Ideas
That 'Wasteful' Task Force? You're Not Getting the Full Story
In Afghanistan, the Pentagon’s Task Force for Business and Stability Operations fostered helpful investment — and pioneered an essential component of future missions.
Threats
From China, an Expansive and Dangerous View of Cyber Deterrence
One military researcher suggests pursuing it in ways that could prove destabilizing.
Ideas
How ISIS Appeals to Converts — and Ex-Criminals
Understanding both sides is key to figuring out how to slow recruitment.
Ideas
The Intelligence Community Must Remove Barriers to Minority Recruitment
National security demands a more diverse workforce to understand the world, but several things stand in the way.
Ideas
Drone Pilots Are Breaking the Old Definitions of Valor
Traditional notions of heroism don't always leave room for those U.S. troops engaged in high-tech, cutting edge warfare.
Science & Tech
What's Known About China's Shadowy New 'Combat' Force
On the last day of 2015, China overhauled the way its military was structured, creating a new force that's received very little attention in the foreign press.
Ideas
The Diplomat-in-Chief Hits a National Security Trifecta
If Barack Obama were a Republican, Congress would have already named an airport after him.
Ideas
In an Era of Cheap Drones, US Can’t Afford Exquisite Weapons
Various technological advances are about to make hundred-drone swarms a reality, and a nightmare for today’s top-of-the-line weapons.
Ideas
Obama Is About To Launch A New Nuclear Arms Race. There’s a Better Way.
Despite his anti-nuclear words, the president is about to cave to the nuclear arms priesthood.
Policy
GOP Candidates Try to Scare the Hell Out of America
In Thursday's debate, candidates exploited the nation’s anxieties over national security and Obama.
Ideas
Obama's Legacy: Limited Force, Limited Influence, Lingering Questions of What America Should Be
Obama’s long-view for the Middle East stands little chance of playing out as Americans — and events — cry for the U.S. to do more.
Ideas
The Right Way to Fight Boko Haram — and How the U.S. Should Help
Nigeria’s new president is wrong to separate his terrorism problem from his corruption problem.
Ideas
Meet the Air Force’s New Acquisition System
We’re creating a new way of developing, building and buying that works better for the service and the defense industry. Here’s how.
Ideas
China Is On A Collision Course with ISIS
Bejing’s ambitious plan to build links to central Asia and Europe will demand a better counter-terrorism policy.
Ideas
The Rise of Cyber Repression
When even the New York Times is open to tinkering with the First Amendment, it’s time to look at the way groups and governments are shaping our online society.
Ideas
Building Afghan Security Requires a Long-Term U.S. Commitment
Can Americans — and their next president — see past short-term campaign promises to save Afghanistan?
Ideas