armed forces has undoubtedly been the most successful in the nation's history. The president was right, however, that strains have emerged in a military that was very busy throughout the 1990s and remains so today. Moreover, equipment purchased largely during the 1980s must soon be replaced, necessitating a considerable increase in defense spending simply to retain current capabilities. New threats ranging from global terrorist networks to a gradually strengthening China to proliferation of missile technology also demand attention. In this book, Michael O'Hanlon suggests ways to make defense spending more efficient - and to limit the need for real budget increases - without weakening U.S. military capabilities and overseas deterrence and engagement, while at the same time preparing for the likely threats of the future."--BOOK JACKET.