James T. Quinlivan

This report analyzes defense options available to the United States in responding to current and emerging threats to U. S. security and interests in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. It focuses on ways that the United States might adapt military instruments to meet these emerging challenges, assessing in broad terms the cost of defense investments commensurate with the interests at stake.

Through a variety of policies and actions and most recently in a new military doctrine adopted in February 2010 Russia has indicated the types of situations and threats that might cause it to resort to using nuclear weapons. This volume examines Russia's evolving framework for nuclear deterrence and its implications for U. S. military operations in Europe.

As Iran's nuclear program evolves, U. S. decisionmakers will confront a series of critical policy choices involving complex considerations and policy trade-offs. These policy choices could involve dissuading Iran from developing nuclear weapons; deterring Iran from using its nuclear weapons, if it were to acquire them; and, reassuring U. S. regional partners. The U. S. Air Force will need to prepare to carry out whatever policies are chosen.