Global arms trade

In this chapter, students will learn about the dynamics of the international arms trade. It examines the key trends in defence spending and the main characteristics of the global arms build-up, such as the increased emphasis on technologically sophisticated weapons systems, greater focus on maritime power, and the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs). The chapter also analyses the causes of the arms build-up, such as the rapid development of technology, economic growth, the desire for prestige, corruption, and the continued persistence of interstate tensions particularly as a result of the rise of China and the revival of Russia. The chapter ends by assessing international arms control and its major problems and prospects.