Wettrüsten

Wettrüsten, a German term meaning "arms race," describes a competitive escalation between two or more parties—typically nations or military alliances—increasing their military capabilities in response to perceived threats or the actions of rivals. This dynamic often occurs during periods of geopolitical tension, where each side seeks to gain a strategic advantage through arms buildup, technological advancements, or expanded military deployments.

The concept of wettrüsten is rooted in the logic of deterrence, where the accumulation of weapons and forces is intended to prevent conflict by making aggression too costly. Historically, such races have played a significant role in shaping international relations, particularly during the Cold War, when the United States and the Soviet Union engaged in a prolonged competition in nuclear, conventional, and space-based military capabilities. The arms control treaties of that era, such as the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) and the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, were attempts to mitigate the destabilizing effects of such competition.

Wettrüsten can occur in various domains, including nuclear weapons, missile defense systems, cyber warfare, and conventional military hardware. While it may serve as a deterrent, it can also lead to heightened instability, increased defense spending, and a broader risk of miscalculation or accidental escalation. Critics argue that such races often divert resources from economic or social development, exacerbating global inequalities and fostering a climate of mutual distrust.

Modern examples of wettrüsten include the U.S.-China military competition in the Indo-Pacific, where both nations expand their naval and air forces, as well as Russia’s military buildup in response to NATO expansion. Diplomacy and arms control mechanisms remain essential tools to manage such dynamics and reduce the risks associated with unchecked arms races.