The principal research activity for this cluster is to catalogue how armies are responding to the challenge of HIV/AIDS. The overall research approach is to compile information on programmes and policies with respect to HIV/AIDS across a large number of armies, principally in Africa but also in Central America and South- East Asia. The research in this thematic cluster is framed by an analysis of the drivers of HIV/AIDS prevalence and the determinants of effective prevention and testing policy. It builds upon the existing evidence base for patterns and levels of HIV prevalence in national armed forces. Relevant research on HIV/AIDS and the military in Russia will also be conducted by Thematic cluster 3. The overall objective of this cluster is to demonstrate that many armies have succeeded in responding effectively to the threat posed by HIV/AIDS but substantial improvements are possible.