"This ... book uses the concept of the 'arms dynamic' to identify and assess the various factors that influenced the arms acquisitions of some South-East Asian states during the Second Cold War period from 1979 to 1989. Its comprehensive and systematic explanation of the pattern of behaviour in arms procurement in South-East Asia in the 1980s provides a substantial basis for understanding contemporary developments. Looking at the key pressures that influenced the arms acquisitions of the states concerned, such as external threat assessment, the requirements of defence policy and strategy, technology and the role of extra-regional powers, the text also explores their variation between states and over time. This volume provides an excellent case study for courses on strategic studies, international relations and military history."--Back cover.