Neoclassical realism and defence reform in post-Cold War Europe

About this book

Neoclassical Realism and Defence Reform in Post-Cold War Europe examines the extent to which the defence policies of Britain, France and Germany have converged during the post-Cold War era. It focuses on four key dimensions of defence reform: policy objectives; policy instruments; international cooperation; and the timing of defence reform. The study provides new insights into the 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' dynamics of defence reform. Dyson explores the impact of systemic factors, such as the role of unipolarity, and the impact of the US-led Revolution in Military Affairs on European defence reforms. He also examines the impact on the dynamics of defence reform of learning processes following post-Cold War operational experiences and of organisational politics between the individual Services. In addition, the study assesses the effect of culture, ideology, nationalism and of domestic material power relations in determining the ability of European states to respond to the imperatives of the post-Cold War security environment. In doing so the author develops a new theoretical approach to defence reform that builds on the insights of neoclassical realism.