COMPETITIVENESS AND GLOBAL LEADERSHIP

With the end of the cold war two major developments in the world have taken place. First, regional trade pacts and alliances have taken on added value as a mechanism for economic growth and prosperity (e.g., North America Free Trade Agreement, European Unity, etc.). Second, the patterns of competition on a worldwide basis are changing more rapidly than ever. Along with these developments, a new understanding of global leadership has emerged. Global leadership is no longer measured solely by military strength. Indeed, commitment to the military and defense industry may be a burden inconsistent with maintaining a nation's competitive position in the global marketplace. This study is designed to address the economic competitiveness of the U.S., Germany, and Japan and their leadership position in world markets.