The recent remarkable changes in world politics have demanded a redefinition of the role of the United States in the international community. In this book naval analyst James L. George makes a penetrating assessment of the U.S. Navy in the post-Cold War era and offers a likely scenario of options and opportunities over the next decade and beyond. Following a helpful look at the Navy's development since World War II, Dr. George stresses the importance of mission analysis and shows that the service is likely to play a more central role in nuclear deterrence. He believes that an added responsibility will be placed on the Navy for European and Atlantic defenses, and that its already significant involvement in Third World operations may grow. Extensive base closings around the world will necessarily limit the effectiveness of the other services, increasing the importance of naval presence and readiness in what will remain a volatile Third World theater. In light of altered missions, Dr. George closely analyzes force composition and the roles of naval aircraft, surface combatants, and submarines, as well as the continuing need for a "blue water" navy. He does not ignore the Marines, explaining how continuing drawdowns across the military spectrum may enhance their importance. The author considers the lessons learned from Desert Shield and Desert Storm; he also probes the unknowns of naval arms control and several so-called New World paradigms. Dr. George's vision entails not just "less of the same," but a significant reconfiguration of U.S. naval forces and missions into the twenty-first century. It is must reading for all those interested in the Navy's future.