Threat Proximity and Defense Response:
A Comparative Analysis of Military Spending Transformation in Seven Eastern European NATO States
Threat Proximity and Defense Response:
A Comparative Analysis of Military Spending Transformation in Seven Eastern European NATO States
Author(s): Cezar VasilescuSubject(s): Political Sciences, Security and defense, Military policy, Methodology and research technology, Geopolitics
Published by: Univerzita obrany - Centrum bezpečnostních a vojenskostrategických studií
Keywords: Deterrence Credibility; Defence Spending; Geographic Adjacency; Military Transformation; Threat Perception;
Summary/Abstract: This research examines post-2022 defence transformation among seven Eastern European NATO members, identifying patterns that nuance existing burden-sharing theories and refine understanding of regional security dynamics. Through a systematic comparative analysis incorporating quantitative spending data, procurement classifications, and geographic threat assessments (2021-2025), the study tests whether increased military expenditure translates into credible deterrence. The investigation analyzes spending-capability correlations and geographic proximity effects on response intensity, revealing that unprecedented defense budget expansion coexists with unresolved sustainability concerns. The Capacity-Capability-Credibility (CCC) framework serves as the primary analytical lens, with geography establishing baseline threat response intensity and political factors mediating response magnitude.
Journal: Vojenské rozhledy
- Issue Year: 35/2026
- Issue No: 1
- Page Range: 87-100
- Page Count: 14
- Language: English
