ABSTRACT
The existence and well-being of a state in an international system that is characterized by quasi-anarchy and the "self-help principle," are at times critically dependent on the military posture the state adopts. A state's military doctrine constitutes a key element of this posture, and must therefore be tailored at all times to its grand strategy and, more broadly, to the state's goals and capabilities as well as constraints. History is replete with instances in which a military doctrine that fell short of meeting these requirements triggered or otherwise severely exacerbated acute national crises. 1 This requirement holds true especially for the State of Israel. Given Israel's existential struggle throughout the years of its independence, it has always been critically dependent on the efficacy of its military posture to ensure its survival.
