The Institute for National Strategic Studies serves as a focal point for analysis of critical national security policy and defense strategy issues.
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Nov. 24, 2020
Russia’s Escalating Use of Private Military Companies in Africa
In May 2020, fourteen unmarked Russian Mig-29 and Su-24 combat aircraft appeared in the possession of Russian paramilitaries in Libya. This transfer was unprecedented. While outdated, the aircraft have air-to-air and ground-attack capabilities similar to the United States (U.S.) Air Force F-15 and A-10. Why would Moscow send this equipment to a ragtag group of former military personnel moonlighting in Libya? As the United States military refocuses its attention on strategic competition with great powers, it will need to answer not only this question, but also broader questions related to how and why Russia utilizes its proxy forces.
Nov. 12, 2020
China – Next Steps
If we are to compete successfully with China for influence in Asia and across the globe, where to begin? In short, back to basics – our alliances.
Nov. 10, 2020
Podcast: Change or Die
The successful military is the one that adapts and innovates. Dave Barno, Nora Bensahel, and Frank Hoffman join Ryan to talk about how the U.S. military changes, or fails to do so. They have two new books on the subject between them: Adaptation under Fire: How Militaries Change in Wartime, by Dave and Nora, is out now. And Mars Adapting: Military Change During War, by Frank, will be out soon.
Nov. 2, 2020
Designing Tomorrow’s Marine Corps
Dr. Frank Hoffman discusses why force design must be versatile, balanced, risk-informed, and strategy-driven as the Corps moves into an unknown future.
Oct. 29, 2020
Interview: Force Structure Perspectives: Col. T.X. Hammes (Ret) on Experimenting for Adaptation
As a part of CIMSEC’s Force Structure Perspectives Series, CIMSEC discussed the Battle Force 2045 fleet design with Col. T.X. Hammes (ret)., a Distinguished Research Fellow at the U.S.
Oct. 28, 2020
Book Review: Shields of the Republic
Brett Swaney reviews Shields of the Republic: The Triumph and Peril of America's Alliances by Dr. Mira Rapp-Hooper at the Strategy Bridge.
Oct. 26, 2020
Podcast: Double Crisis Double Feature
Colleen Wood and Jeff Mankoff break down the Kyrgyzstan and Nagorno Karabakh crises.
Oct. 1, 2020
Why Armenia and Azerbaijan Are on the Brink of War
Dr. Jeffrey Mankoff provides insights into the recent clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the dynamics that entangle the region.
How Will Russia Respond to the U.S.-China Cold War?
Dr. Jeffrey Mankoff examines the dynamics of the Russia-China entente and what this means for the competition between the United States and China.
Sept. 4, 2020
Book Review: Terror and Technology from Dynamite to Drones
T.X. Hammes reviews Power to the People: How Open Technological Innovation is Arming Tomorrow's Terrorists by Audrey Kurth Cronin at War on the Rocks.