The USA and USSR

The USA and USSR

1. When Gorbachev became leader of Russia in 1985, it was clear that the USA was in a much stronger position than the USSR.

2. 1986

3. USA Strengths

   • Booming economy
   • Excellent computer technology
   • Excellent space technology
   • Highly equipped conventional military forces
   • NATO allies
   • International reputation as ‘leaders of the free world’

4. USSR Strengths

   • Warsaw Pact allies
   • Greater number of nuclear missiles than the USA

5. USA Weakness

   • Fewer nuclear missiles

6. USSR Weakness

   • Failing economy
   • Old-fashioned technology
   • committed to an expensive war in Afghan
   • Reputation ruined by Chernobyl