Content Type: Analysis

Read the most recent analysis from CSIS experts on defense-related issues.

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Revising the Strategy Formulation Process and Related Documents

There is widespread dissatisfaction with the existing strategy formulation process and resulting documents because of their perceived lack of prioritization.

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Analysis / Reform

Lengthening Tenure of the Chairman and Vice Chairman

Both the House and Senate bills contain provisions to lengthen the term of service for the CJCS from two years to four.

Photo courtesy of the US Army: https://www.army.mil/article/126949/Force_Development_director__Army_values_worthy_of_daily_discussion

Analysis / Budget

What Has the Budget Control Act of 2011 Meant for Defense?

Watch our video on the Budget Control Act (BCA) of 2011 discuss the emergence of the BCA, its impact on defense, and the practicalities of the BCA on defense budgeting. Additionally, the resource includes critical questions about the BCA.

Photo courtesy of the Department of Defense: https://www.flickr.com/photos/thejointstaff/22162463861/

Analysis / Reform

Adding Operational Authorities for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

The House and the Senate National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) bills have several provisions seeking to strengthen the role of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

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Analysis / Reform

Reducing the Number of Guard/Reserve General/Flag Officers by 25 Percent

The loss of reserve three-star positions will likely be seen as a serious loss of influence in the reserve community.

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Analysis / Reform

Reforming Security Cooperation

Improving the efficiency, oversight, and professionalism of the security cooperation enterprise will help prove to Americans that these investments are worth the price.

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Analysis / Reform

Smart Conditions

This report assesses the challenges to U.S. security assistance, reviews a few case studies, and provides guidelines for using conditionality on security assistance.

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Analysis / Forces, Strategy

Alternative Defense Strategies in a Cost-Capped Environment

This study reviews strategy and forces for the Department of Defense under constrained resources. It also provides recommendations for the FY 2017 defense budget and the next Quadrennial Defense Review.

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Analysis / Acquisition, Reform

Establish Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering

The administration, Senate, and House all agree that ensuring U.S. technological superiority is a major priority and that some change to DoD’s current organization would likely be beneficial in achieving this objective.