The book begins by establishing the historical context of the Cold War, tracing its origins to the post-World War II geopolitical landscape. It analyzes the exponential growth of nuclear arsenals, detailing the development of increasingly sophisticated weapons systems like ICBMs and SLBMs. A significant portion investigates covert weapons programs, including biological and chemical weapons research. Cold War Arms distinguishes itself by providing a balanced assessment, avoiding simplistic narratives and highlighting the roles of leaders, innovations, and bureaucratic processes. The book progresses from the early stages of competition to the height of armament expansions, ultimately focusing on de-escalation and its lasting effects.