Search

Begin New Search Publishing Institution Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University Publication Year within 10 Years

1. Technology and National Security: The United States at a Critical Crossroads

Author:
James Kadtke and John Wharton
Publication Date:
03-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University
Abstract:
Rapid globalization of science and technology (S&T) capacity presents a serious and long-term risk to the military and economic security of the United States. To maintain U.S. preeminence, our domestic science and technology enterprise requires a new paradigm to make it more agile, synchronized, and globally engaged. U.S. technological competitiveness depends not only on research but also on legal, economic, regulatory, ethical, moral, and social frameworks, and therefore requires the vision and cooperation of our political, corporate, and civil society leadership. Re-organizing our domestic S&T enterprise will be a complex task, but recommendations presented in this paper could be first steps on the path to maintaining our future technological security.
Topic:
Defense Policy and International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

2. Low-Cost Access to Space: Military Opportunities and Challenges

Author:
Philip Stockdale, Scott Aughenbaugh, and Nickolas J. Boensch
Publication Date:
02-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University
Abstract:
In support of the Air University “Fast Space” study, the National Defense University collaborated with Johns Hopkins University, eight think tanks, and subject matter experts to analyze the utility of ultra-low-cost access to space (ULCATS) for the U.S. military. Contributors identified disruptors that could achieve ULCATS and Fast Space as well as space architectures and capabilities that could reduce the cost of access to space. They also offered recommendations for legal, policy, regulatory, authority, and oversight adjustments that could facilitate reductions.
Topic:
Defense Policy
Political Geography:
Global Focus

3. The Pentagon’s Pivot: How Lead Users Are Transforming Defense Product Development

Author:
Adam Jay Harrison
Publication Date:
02-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University
Abstract:
Historically, the Department of Defense (DOD) has relied on strategic forecasting to determine specifications for new military products. These specifications are codified in formal product requirements that drive new product development (NPD). The rapid rate of technology change combined with increasing uncertainty in the global security environment challenges the ability of DOD to make accurate longterm predictions about future military product needs. To improve the efficacy of capability development, many DOD agencies and the Defense Industrial Base are exploring NPD strategies based on the insights of lead users with direct exposure to emerging military-technology problems. This paper details emerging approaches to military NPD that incorporate lead users; that is, practitioners who experience and proactively solve needs ahead of the market.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

4. Developing an Innovation- Based Ecosystem at the U.S. Department of Defense: Challenges and Opportunities

Author:
Adam Jay Harrison, Bharat Rao, and Bala Mulloth
Publication Date:
02-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University
Abstract:
The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) is looking at new ways to spur entrepreneurship and innovation among its stakeholders and related constituencies.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

5. China’s Future SSBN Command and Control Structure

Author:
David C. Logan
Publication Date:
05-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University
Abstract:
China is developing its first credible sea-based nuclear forces. This emergent nuclear ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) force will pose unique challenges to a country that has favored tightly centralized control over its nuclear deterrent. The choices China makes about SSBN command and control will have important implications for strategic stability. Despite claims that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Rocket Force will be responsible for all Chinese nuclear forces, Chinese SSBNs currently appear to be under the control of the PLA Navy. However, China may choose to revise its command and control structures as its SSBNs begin armed deterrent patrols. There are three broad command and control models, allocating varying degrees of authority to the PLA Navy or the Rocket Force.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

6. Cross-Functional Teams in Defense Reform: Help or Hindrance?

Author:
Christopher J. Lamb
Publication Date:
05-2016
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University
Abstract:
There is strong bipartisan support for Section 941 of the Senate’s version of the National Defense Authorization Act for 2017, which requires the Pentagon to use cross-functional teams (CFTs). CFTs are a popular organizational construct with a reputation for delivering better and faster solutions for complex and rapidly evolving problems. The Department of Defense reaction to the bill has been strongly negative. Senior officials argue that Section 941 would “undermine the authority of the Secretary, add bureaucracy, and confuse lines of responsibility.” The Senate’s and Pentagon’s diametrically opposed positions on the value of CFTs can be partially reconciled with a better understanding of what CFTs are, how cross-functional groups have performed to date in the Pentagon, and their prerequisites for success. This paper argues there is strong evidence that CFTs could provide impressive benefits if the teams were conceived and employed correctly.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

7. Full Text Issue

Author:
Michael Miklaucic
Publication Date:
04-2015
Content Type:
Journal Article
Journal:
PRISM
Institution:
Institute for National Strategic Studies (INSS), National Defense University
Abstract:
For centuries Africa has provided the stuff of dreams for explorers, adventurers, conquerors, colonizers, soldiers, plunderers, and state-builders. It has also been the backdrop for the nightmares of slavery, famine, war, genocide, and other tragedies. Africa is at once a geo-graphical illusion and a potent political symbol. Its emergence and recent impressive economic growth have altered the geo-strategic calculations of all the global powers. With its abundant natural and human resources generating increasing political and economic capital, Africa's importance on the global stage will only continue to grow. However this growth will be conditioned by how African states individually and collectively respond to the myriad challenges and opportunities facing the continent.
Political Geography:
Africa