Optimal deterrence: how the United States can preserve peace and prevent a nuclear arms race with China and Russia

Executive Summary
Introduction
The Security Environment: Bad and Getting Worse
The Costs of Counterforce: Arms Racing
The Costs of Counterforce: Escalation Risks
The Overstated Case for Damage Limitation
U.S. Allies: Caught Between Plymouth Rock and a Hard Place
A Better Way Forward: Optimal Deterrence
Recommendations for U.S. Policy
Conclusions
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Endnotes