Alternative Defense Strategies In A Cost Capped Environment

Alternative Defense Strategies in a Cost-Capped Environment

Alternative Defense Strategies in a Cost-Capped Environment

This study identifies five alternative strategies and, using CSIS's Force Cost Calculator, builds a cost-capped force structure, modernization program, and readiness profile for each strategy. It then stress-tests each strategy against four sets of simultaneous conflict scenarios, which the authors devised. The study explores potential ways to mitigate the fiscal pressure forcing these strategic tradeoffs. It concludes by making recommendations for the FY 2017 defense budget and the next Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR).

Defense Modernization Plans through the 2020s

This report details the plans for major U.S. Defense Department acquisition programs over the next 15 years and explores the complicating factors that may make the situation more problematic for policymakers. It analyzes a range of options to mitigate the bow wave, including increasing the budget, cutting additional force structure, and making trades among major acquisition programs. The report finds that while none of the choices available are easy, it provides an opportunity for the new administration taking office in 2017 to better align modernization plans with defense strategy.