The Cold War ended quietly, but not decisively. Many who were in power in the Soviet block remain active in the political life of the new nations that replaced it. Collapsed empires create great uncertainty. Corporations specializing in defense technologies must find their own way in a maze of politics. The armed services are confused about their own future and can offer little guidance.
Politicians are unlikely to lengthen their time perspectives beyond the next election.
There are many technological opportunities, but none have an assured future. Privatization and mergers create the appearance of action, but still leave open the long-term strategy to pursue. Members of the MIT program that studies international security strategies will share their insights with you on these and related issues. The course will focus on the factors that determine corporate and national strategies. The first session will discuss national grand strategies.