Alliance strength depends on conviction

An alliance is weakened most by the member with the least conviction, rather than simply the one spending the least on defense. A coalition's aggregate weapons and personnel cannot compensate for doubt that one participant will honor the commitment under pressure. Effective deterrence projects both physical and moral strength so clearly that fighting does not enter the opponent's calculation. The first question should become how to talk, rather than whether an attack can succeed. Professional armed forces achieve their purpose when their capability and resolve prevent the war they are prepared to fight.