A Hard Look At Hard Power

This paper surveys the hard-power capabilities of key US allies and partners and the United States’ most significant multilateral alliance, NATO. The chapters on specific countries examine the countries’ defense budgets, programs, research and development efforts, doctrinal updates, strategic guidance documents, and defense “white papers.”

In addition, the volume has chapters on key frontline states India, Sweden, and Taiwan. Finally, the chapter on NATO analyzes its current capabilities, policies, and reform efforts.

Accounting for these elements of hard power sheds light on the ability—and, indirectly, the will and intention—of US allies and partners to use force independently or in concert with the United States and other allies to address current threats and sustain global or regional peace and stability.