ABSTRACT
That the Pacific region is destined to become the main focus of superpower rivalry can scarcely be doubted. Although in global terms it remains in the shadow of Europe -- and most Pacific states would prefer it stayed that way -- forces are at work shifting the strategic center of gravity slowly toward East Asia. What is more, the Soviet challenge in the Pacific will intensify at a time of growing turbulence and fluidity in world affairs and when the margins for maneuver -- and error -- of both global Goliaths are likely to be slender.
