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 book is the student text for a training course "designed to present a composite picture of the offensive and defensive posture of the Air Force today and the part it plays in the defense of the Nation and Free World" (Preface, p. v). It consists of five chapters: The Air Defense Command: Its Mission and Current Operations; Nuclear Weapons and the Free World; The United States Air Force in the Pacific; The Strategic Air Command: Its Mission and Current Operations; and A Review of Some Developments in the Air Force. Each chapter includes background information, review questions, and a list of suggested readings for further study.