Modern War Studies: Defense Engagement since 1900

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Defense encompasses more than just military might, and the military's role extends beyond mere combat. In a time marked by global upheaval and political uncertainty, this volume aims to redefine defense engagement, emphasizing the use of military capabilities to exert soft power rather than relying solely on hard power. Drawing on applied military history, the authors present case studies from the twentieth century that highlight various aspects of defense engagement. They seek to transform the perception of a military from a forceful entity to one that employs power strategically, focusing on addressing the root causes of security threats rather than just managing their aftermath. The chapters, contributed by scholars and practitioners with diverse perspectives, primarily examine the British experience as a prominent example of utilizing military power for nonmartial policy objectives. Additionally, they explore events in the U.S., Canada, Japan, the Middle East, and Africa. Topics such as intelligence, diplomacy, deterrence, alliances, and coalitions are covered, emphasizing the need for a broad range of military attributes and capabilities in contemporary conflicts and national security strategies. The insights provided in this volume are crucial for strategic thinkers today, especially as democratic states face challenges posed by hybrid, subthreshold, and Gray Zone warfare.