Bad Idea: Divest to Invest
As DoD pushes to divest legacy platforms, it must consider whether existing forces are capable of meeting operational demands without straining personnel and platforms. If not, the mission set may need to change.
Topic: Forces
Read the most recent CSIS research on U.S. military force structure.
Covid-19 Response Update: November 20-December 7
A roundup of the recent developments in the military’s response to Covid-19 by the CSIS International Security Program.
Bad Idea: Wishing Away Global Commitments
The forthcoming National Defense Strategy will likely call for reductions in day-to-day deployments to focus on China. But if the administration cannot specify the necessary tradeoffs, it must build the force necessary for continued global engagement.
Bad Idea: Relying on “Integrated Deterrence” Instead of Building Sufficient U.S. Military Power
As the Biden administration implements “integrated deterrence,” Thomas Spoehr warns the application of non-military tools, such as economic sanctions and diplomatic condemnation, should not replace or diminish the need to build sufficient military power.
Need a Role Model for Shared Cyber Incident Response? Look to the Coast Guard
A cyber attack on a major U.S. port in August was thwarted by the port’s use of threat detection software and quick coordination with a capable, trusted public-sector responder: the U.S. Coast Guard. Close coordination and information sharing between industry and the Coast Guard prevented a potential disaster.
U.S. Military Forces in FY 2022: Air Force
The Air Force continues developing and procuring next-generation aircraft to meet the demands of great power conflict. While fielding new aircraft has slowed the increase in fleet age, the Air Force is not buying enough new aircraft to sustain current force levels.
Covid-19 Response Update: October 14-November 19
A roundup of the recent developments in the military’s response to Covid-19 by the CSIS International Security Program.
U.S. Military Forces in FY 2022: Marine Corps
The Marine Corps continues a major restructuring to develop capabilities for great power conflict in the Pacific by cutting units and personnel. The restructuring remains controversial and a work in progress.
U.S. Military Forces in FY 2022: Navy
The Biden administration’s emerging fleet plan incorporates smaller ships and large numbers of unmanned systems, as proposed by many strategists, but high costs, production limitations, and congressional opposition may prevent full implementation.
U.S. Military Forces in FY 2022: Army
Despite its budget having declined by $3.6 billion, the U.S. Army’s force structure remains steady as a result of cuts to modernization and readiness. In the long term, the Army’s force structure is at risk because of the strategic focus on China, perceived as primarily an air and naval theater.