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, Key Concepts in International Security, Warfare, and Global Trade.pdf Key Concepts in International Security, Warfare, and Global Trade.pdf Key Concepts in International Security, Warfare, and Global Trade.pdf
5/28/26, 11:50 AM Key Concepts in International Security, Warfare, and Global Trade Flashcards | Quizlet
counterinsurgency a military and political strategy used by states to defeat insurgent groups by combining
armed force with efforts to win civilian support. Its significance lies in recognizing that
modern conflicts are often fought among populations rather than between regular
armies. Counterinsurgency emphasizes legitimacy and governance as much as military
success. The U.S. strategy in Iraq after 2007 is a major example.
Power projection refers to a state's ability to deploy and sustain military forces beyond its borders. It is
significant because it allows great powers to influence events globally and deter
potential adversaries. Power projection often depends on advanced logistics, bases, and
naval or air capabilities. U.S. aircraft carrier strike groups illustrate this concept.
Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) are nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons capable of causing large-scale death and
destruction. They are significant because they pose existential threats to states and
global security. International efforts aim to limit their spread through treaties and norms.
Nuclear weapons are the most prominent example of WMDs.
Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) are long-range missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads across continents. Their
significance lies in providing a credible second-strike capability, reinforcing nuclear
deterrence. ICBMs form a key component of strategic stability between nuclear powers.
The U.S. Minuteman III missile system is an example.
Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) systems are defensive technologies designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles. They
are significant because they can undermine deterrence by potentially neutralizing a
retaliatory strike. The 1972 ABM Treaty limited their deployment to preserve strategic
stability. Modern missile defense systems revive debates over this balance.
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State-sponsored terrorism occurs when governments support non-state actors who use violence against civilians
for political purposes. It is significant because it blurs the line between state and non-
state conflict. Such actions can destabilize regions while allowing states plausible
deniability. Cold War support for proxy militant groups provides examples.
The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is an international agreement aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons while
promoting peaceful nuclear energy. Its significance lies in limiting nuclear weapons to a
small number of states and encouraging disarmament. The treaty reinforces global norms
against nuclear proliferation. IAEA inspections under the NPT demonstrate its operation.
Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) is a nuclear deterrence theory where opposing sides possess the ability to destroy each
other completely. Its significance is that it discourages nuclear war by making it irrational.
MAD shaped Cold War strategic behavior. U.S.-Soviet nuclear standoffs exemplified this
logic.
The Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) was a U.S. Cold War proposal to create space-based missile defenses. It was significant
because it challenged MAD by suggesting nuclear war could be defended against. SDI
increased tensions and arms race fears. It became known as "Star Wars."
The Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) seeks to ban all nuclear test explosions. Its significance lies in limiting the development of
new nuclear weapons. Although widely supported, it has not fully entered into force. A
global nuclear test moratorium reflects its influence.
The Strategic Triad refers to a nuclear force structure composed of land-based missiles, submarine-
launched missiles, and strategic bombers. Its significance lies in ensuring a secure
second-strike capability. The triad enhances deterrence by making nuclear forces more
survivable. The U.S. and Russia both maintain triads.
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