DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS - Gain or Loss Recognized in Income on Non-qualifying Strategies (Detail) (Non-qualifying strategies, USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) Recognized within Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)	$ 98	$ (224)	$ 111	$ (289)
Interest rate swaps
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) Recognized within Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)	7	(78)	4	(79)
Foreign currency swaps
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) Recognized within Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)	66	(72)	59	(98)
Credit default swaps
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain (Loss) Recognized within Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses)	$ 25	$ (74)	$ 48	$ (112)