Cold War Arms explores the high-stakes superpower competition between the United States and the Soviet Union, focusing on the nuclear arms race and its profound impact on global politics and military strategy. It examines how the relentless build-up of nuclear weapon stockpiles and clandestine weapons programs shaped international relations during the 20th century. The book argues that the arms race, intended as a deterrent, paradoxically heightened the risk of accidental war due to technological escalation, ideological rigidity, and misperceptions. Readers will gain insights into the precarious nature of Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) and the complex interplay of political calculations and strategic missteps that defined this era.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.