Soviet Military Strategy in the Cold War: A Critical Reassessment

Abstract

The Soviet military strategy during the Cold War has long been a subject of debate, with traditional interpretations often portraying the Soviet Union as a reactive and defensive power. This article critically reassesses the key components of Soviet military strategy during the Cold War, emphasizing both the doctrinal development and the strategic decision-making processes that guided the Soviet military leadership. Using newly declassified archival materials, the study explores the USSR's military modernization efforts, its nuclear strategy, and the role of military doctrine in shaping foreign policy. In particular, this research focuses on the development of Soviet operational art, which involved a deep commitment to mass mobilization and the strategic use of nuclear weapons as a deterrent. The paper also addresses the internal and external factors that influenced Soviet military policies, including the political leadership's interpretation of global power dynamics and its focus on countering NATO's military capabilities. This critical reassessment aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of Soviet military strategy, offering insights into the broader implications for global security during the Cold War period. The study concludes by reflecting on the Soviet military legacy and its lasting impact on Russian military doctrine in the post-Soviet era.