In an era of fiscal austerity, the investment decisions the U.S. military services make in the coming years must give others pause as they consider military competition or conflict with the United States. For the Air Force, this means preserving a highly credible capability to strike any targets anywhere on the globe while recapitalizing its aging inventory of combat aircraft.
CSBA Analysis
Can the Aging U.S. Air Force Modernize?
September 26, 2012 • By Barry Watts and James G. Roche • Analysis
U.S. Defense and the 2012 Presidential Election
September 10, 2012 • By Todd Harrison • Analysis
Following the Republican and Democratic national conventions, the fall electoral season kicks into high gear. Among the many issues being debated are those focused on U.S. defense: How would the…
How Big Should the Defense Budget Be?
September 9, 2012 • By Todd Harrison • Analysis
Use reasoned judgment, not artificial measures. Using a percentage of G.D.P. or past spending levels would set the budget with little regard for what is needed or what we can afford.
Economist Debate: China’s Military
May 4, 2012 • By Andrew F. Krepinevich • Analysis
The weight of evidence leads to the conclusion that China’s military expansion is undermining the regional stability that has produced an era of peace and unparalleled prosperity. China’s actions speak far louder than its words.
The Laser Future Of U.S. Missile Defense
May 2, 2012 • By Mark Gunzinger and Andrew F. Krepinevich • Analysis
Russia and China recognize the low-cost efficiency of lasers. Does the Pentagon? For 20 years, from the first Gulf War to the recent bombardment of Libya, the U.S. military has…