The basic problem of the U.S Army is modernization. The Soviet buildup is central to this problem. Today we must contend with several historical facts. First, after World War II we enjoyed the atomic monopoly, but now the Soviets have achieved parity in the nuclear field. The second historical fact concerns the growth and momentum of the Soviet military capability, exclusive of its rocket forces. A third historical fact concerns the clear intent of the Soviet Union regarding its military power. It still regards warfare of all kinds as an appropriate instrument of foreign policy. Due to the war in the Middle East, we have a very clear picture of what conventional war looks like today. The U.S. Army is underfunded but is using its resources efficiently; it is the best peacetime army in U.S. history.