Ballistic Missile Proliferation in Non-Nuclear States (Routledge Global Security Studies)

This book offers an exploration of ballistic missile proliferation in the Middle East and also delves into the geopolitical landscape to unveil a narrative of contemporary Middle Eastern history.

The central focus of this book is to decipher the pivotal moments when three regional powers of the Middle East - Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Iran - embraced ballistic capabilities as a strategic response to military vulnerabilities. The authors contend that the very essence of ballistic proliferation incorporates a tactical rationale provided by military needs that varies from one state to another, and it is upon the assessment of these military needs that the decision to procure ballistic missiles is made. Offering a blend of theoretical insights and primary sources-based case studies, this book dissects the decision-making processes that spurred these states to choose ballistic missiles, despite their inefficiencies in delivering conventional payloads. The absence of an effective air force emerges as a catalyst, triggering what the authors term a ‘moment of ballistic consciousness.' Spanning three diverse regimes, the work provides a rich historical tapestry and untangles the complexities of political decisions with military implications, providing a fresh perspective on global power dynamics. This narrative sheds light on the intersection of military strategy, geopolitical realities, and the pursuit of ballistic capabilities that shapes the world's security landscape.

This book will be of much interest to students of arms control, nuclear proliferation, Middle Eastern politics, and International Relations.

Karim El-Baz is an assistant professor of Political Science program at Galala University and research fellow at the Royal Military College of Canada. Dr. El-Baz’s research focuses on WMD delivery vehicles proliferation in the Middle East with specific emerging technologies, missiles, and drones. Dr. El-Baz is a frequent contributor to several academic journals, thinktanks, and policy research centers and been cited in several research entities, including the Congress Research Service and Forbes.

Ali Ghanbarpour-Dizboni is an Associate Professor and Chair of Military and Strategic Studies Programme as well as Director of the Research Group Dialogue on Emerging Military Technologies at the Department of Political Science and Economics, Royal Military College of Canada, and Senior Research Fellow affiliated with CIDP at Queen’s University, Canada. Dr Dizboni’s research focuses on IR & Security Studies and Middle East Strategic Affairs. Dr. Dizboni is a contributor to academic journals, news media, and research centers.