Read featured commentary from CSIS experts on the latest developments in defense and national security.
A presidential transition usually means a new direction for NASA. But in this case, the Biden administration should prioritize two key Trump-era initiatives — the Artemis Program and LEO commercialization — given their importance to the future of space exploration and development.
Justifying ongoing U.S. military occupations by warning that China or Russia will stand to benefit from the ensuing power vacuum is illogical. There are a number of reasons to think that adversaries will struggle to gain meaningful influence following a U.S. withdrawal.
Despite criticism, the creation of the Space Force as an independent service was a timely, strategically-important decision. It would be a bad idea to roll it back into the Air Force.
Calls to revive the Cold War-era United States Information Agency (USIA) are rooted more in the lack of cohesive strategy for global public diplomacy than in any real suitability of the agency for the modern era. Instead, the government should deploy existing tools and resources to engage global publics and advance U.S. interests.
Since the launch of Sputnik during the Cold War, the United States has prioritized STEM education in an effort to grow and maintain a competitive edge — often at the expense of civic education. However, U.S. national security also depends on Americans’ understanding of and commitment to our democratic institutions.
Congress and DoD both agree that the U.S. needs a space-based system of missile tracking sensors. But disagreement over which agency should oversee its development threatens to undercut the project.
Using “the Pentagon” or “the White House” as if they were actors in the political process risks misleading readers from what is going on.
Defense budgeting discussions frequently feature all-or-nothing thinking. But considering the marginal costs and benefits of additional spending can lead to better spending decisions.
The Pentagon needs strong leadership. Qualified candidates should not be excluded for their defense industry ties — especially as history has shown these individuals lead with integrity and skill.
Creating a new authority to designate domestic terrorist groups would be a mistake. There are, however, mechanisms under existing law that could be better utilized to combat domestic terror.