This volume critically examines the evolving landscape of global security and military strategy during the pivotal years of 1982-1983. The International Institute for Strategic Studies, a renowned think tank, compiles this survey using data from governmental reports, military analyses, and expert consultations to provide a comprehensive overview of the period's key geopolitical tensions and defense postures. It argues that the era was characterized by a complex interplay of superpower rivalry, regional conflicts, and the accelerating pace of technological development in military capabilities.

This survey is regarded as a valuable resource for understanding the strategic dynamics of the early 1980s. Its detailed analysis of military capabilities and geopolitical tensions provides essential context for scholars and policymakers. The publication offers a snapshot of a critical period, highlighting the complex relationships between major global powers and the underlying factors driving international security concerns.