What strategy did the Soviet Union pursue in response to U.S. military build-up under Reagan?

The strategy that the Soviet Union pursued in response to the U.S. military build-up under President Reagan was characterized by the deployment of missiles aimed at NATO. During the 1980s, as the U.S. significantly increased its defense spending and adopted a more aggressive military posture, the Soviet Union sought to counterbalance this move by enhancing its own military capabilities, particularly in Europe.

The deployment of missiles, such as the SS-20, was intended to strengthen the Soviet Union's deterrent capability against NATO forces, particularly those in Western Europe. This was a direct response to the U.S. development of the Pershing II missiles and cruise missiles, which threatened the balance of power in the region. Thus, by deploying its own missiles, the Soviet leadership aimed to maintain equality in military strength and deter potential aggression from the United States and its NATO allies.

This strategy not only escalated military tensions but also led to negotiations over arms control, as both superpowers recognized the need to manage the risks associated with their military enhancements. However, the immediate response of deploying missiles was a clear attempt to assert military strength in the face of the perceived threat from the U.S. military build-up.