Missile Defence in Contemporary Strategic and Political. Contexts: Its Relation to Deterrence and the Impact of the Third Site on Dynamics Among Relevant Actors

Abstract

The presented analysis deals with the issue area of missile defence (MD)
from the perspective of strategic studies. There are several objectives set
for the text, and these in turn shape its structure. First, the analysis
investigates the relationship between deterrence and MD. It debunks the
myth claiming that the former is replaced by the latter; instead, their
juxtaposition is acknowledged and demonstrated. This is made possible by
a nuanced discussion of deterrence that goes beyond its flawed
identification with the MAD logic. Subsequently, the Third Pillar of the US
MD project is examined. It is investigated both within a wider discussion of
bilateral USRussian relations and in the context of the accompanying
multilateral processes in NATO. The last tackled issue is a future link
between the Third Site and the Sino-US strategic dynamics. The argument is
summarised in the conclusion.