This work defines national security strategy, its objectives, and the challenges it faces in the contemporary global landscape. The authors, drawing on their expertise, present a model for assessing strategic risks and allocating resources within the constraints of a post-Cold War, post-9/11 world. They explore the unique threats posed by the United States' status as the sole superpower, including the rise of asymmetrical and fourth-generation warfare, and examine the ongoing difficulties in formulating strategy amidst a constantly evolving international environment.

This book is presented as an introductory text for understanding modern national security processes and problems. The authors' approach centers on risk management and resource allocation, offering a framework for analysis. The content addresses the unique geopolitical position of the United States and the evolving nature of warfare. The work aims to synthesize these factors to explain the complexities of strategy formulation in the current global context.