A New US Defense Strategy for a New Era

November 15, 2012

 

Facing the fiscal crisis of the US and recognizing the changing international environment, The Peter G. Peterson Foundation & Stimson convened 15 senior defense practitioners and observers in a Defense Advisory Committee.  The committee reached a consensus on the defense strategy the US should pursue in the coming years. The committee also found that the strategy could be implemented even within current budget constraints. 

The strategy rests on the comparative strengths and weaknesses of the US military. The committee captured the basis of this strategy in 10 operating principles.
 
Given the current budget crisis, such a strategy has significant implications for defense spending in the future. The committee found the strategy could be executed at four budget levels, with an acceptable level of risk even at the lowest budget level.  The committee also concentrated on the numerous efficiency reforms long proposed for how the Defense Department operates.  
 
Given the debate about both the US fiscal situation and its role in the world, this new report will serve as a fresh and widely-accepted baseline for facing these pressing issues. 

Remarks by
Peter G. Peterson
Chairman and CEO, Peter G. Peterson Foundation
 
Presentation by
Dr. Barry Blechman
Chair, Defense Advisory Committee
 
Comments by Defense Advisory Committee Members
Admiral Bill Owens, USN (Ret.)
General BB Bell, USA (Ret.) 
Ambassador Richard Burt

Moderated by
Andrea Koppel