Ideas
The National Security Strategy Commits the US to a Lonelier and Less Generous Course
As previewed by H.R. McMaster, the new NSS contrasts strikingly to the visions of other recent presidents.
Ideas
The Pentagon’s Next Terrorism Threat (and Solution): Kids
As ISIS-type extremism spreads, counterterrorism commanders are right to be concerned with the youth population bulge. Here’s how to turn a threat into a resource.
Defense Systems
Modernization in Defense
The journey is one everyone agrees is needed, but the best path and the challenges that presents are not only technology based.
Policy
Allies Are Key, Says Trump’s National Security Strategy
The document, to be unveiled next week, will be the latest administration policy position that looks beyond “America first.”
Threats
In Eastern Ukraine, One Misplaced Artillery Shell Could Cause a ‘Chernobyl-Scale’ Disaster
Chemical plants in and around the combat zone are at risk, say Ukrainian officials and a new UN report
Defense Systems
GAO: Security clearance problems far from fixed
A GAO audit found that many federal agencies have yet to implement years-old recommendations to reform and speed up their security clearance processes.
Threats
The Contractor that Hired Russian Coders for a Pentagon Project Has Struck a Deal with Prosecutors
The deal ends a criminal investigation and imposes restrictions and audits on Netcracker Technology.
Defense Systems
Army explores synthetic squad-training environment
The Squad immersive Virtual Trainer would give small units realistic training for shooting, movement, communications, care of wounded and defensive capabilities in a variety of realistic terrains.
Defense Systems
White House unhappy with NDAA's cyber strategy demand
President Trump indicates he's opposed to a congressional demand for a cybersecurity strategy in the 2018 defense bill.
Ideas
Improving on the Iran Deal
Today is the nominal deadline for Congress to decide what it intends to do — and then there’s Europe to woo.
Threats
Global Conflicts to Watch in 2018
The U.S. is now the most unpredictable actor in the world today.
Ideas
An Afghan Army Aviator Describes Iran’s Threats — and How to Meet Them
Beyond its support for the Taliban, Tehran is exploiting refugee flows and cultural ties between the countries.
Ideas
Did the Saudis Shoot Down a Houthi Missile on Nov. 4? It Doesn’t Much Matter
The Patriot has proven itself with dozens of successful intercepts. Moreover, it’s just one part of a solid anti-missile defense strategy.
Threats
China May Be Preparing Refugee Sites in Case of a Korean War
A leaked document from a Chinese telecommunications company hints that Beijing is anticipating an influx of war refugees.
Policy
One Chart Showing Every Military and Civilian Pay Raise Since 1984
Since 2000, military pay raises have been either higher than or equal to civilian ones.
Policy
Pentagon Unleashes 1,200 Auditors for Unprecedented Financial Review
After decades of false starts, the Defense Department aims to issue its first audit report in November 2018.
Science & Tech