Ideas
The US-UK Alliance Has Seen Better Days
As President Trump arrives in Britain, the two partners are divided on how to deal with Iran, Huawei, and even Brexit.
Policy
Shanahan ‘Not Planning’ USS McCain Investigation, But Still Reviewing Facts
“There’s no restriction on how people can send email,” the acting defense secretary said.
Ideas
Time to Abandon Denuclearization?
An unwavering faith in the gospel of denuclearization is not supported by its track record, and some of the fears of moving toward a new policy are overblown.
Ideas
Border Disorder: Trump Can’t Figure Out How to Keep His Biggest Promise
The president insisted that preventing illegal immigration would be simple and easy. Through a series of increasingly desperate attempts, he’s discovering that isn’t true.
Ideas
Two Decades of War Have Eroded the Morale of America’s Troops
After nearly 17 years of war, service members have seen plenty of patriotic displays but little public debate about why they’re fighting.
Threats
Shanahan: ‘We’re Not Going To Ignore Chinese Behavior’
The speech at the Shangri-La conference was closely watched amid rising U.S.-China tensions over trade and security.
Business
Great Power Competition Spurs Arms Purchases By Smaller Asian Countries
From sub-hunting planes to fighter jets, Asian nations are arming themselves in response to China’s buildup.
Threats
News from Shangri-La 2019: Shanahan's test; DOD's INDOPAC report; UAE's tanker request
A special edition of D Brief brings news and notes from the 2019 IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.
Science & Tech
NSA Deflects Blame for Baltimore Ransomware Attack
An agency's policy advisor says city officials had more than two years to patch computers against the attack.
Ideas
Naval Task Groups Are Proliferating in the Indo-Pacific
France’s aircraft carrier is back in the region, leading a small flotilla, and it’s not alone.
Policy
Still 'Acting' Shanahan Faces Test With China Face-off and USS McCain Scandal
Raising the stakes for the would-be SecDef, the White House has not yet sent formal nomination paperwork to the Senate.
Ideas
Putin Drops Hints about Upcoming National AI Strategy
Russian leader calls for “technological sovereignty” and, somewhat surprisingly, for protecting IP and civil rights.
Ideas
A Stain on the Honor of the Navy
In acceding to a White House request to cover the name of the USS John S. McCain, officers and officials revealed a rot within the service.
Defense Systems
Army acquisition head looks at AI to upgrade logistics
Army acquisition head Bruce Jette is looking to leverage modernization efforts including AI and automation to improve logistics.
Ideas