Washington, DC, May 26, 2020 – The Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments (CSBA), a premier institution for understanding the future of international competition and conflict, today announced the appointment of Dr. Chris Bassler as a Senior Fellow, effective immediately. Chris joins CSBA following an exceptionally distinguished career in government, and he will contribute to the organization’s research on joint aerospace capabilities, maritime operating concepts, and overall U.S. military strategy.
According to Dr. Thomas G. Mahnken, President and CEO of CSBA, “American strategic innovation depends on thought leaders with a mastery of emerging technologies, a deep understanding of joint warfighting, and sound judgments about defense resources. With more than 60 published scientific papers and technical reports, two U.S. Patents, and numerous highly decorated positions across the Department of Defense, Chris embodies these key traits. We are delighted to add him to our dynamic and growing team of national security professionals.”
Dr. Bassler previously served as the Chief Strategy Officer for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office. He also was Deputy Director of the Office of the Senior National Representative in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Directorate for Innovation, Technology Requirements, Test & Evaluation. He has held numerous senior positions within the U.S. Navy, including the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and the Naval Surface Warfare Center. He has also served as U.S. representative on several forums in NATO.
Dr. Bassler holds a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, and M.S. and B.S. degrees in Ocean and Aerospace Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; a M.A. in Security Policy Studies and a Graduate Certificate in Asian Studies from the George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs; and a Graduate Certificate in Systems Analysis from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School.
The Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments (CSBA) is an independent, nonpartisan policy research institute established to promote innovative thinking and debate about national security strategy and investment options. CSBA’s assessments focus on key questions related to existing and emerging threats to U.S. national security, and its mission is to enable policymakers to make informed decisions on matters of strategy, security policy, and resource allocation.
Media Contact: William Bodie, 202-719-1358