Luttwak defines a coup d'état as a seizure of power within the existing system of government, carried out by a small group using the threat or actual use of force. Key characteristics include:

1. Speed: Coups are typically executed quickly, often within hours or days.
2. Limited violence: Unlike revolutions, coups aim to minimize violence and disruption.
3. Targeted action: Focuses on seizing key centers of power rather than mobilizing masses.
4. Preserving state structure: Aims to take control of existing government apparatus, not destroy it.
5. Insider nature: Often carried out by those already within the power structure.
6. Secrecy in planning: Requires careful planning and secrecy before execution.

This distinguishes coups from revolutions (which involve mass mobilization and aim to change the system), civil wars (prolonged conflicts), or peaceful transitions of power through elections or constitutional means.

Luttwak identifies several prerequisites that make a country vulnerable to coups:

1. Political independence: The country must have sovereign control over its affairs.
2. Centralization of power: A centralized government makes it easier to seize control by capturing key institutions.
3. Poverty and social inequality: These factors can create discontent and weaken regime legitimacy.
4. Political instability: A history of coups or unstable governments increases vulnerability.
5. "Coup culture": Some countries develop a political culture where coups are seen as a normal means of power transition.
6. Weak civil society: Lack of strong, independent institutions outside government control.
7. Military influence: A politically influential military increases coup risk.
8. Economic dependence: Reliance on a single resource or industry can create economic vulnerabilities.
9. Geographic factors: Small countries or those with power concentrated in a single city are more susceptible.
10. International context: Lack of strong international opposition to coups.

Luttwak emphasizes that the presence of these factors doesn't guarantee a coup will occur, but increases the likelihood of success if attempted.

Luttwak outlines several key stages in the execution of a coup d'état:

1. Planning and Preparation:
   • Identifying key targets and vulnerabilities
   • Recruiting co-conspirators
   • Gathering intelligence
   • Developing a detailed plan
2. Infiltration:
   • Placing conspirators in key positions
   • Building a network within important institutions
3. Execution:
   • Seizing control of strategic locations (e.g., government buildings, media outlets)
   • Neutralizing potential opposition
   • Taking control of communications and transportation
4. Consolidation of Power:
   • Securing loyalty of military and security forces
   • Controlling information flow
   • Establishing legitimacy through declarations or shows of public support
5. Transition:
   • Forming a new government
   • Implementing policy changes
   • Managing international reactions

Luttwak emphasizes the importance of speed and coordination throughout these stages, noting that the success of a coup often depends on its ability to present a fait accompli before opposition can mobilize.

Luttwak emphasizes the critical role of the military in coups d'état:

1. Primary actor: Often, the military is the main orchestrator of coups due to its organized structure and access to force.
2. Internal divisions: Coups may exploit or create divisions within the military, often led by mid-ranking officers.
3. Neutrality is key: Securing the neutrality of military units not directly involved in the coup is crucial.
4. Command structure: Control of the military's command and communication systems is essential.
5. Symbolic power: Military involvement lends legitimacy and intimidation factor to the coup.
6. Post-coup governance: The military often plays a significant role in the new government following a successful coup.
7. Coup-proofing: Regimes often structure their militaries to prevent coups, which coup planners must overcome.
8. Intelligence role: Military intelligence is often crucial in planning and executing coups.
9. International dimension: The stance of foreign military allies can influence coup outcomes.
10. Technological aspect: Control of military technology and weapons systems is a key consideration.

Luttwak notes that while military involvement is common, not all coups are military-led, and the specific role of the military can vary greatly depending on the country's context and the nature of the coup.

Luttwak discusses several strategies for preventing or countering coup attempts:

1. Structural Measures:
   • Decentralization of power to make it harder to seize control
   • Creating redundancies in key government functions
   • Diversifying military leadership and rotating commands
2. Loyalty Programs:
   • Cultivating personal loyalty within the military and security forces
   • Implementing ideological indoctrination programs
3. Intelligence and Surveillance:
   • Maintaining robust internal intelligence capabilities
   • Monitoring potential dissident groups and individuals
4. Economic Policies:
   • Addressing economic grievances to reduce discontent
   • Ensuring the military is well-funded to reduce motivation for coups
5. International Alliances:
   • Cultivating international support to deter coup attempts
   • Joining international organizations that oppose unconstitutional changes of government
6. Rapid Response Plans:
   • Developing contingency plans for quickly responding to coup attempts
   • Establishing clear chains of command in crisis situations
7. Media Control:
   • Maintaining control over key media outlets to counter coup narratives
8. Constitutional Measures:
   • Implementing legal frameworks that delegitimize coups
   • Establishing clear succession procedures
9. Public Engagement:
   • Building popular support to make it harder for coups to gain legitimacy
10. Coup-Proofing the Military:
    • Creating parallel security forces to counterbalance the regular military
    • Encouraging inter-service rivalry to prevent unified action against the government

Luttwak emphasizes that while these strategies can reduce the risk of coups, no method is foolproof, and over-reliance on coup-proofing can itself lead to political instability.