The United States remains relatively strong in the military hard-power attributes and most of the soft-power attributes necessary to influence—by attraction or coercion—the growth of like-minded global partnerships and continue to play an ascendant role in maintaining international norms of behavior. Its military forces are unmatched in capacit

These major categories are consistent throughout history, but their main competitive elements are not static. These evolve over time and update in accordance with the dynamic aspects of evolving technology, political ideas, and governing structures. To understand the future of GPC over the coming decade, we must evaluate the most likely protagonist

just deterrence of a nuclear strike by a rival.10 Great Powers may channel or expend their worst animus in competitive activities short of supremely destructive direct armed conflict. Military competition among Great Powers often includes shifting military alliances, arms races, proxy wars, and irregular martial activities.11 Great Powers also cons