Armies of Arabia

The book is essential reading for anyone interested in the history and current status of militaries of GCC states. * Chaoqun LIan, China International Strategy Review *
As the United States seeks to reduce its commitments in the Middle East, the critical question Americans must consider is the extent to which we can rely on our allies in the Gulf to finally defend themselves. Armies of Arabia should be the starting point for that debate and the policies that must flow from it. Never before has there been so comprehensive or thoughtful a treatment of the armed forces of the Gulf states. It is a work of tremendous erudition and insight that will set the terms for one of the most important issues facing the United States over the next decade. * Kenneth M. Pollack, author of Armies of Sand: The Past, Present, and Future of Arab Military Effectiveness *
In what is a remarkably detailed and thorough study, Barany has produced the most comprehensive and insightful book on the armed forces in the Arabian Peninsula to date. This important topic has long been neglected by those of us studying the region. Moving forward, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in a proper understanding of political and security issues in the GCC. * Mehran Kamrava, author of Inside the Arab State *
Barany lays out in unsparing detail the deficiencies of the military forces of the Gulf monarchies, attributing those deficiencies for the most part to their autocratic political systems and to the socioeconomic effects of great wealth on building effective citizen armies. His conclusions are supported by a thorough review of the published work and by extensive interviews with both Gulf and Western soldiers and military experts. A bracing and thought-provoking read. * F. Gregory Gause, III, Bush School of Government and Public Service, Texas A&M University *
A probing and superbly researched analysis of Arab Gulf military forces that goes far beyond military analysis to examine the impact of their modern history, political leadership, and the character of each monarchy. Barany addresses the impact of culture, economics, tribalism, and the military's broader role in each country's strategy, as well as dependence on foreign soldiers, arms sales, and contractors. The result is key reference for understanding the military factors that shape Gulf security and stability. * Anthony H. Cordesman, Burke Chair in Strategy, CSIS *
...the book is less an exposition of the enduring characteristics of Gulf militaries and more a snapshot as these forces proceed through the same uneven process of professional growth as other militaries before them. * Nikolas Gardner, Middle East Quarterly *