Deterrence

Our task is to see that potential aggressors, from whatever quarter, understand plainly that the capacity and the resolve of the West would deny them victory in war, and that the price they would pay would be intolerable. That is the basis of deterrence. —Margaret...

Preparing for war

Therefore, those who desire peace should prepare for war. —Vegetius. Epitome de re militari. The best way to avoid war is to prepare for it. Aggressors are not guided by common decency—they appreciate only force. Being prepared to fight is no guarantee of peace. There...

The nature of war

War is comprehensive of most, if not all the mischiefs which do or ever can afflict men: It depopulates nations; lays waste the finest countries; destroys arts, sciences, and learning; butchers innocents; ruins the best men and advances the worst; effaces every trace...