In an analysis grounded in the observation that although Iranian power projection is marked by strengths, it also has serious liabilities and limitations, this report surveys the nature of both in four critical areas and offers a new U.S. policy paradigm that seeks to manage the challenges Iran presents through the exploitation of regional barriers to its power and sources of caution in the regime's strategic calculus.

"Prepared for the United States Air Force." "Rand Project Air Force" "MG-781-AF"--P. [4] of cover.

Introduction: understanding the Iranian challenge -- Assertiveness and caution in Iranian strategic culture -- Asymmetric ambition and conventional reality: Iran's evolving defense strategy, doctrine, and capabilities -- Iran and its non-state partners: assessing linkages and control -- Arab perceptions of the Iranian threat -- Conclusion: U.S. strategy and the Islamic Republic.