Since the 1970s, Arab leaderships have been remarkably stable, particularly given the frequency of military coups in the preceding years. Although coups have become less common, the military remains a key forece in most Arab regimes; maintaining its loyalty is therefore essential if political leaders are to retain office. Regimes have used a range of methods to ensure the military's backing, from increasing non-military support by cultivating social, economic and religious groups to purging potential opponents within the armed forces, monitoring military activity and rotating commands. The need for Arab regimes to maintain political control can undermine the combat potential of their armed forces. In addition, the fact that regimes have successfully managed political-military relations in the past does not mean that they will automatically do so in the future. Regime stability cannot therefore be taken for granted.

Adelphi Paper 324.

Introduction--Ch. 1 The Stability of Arab Regimes--Ch. 2 Maintaining Power--Ch. 3 Political Control and Military Capabilities--Ch. 4 Challenges to Stability: Leadership Succession--Conclusion.