In its final report, the independent, bipartisan Commission concludes that the United States urgently requires “substantial and wide-ranging change” to its defense and national security structure. Our current systems are outdated, bureaucratic, and overly political, preventing us from responding with the necessary urgency to the gravest threats our nation has faced since 1945. These include an emerging axis of authoritarianism opposed to U.S. interests and with it the growing potential for major war. The Commission calls for a comprehensive strategy incorporating all elements of national power and a Multiple Theater Force Construct to shape the capabilities needed to deter and defeat threats to U.S. security.
Five CSBA experts significantly contributed to the efforts of the Commission on the National Defense Strategy for the United States. CSBA Counselor Ambassador Eric Edelman served as Vice Chair of the Commission. Commissioners included CSBA President Thomas G. Mahnken, CSBA Board Member GEN Jack Keane (USA, Ret.), and CSBA Council Member Roger Zakheim. CSBA Senior Fellow and Director of Defense Budget Studies Dr. Travis Sharp served as a key member of the Commission’s staff.
We invite you to explore a selection of related news coverage.
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A new review finds the Pentagon isn’t ready to wage war in multiple theaters at once.
‘Not Prepared’: Congressional Panel Calls for Huge Defense Buildup
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America’s odds of fighting a major war are the highest in 80 years, and its military isn’t prepared for one.
Pentagon Has ‘Insufficient’ Forces ‘Inadequate’ to Face China, Russia
Lee Ferran
July 29, 2024 | Breaking Defense
Boldest among the report's recommendations is a proposal for what it calls a new "Multiple Theater Force Construct" to fix the current, "out-of-date" version.
Not Prepared for Major War
Chris Gordon
July 29, 2024 | Air and Space Forces Magazine
The Pentagon's National Defense Strategy fails to fully recognize China’s growing military might, Russia’s persistent threat, risks from Iran and other rogue states—and the increasing convergence of all three.
DoD Needs New Force Construct to Fight Multiple Wars
Anastasia Obis
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A congressionally mandated commission found that the force-sizing construct in the 2022 National Defense Strategy is "inadequate."
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The United States would need to increase its defense spending to Cold War-era levels to challenge threats around the world as China, Russia, North Korea and Iran foster an alliance that could lead to global war.
Commission Issues Dire Warning about Threats Facing U.S.
August 2, 2024 | Association of the U.S. Army
“Significant and urgent action” is needed to prepare the United States for the national security threats it’s facing today.
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