Management or Misdirection—Competing Logics for Military-to-Military Contacts between Great-Power Rivals

Authors

Travis Sharp, Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments

Number

4

Abstract

Contacts between militaries have long been viewed as positive, but history demonstrates their potential for exploitation. The intensity of great-power competition requires a more thorough understanding of the logics behind these activities. This novel typology of the different motivations behind pursuing or engaging in contacts with another military suggests how planners and practitioners can best plan how, and whether, to engage with rivals and friends alike.

Recommended Citation

Sharp, Travis (2025) "Management or Misdirection—Competing Logics for Military-to-Military Contacts between Great-Power Rivals," Naval War College Review: Vol. 78: No. 1, Article 4.
Available at: https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/nwc-review/vol78/iss1/4