Ideas
‘Open Letter’ to Obama on Afghanistan Omits Key Questions
Staying the course won’t work if we don’t know where we’re going.
Ideas
Put the X-47B Back to Work — As a Tanker
Before the US Navy spends another billion dollars on prototype UAVs, it should wring more lessons from its existing fleet.
Ideas
Gray Zone: Why We’re Losing the New Era of National Security
If the U.S.-led status quo is not be to further eroded, the White House and Pentagon must jumpstart efforts to recognize and counter hybrid techniques.
Ideas
It’s Time to Declare Our Independence from Russian Rockets
Attention, Congress: there are a range of alternatives to the RD-180, none of which run through Moscow.
Ideas
Revamp the International Officer Training Program Before Inviting Nations Like Myanmar
For 40 years, the U.S. program has helped strengthen ties with partner nations and their rising military stars. More can be done.
Ideas
Afghanistan Needs a Settlement, Not Another Troop-Withdrawal Deadline
The U.S. objective in Afghanistan is not to leave; it is to end the war on terms Americans and Afghans can live with.
Ideas
No More Cyber Maginot Lines: We Need to Hunt Down Hackers Before They Strike
This is the next frontier of cybersecurity.
Ideas
With UN Decision Looming, China, US Need Real Talks on South China Sea
China is expected to raise tensions this month if a Law of the Seas tribunal rules against their claims in the South China Sea. Time to start talking.
Ideas
What’s Missing as NATO Rearms Its Eastern Flank? Diplomacy
An arms buildup alone won’t keep the Baltics safe, but a parallel Cold War-style diplomatic track just might.
Policy
A Judge Shouldn’t Force Congress to Debate War
Feckless lawmakers are certainly ducking one of their most solemn duties. But a soldier’s lawsuit won't fix things.
Ideas
The B-21 Bomber Should Be Unmanned on Day 1
So far, U.S. Air Force leaders have said only that it will eventually be able to fly without crew.
Ideas
Don’t Privatize the Veterans Health Administration
The healthcare industry wants to take over a system that – for all its problems – still outperforms the private sector.
Threats
Don’t Give Up on the African Union Mission Yet
Somalia's most effective institution and its biggest driver of stability, AMISOM is the only force that can counter al-Shabab and hold territory.
Ideas
Stop Saying We're Dropping 'Cyber Bombs' On ISIS
It is better to see cyber operations for what they are: changing spreadsheets, intercepting email, jamming comms, and a lot of deception.
Ideas
The Nuclear Football Goes to Japan
Obama will have the power of 22,000 Hiroshimas in the suitcase his aide carries with him. He still has time to change.
Ideas
The Latest Taliban Leader’s Death Changes What, Exactly?
Ask three people what they make of Mullah Mansoor’s death by drone and you’ll get three answers, none offering a swift end to the war.
Ideas
The Old Arguments About US Nukes in Europe Aren’t Working. Here’s A New Approach.
Stressing the humanitarian dimensions of the debate over tactical nukes may break a long stalemate.
Ideas
Naysayers Are Learning the Wrong Lessons About the Littoral Combat Ship
The LCS is bringing needed numbers — and following the paths of very successful ship classes.
Ideas
The Myth of American Disengagement
For too many in the foreign policy debate, "engagement" is code for unilateral military intervention. Here's a more honest way to measure Obama's record.
Ideas