An "arms race" refers to a competition between nations or groups to develop and accumulate more weapons and military technology than each other. This often leads to increased tensions and the potential for conflict, as each side seeks to outdo the other in terms of military capability. Historically, arms races have occurred during significant periods, such as the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union, where both superpowers invested heavily in nuclear weapons. The goal is often to deter aggression by showcasing military strength, but it can also escalate into dangerous confrontations.