Through its publications, INSS aims to provide expert insights, cutting-edge research, and innovative solutions that contribute to shaping the national security discourse and preparing the next generation of leaders in the field.
March 31, 2026
Defining the Palette of Biodeterrence: Appreciating a Broader Toolkit
As noted in the recently released Biodeterrence Framework, biological weapons present a uniquely complex challenge to traditional models of deterrence, in that their development can be concealed within ostensibly legitimate scientific enterprise, their effects may be delayed or ambiguous, and their attribution can often be difficult, particularly given the increasingly broadened scope of biothreat possibilities.
March 17, 2026
Biodeterrence in an Era of Convergent Threats
A recent report reveals that the Peoples’ Republic of China (PRC) has increasing focus upon and fiscal dedication to biosciences and biotechnology, with an estimated economic commitment of 5-8% of its total national research and development spending, amounting to approximately $32 billion in comparable USD in annual funding.
March 11, 2026
Precision in Words, Precision in Warfare: Terminology and Control in Military Discourse on Unmanned Systems
Unmanned vehicular systems (UVS) spanning aerial, maritime, terrestrial, and sub-surface domains have become integral to intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), logistics, strike operations, and electronic warfare. Yet despite the increasing ubiquity and sophistication of these technologies, discourse surrounding their capabilities can be undermined by imprecise terminology that conflates the terms automatic, remote, and autonomous in policy, technical, operational, strategic and policy briefings and planning.
March 4, 2026
Neuromodulating Mammals for Military Operations: Ethical Responsibility and Governance in Security Domains
Research into consideration and possible utility of employing marine mammals in military support operations is nothing new.
Feb. 24, 2026
Laser-focusing Defense Capabilities
Contemporary warfighting is undergoing rapid and profound transformation. As noted in prior analyses of disruptive technologies and future warfare, the convergence of precision guidance, hypersonic kinematics, distributed sensors, and iteratively autonomous machine systems has altered the character of conflict in both the tempo and geometry of engagement(s).
Feb. 17, 2026
The Recent Rash of Biotechnology Risks: A Call to Fortify Force Capability
The tools of modern biology such as state-of-the-art gene editing, modular DNA assembly, cell-free systems, benchtop automation, and AI-enabled formulation have distributed bioweapon capability beyond the skillcraft of traditional state laboratories. Although specialized methods and equipment are required for bioagent manufacture, the relative ease of acquiring and using these means is such that more actors can gain access to such agents and can do so without the need for bespoke facilities.
Feb. 10, 2026
Decision-Based Artificial Intelligence and the Strategic Reordering of Military Power
The public acknowledgement of the increasing use of decision-based artificial intelligence (AI) in U.S. defense provides a backdrop to a structural reordering of how military missions will be generated, exercised, and contested.
Feb. 4, 2026
Quantum Technologies, Part Two: Recognizing Risks and Threats to National Security and Defense
Quantum science and technologies, while nascent, are being leveraged within and across a variety of military applications to fortify extant capabilities, and forge others anew, an example of which being the newly announced Quantum and Battlefield Information Dominance (Q-BID) Critical Technology Area.
Jan. 27, 2026
Quantum Technologies: Focusing a Bit Upon Realities
Quantum technologies are often discussed in terms of being “revolutionary.” In the long term, this may likely be true, but at present, at least in military contexts, perhaps a more useful framing is to ask: in what domains and ways do quantum capabilities demonstrably outperform contemporary classical approaches; where are such technologies still insufficiently mature in readiness and operational feasibility; and what effects do such technologies exert on force design, intelligence tradecraft, and risks to national security?
Jan. 20, 2026
Artificial Intelligence and a Reconfiguration of Military Power
Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering Emil Michael has emphasized that the DoW has historically under-deployed artificial intelligence (AI) and that the current moment demands rapid, enterprise-wide integration of AI capabilities across the DoW workforce to better support both efficiency and warfighting functions.