This book is the student text for a training course designed "to provide Reserve officers with a better understanding of the cold war; of the organization, resources, and methods used by the enemy to accomplish his aims; and of the strengths and weaknesses of the Communist World and Free World" (Introduction, p. vi). It consists of five lessons: The Communist Threat; The Soviet Nonmilitary Front; The Soviet Military Front: Doctrine and Organization; The Communist World: Strengths and Weaknesses; and The Free World: Strengths and Weaknesses. Each lesson includes background information, review questions, and a list of suggested readings for further study.

This booklet is the third unit of a training course developed for Air Reserve personnel about the military forces of Communist countries. This unit discusses China's economic development and includes background information, review questions, and a list of suggested readings for further study.