1. In determining "how much is enough" in defense expenditures, marginal analysis - looking at the incremental benefit from increased expenditures - is essential.
2. Alternative views of overall defense strategy are important determinants of defense needs. During the Cold War, attention was focused on deterrence; President Reagan initiated the Strategic Defense Initiative; more recently, debate has focused on the desirability of having a two-theatre capability. There is increasing concern over nuclear proliferation and cyberspace threats, and over the use by rogue states and nonstate entities of chemical and biological warfare and terrorism.
3. The Defense Department has attempted to increase its efficiency by reforming its procurement
2. Alternative views of overall defense strategy are important determinants of defense needs. During the Cold War, attention was focused on deterrence; President Reagan initiated the Strategic Defense Initiative; more recently, debate has focused on the desirability of having a two-theatre capability. There is increasing concern over nuclear proliferation and cyberspace threats, and over the use by rogue states and nonstate entities of chemical and biological warfare and terrorism.
3. The Defense Department has attempted to increase its efficiency by reforming its procurement