anyone remember the title of this book?

[mandybat]

I read a book about 25 years ago that I am now trying to track down. I have no idea of the title or author however I do remember that countries had to "book" a desert to have their battles in to eliminate collateral damage (civilian losses) hence many wars were sorted out diplomatically due to the long waiting list.
Sorry the details are a bit vague but I'm hoping to jog someones memory!
Thanks