The Right Stuff: Rule No. 1 to avoid war is deterrence

By Earl Heal

Earl Heal: The Right Stuff Deterrence is defined as measures taken by a nation to prevent hostile action by another nation. The definition seems complete but lacks a definition of measures. History provides ample examples of inadequate measures meaning nothing to the aggressor. For effectiveness, measures must maintain military capability sufficient to willingly and unquestionably overcome the nation that is considering hostile action. Diplomacy is the first line of protection but diplomacy without military capability renders the diplomat totally ineffective in negotiation. When Syria threatened chemical warfare, President Barack Obama stated that is a red line to not cross. Syria tested. Obama failed. Russia took over. Syria won.