Nonlinear economic growth dynamics in the context of a military arms race

Abstract

In the present contribution, we propose and analyze a dynamical economic growth model for two rival countries that engage an arms race. Under natural assumptions, we prove that global solutions exist and discuss their asymptotic long-time behavior. The results of our stability analysis support the recurring hypothesis in Cold War political science that engaging in an arms race with a technologically superior and hence faster growing adversary has damaging economic consequences. Numerical findings illustrate and support our claims.