What were the consequences of the arms race for both superpowers?

The arms race led to economic strain, heightened tensions, and technological advancements for both the USA and the USSR.

The arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War had significant consequences for both superpowers. Economically, both nations invested vast sums of money into developing and maintaining their nuclear arsenals and other military technologies. This expenditure placed a considerable strain on their economies. For the USA, the arms race contributed to a massive defence budget, which some argue diverted funds from social programmes and infrastructure. For the USSR, the economic burden was even more severe, contributing to the eventual collapse of the Soviet economy in the late 1980s.

Politically, the arms race heightened tensions between the two superpowers, leading to a state of constant fear and suspicion. The development of increasingly powerful nuclear weapons and delivery systems, such as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), meant that both nations were capable of inflicting catastrophic damage on each other. This mutual capability for destruction led to the doctrine of Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD), which, while preventing direct conflict, created a pervasive atmosphere of anxiety and mistrust.

On the technological front, the arms race spurred significant advancements. Both the USA and the USSR made rapid progress in missile technology, nuclear physics, and even space exploration. The competition to achieve superiority in these areas led to milestones such as the USA's Apollo moon landings and the USSR's launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik. These technological advancements had far-reaching implications, influencing civilian industries and leading to innovations that benefited society in various ways.

In summary, the arms race had profound economic, political, and technological impacts on both the USA and the USSR, shaping the course of the Cold War and leaving a lasting legacy on global affairs.