http://www.rusi.org/ web@rusi.org en-us Copyright 2013 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A517E620088BA7/ A dedicated introduction to the RUSI Journal series 'Transnational Organised Crime and Security', with Guest Editor Frank G Madsen of the University of Cambridge (Free Access) 2013-04-29 13:05:23 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A517E5CD811E64/ France’s foreign-policy record on the Arab upheavals has been mixed, yet Franҫois Hollande’s presidency shows a stepchange in the French approach to unrest in the region 2013-04-29 12:43:29 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A517E5941E6832/ Countries affected by conflict can provide fertile ground for criminal organisations: there are multiple factors at play, and countering them demands co-ordinated and informed response strategies 2013-04-29 12:28:07 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A517E58A8DDA58/ Transnational organised crime is a security threat, and hence a concern for both defence and law-enforcement actors (Free Access) 2013-04-29 12:25:36 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C51508EA96BFC8/ The Obama Administration has announced a shift in emphasis for missile defence capabilities away from Europe to the US mainland. While this could help allay Russian concerns about the NATO system, Moscow's leaders may require more confidence-building measures. 2013-03-25 17:56:15 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C51506B24A254C/ UK defence spending was further squeezed in the 2013 Budget announcement. It is likely to face additional cuts for 2015/16 in the 2015 Spending Review. The defence budget for subsequent years may depend on how the 2015 Spending Review shares the burden of future austerity between expenditure cuts and tax rises. 2013-03-25 15:24:01 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A51309267B8B54/ From 2016, women will be allowed to serve in ground-combat roles in the US armed forces. A comparative analysis of Western armed forces provides an insight into the actual impact on unit cohesion (Free access) 2013-03-01 11:38:17 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N512DDC34B68AA/ Cuts to future Ministry of Defence (MoD) budgets are likely after the Treasury's latest Autumn Statement announced reductions in defence spending for 2013/14 and 2014/15, over and above those planned in the 2010 Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR), warns the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2013-02-27 10:17:21 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C5124F3DE5B093/ For nearly a year US political leaders have been fighting over the federal budget. By 1 March they must either reach a deal or implement automatic and deep cuts drastically affecting the running of the military and the defence industry which it procures from. 2013-02-20 16:05:33 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C51093FC497623/ As the UK sends 330 personnel to assist France's military intervention in Mali, there are real concerns that, like Afghanistan, the UK will be mired in another intractable conflict. However, the strategic conditions are very different for this to happen and it is wrong to assume there will be mission creep. 2013-01-30 15:45:33 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C510684E1B53E8/ With US women now being allowed to participate in combat roles, the US military can be applauded for its move towards gender equality. But its driving imperative must remain a commitment to military effectiveness, and to the lives of the men and women who serve. 2013-01-28 14:04:06 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A50F81AC5C302C/ As France seeks to mitigate the immediate threat posed by the crisis in Mali, the longer-term, strategic questions facing the country are being defined by the forthcoming defence white paper. 2013-01-17 15:39:05 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A50F816CB514B2/ To maintain its strategic edge against an evolving threat, the Israel Defense Forces have developed capabilities-based defence concepts rooted in the principle of ‘reverse asymmetry’. (Free access) 2013-01-17 15:22:50 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A50F8155846A2B/ With Australia’s economy performing well, the government’s recent dramatic reduction of defence spending may prove a mysterious, and retrograde, step in the eyes of its strategic allies. 2013-01-17 15:16:09 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A50C76989BB79D/ The UK's decision to choose the F-35B variant of the Lightning II may have saddled the military with a more expensive, less effective platform 2012-12-11 17:12:48 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A50C7686D1B74E/ The UK government's decision to revert to the F-35B Lightning II variant for its new aircraft carriers may have the positive (if unintended) outcome of enforcing a re-think in strategy (Free access) 2012-12-11 17:08:01 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C50B5E4A0E996C/ The recent visit by Barack Obama to Southeast Asia is a clear elucidation of his Administration’s ambitions for the region. It is becoming clear that both China and the US are competing for regional influence, forcing the ASEAN states to walk a tightrope in their engagement with the two major powers. 2012-11-28 10:19:36 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C50AF6FF92537D/ The latest crisis between Israel and Palestine highlighted the utility of the Israel Defence Force’s Iron Dome system. It emphasises once again the importance of missile defence and has gained the attention of the United States. Still deemed as a key US priority, it sees cooperation with Israel as integral to developing future capabilities. 2012-11-23 12:49:02 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C509BC18C2849C/ Now the election is over and the composition of Congress is known, both Republicans and Democrats must come to a compromise to ensure the smooth running of US foreign policy and to avert the looming threat of sequestration. 2012-11-08 14:31:38 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A509A443E5D1BB/ Does the approach of the current German government to defence exports represent a shift away from the restrictive political principles for the export of military equipment established in January 2000? (Free access) 2012-11-07 11:21:44 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A509A2189CC260/ To what extent will one of the most important strategic decisions of Obama’s first term – the 'pivot' to Asia – prove an enduring commitment into his second term? (Free access) 2012-11-07 08:58:10 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C508670CC7892A/ Retrenchment will be the dominating theme for US foreign policy whoever wins the presidential elections on 6 November. The next president will face a protectionist Congress; a military undergoing huge defence cuts; and a public opinion that has lost interest in foreign affairs and feels that nation-building should begin at home. 2012-10-23 13:30:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C5086743C40F1C/ The US presidential elections will be watched in Asia for further clues of how the American focus on Asia will manifest in practice over the next four years. Understanding how different Asian states respond according to their own circumstances will keep the next US administration very busy indeed. 2012-10-23 12:00:37 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N507BDE949F81D/ The overall cost of defending an independent Scotland has been estimated to be around £1.8 billion per annum, approximately 1.3 per cent of Scotland's GDP, and around £1.5 billion less than the costs currently paid by Scottish taxpayers as their contribution to the defence of the UK, claims a new Whitehall Report published by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2012-10-15 10:59:52 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:V5078182EA6061/ Dr John Louth, Deputy Director of the Defence, Industries and Societies Programme assesses the failure of the merger between two of Europe's leading defence companies. 2012-10-12 14:18:07 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C5076BBF4D17F2/ The failure to bring the businesses together represents a bitter blow to advocates who sought the creation of a new, European, global aerospace-defence giant, and raises questions about BAE Systems’ future strategy. 2012-10-11 13:32:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A5058AB014BDBE/ Captain George Galdorisi, US Navy (Rtd), and Dr Scott C Truver put a compelling argument for the need for a US/European Ballistic Missile Defence shield 2012-09-18 18:10:47 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A5058A7896E7B9/ Current thinking has led the British Army to define forces as light, medium and heavy. William F Owen explains why the concept of medium forces is potentially dangerous 2012-09-18 17:55:58 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A5058A66A0642F/ Arthur I Cyr compares and contrasts UK and US defence policy changes since the end of the Second World War to highlight how the countries can still learn from each other 2012-09-18 17:51:07 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C50535403534EB/ The rumoured merger between EADS and BAE Systems is a reflection of longer term trends within the defence industry. But short term impediments will have to be overcome to ensure this deal goes through. 2012-09-14 16:59:39 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C50534A0EA81CF/ The proposed merger of BAE Systems and EADS has naturally attracted a number of concerns, from safeguarding sovereign defence industries to job cuts through rationalisation. But are these concerns with foundation? 2012-09-14 16:16:32 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C5052EC895E7AE/ The marriage between EADS and BAE Systems is logical as the defence market shrinks further and the United States pivots towards Asia. The challenge will lie in the governments that influence these two firms. 2012-09-14 09:40:55 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A50461DAF8055B/ To what extent has the British National Security Strategy succeeded in promoting a more integrated approach to national security? 2012-09-04 16:26:42 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A5046117B0DEAB/ To what extent should Britain and France be looking to open up their bilateral defence agreements in favour of wider European defence co-operation? 2012-09-04 15:34:38 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A50200978C9189/ Regional commitments and preparing for the unique challenges of cold-weather operations have provided new impetus in the UK's military arctic engagement 2012-08-06 19:16:37 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A502008A0F3CA5/ A key figure in the last decade of British counter-insurgency thought discusses the difficult and fraught process of doctrine generation 2012-08-06 19:10:45 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A502008413B97F/ Grand strategy is often seen as something of a dated concept; a fresh examination reveals it still has much to offer the policy-maker 2012-08-06 19:09:53 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N501674F3225F2/ The government has proposed a bold new plan for Defence Equipment and Support to go government owned, contractor operated. But will it work? 2012-07-27 12:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C5007F6EB2FA7B/ Germany has historically restricted defence exports in fear of contributing to international insecurity. Now, recent steps to reform restrictions on defence exports has once more fuelled a debate that goes to the heart of Germany's political consciousness, while highlighting one of Germany's fundamental defence industrial policy dilemmas. 2012-07-19 13:11:00 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N505AF4837681B/ Last month, Dr. Tobias Feakin spoke at the Defencse, National Security and Climate Change Workshop, held in Washington D.C. in June 2012-07-02 11:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N505AE6BE4F533/ Dr Tobias Feakin Discusses the Current State of the Debate in Europe on Climate Change and the Military. 2012-06-24 10:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4FD73A6883CBB/ Fresh thinking, which combines both accurate reflection on and articulation of the challenges facing air power, is needed now more than ever 2012-06-12 13:47:38 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4FD7396F46AF8/ Alexander McKenzie argues that air power remains a vital component of military force across the spectrum of conflict 2012-06-12 13:43:30 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4FD732A9C9F61/ The UK and Japan are investing again in a relationship that brings mutual benefit to the security and defence of both nations 2012-06-12 13:14:36 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4FD731BCB33DF/ Has the increased prominence of force protection in UK political debates in the past decade resulted in a strategic cultural shift? 2012-06-12 13:10:38 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4FD723A8CC151/ What would the implications of Scottish independence be for the defence of the British Isles, and of Scotland in particular? (Free access) 2012-06-12 12:10:42 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A4FC4A282ECF82/ At half-time, how is the government's reform of defence acquisition faring? 2012-05-29 11:18:44 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A4FC48C16F19E9/ A valued member of the Alliance, what does the future hold for Denmark's membership of NATO? 2012-05-29 09:43:04 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4FACE1DB6AC6E/ The UK Government's decision to opt for the F-35 B, vertical landing Joint Strike Fighter means that aircraft carriers will not be fitted with 'cats-and-traps' and will lose the strategic flexibility originally envisaged. To some degree, that loss can be offset by bringing two aircraft carriers into service. 2012-05-11 11:07:30 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4FA251046DCE9/ The success of military operations in Afghanistan and beyond requires better communications with publics at home and on the frontline. To do this, we need to further erode the barriers between the diplomatic, military and civilian worlds. 2012-05-03 10:37:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F9AB2B64D19C/ Media debate on the UK's carrier programme is focusing on the jets, rather than the ships they land on. Central to this discussion is 'cats and traps', the launch and recovery system, which drives the choice of aircraft. Critics who say that this will cost too much overlook the long-term strategic value it will add. 2012-04-27 15:57:19 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F9A68FA1E4B7/ As the UK government grapples with whether or not to carry out a U-turn over which variant of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), chiefly because of issues surrounding carrier conversion costs, there are broader issues beyond technical and financial ones, and some echoes from the past. 2012-04-27 10:43:52 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4F7449EE2B0BD/ RUSI’s Dr John Louth makes the case that returning stolen assets to sovereign nations is a vital element of stability building and should receive greater government support 2012-03-29 12:39:55 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A4F71DC7D00C74/ Is the MoD sharing the pain of budget cuts evenly across the civil service and armed forces? 2012-03-27 16:28:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F6C9D5A2F291/ As the full ramifications of the austerity measures become clear, the UK may be reconsidering the choice of F-35 variant which it will buy under its Joint Combat Aircraft programme. For costs and operational reasons, Variant B is the logical choice. 2012-03-23 16:00:36 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F6324444BE2E/ Megaphone diplomacy precedes the forthcoming thirtieth anniversary of the Falklands War. But the stakes are too high for Argentina to turn the rhetoric into another armed conflict. 2012-03-16 11:33:38 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4F43DEF91E09C/ The Bundeswehr is undergoing the most important change since the end of the Cold War 2012-02-21 18:15:36 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4F43DAC845142/ An insider's account of the SDSR suggests ways forward to ensure better delivery of national security policy 2012-02-21 17:56:27 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4F43D8B9932FE/ The relationship between politicians and generals may be strained, but it is as vital as ever to get it right 2012-02-21 17:47:55 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F2AAD44A6AC8/ On 1 February 2012, the UK government published its long awaited on defence procurement. It sets a vision intending to reform Britain's fraught acquisition and procurement process, but the challenge will be at the implementation stage. 2012-02-02 15:36:11 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F27DEC457144/ Relations between Latin America and the UK are at a level unseen for almost two centuries, but attempts by Argentina to diplomatically isolate the UK from the region over the Falkland Islands could seriously impact British strategic interests across the continent. 2012-01-31 12:41:58 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F1437ECDEF28/ India is setting its sights on a new medium range combat aircraft from Europe. The competition to sell new aircraft to India is part of an increased engagement by European defence manufacturers in Asia, set against the backdrop of an economic downturn and shifting regional geopolitics. 2012-01-16 15:02:22 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F0AC9FF408BF/ President Obama's new defence strategy purportedly removes the United States historic commitment to fight two major theatre wars simultaneously. Despite the strategic and financial rationale, he will have to sell this departure in strategy to the American public. 2012-01-09 11:11:09 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4F0ABF3635036/ President Obama's new defence strategy with its reorientation towards the Pacific is good news for airpower and the US Air Force. Despite proposed budget cuts, there will be a continued reliance on strategic air assets. 2012-01-09 10:23:12 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4EE21DCAD8BB0/ While Liddell Hart's idea of a 'British Way in Warfare' is persuasive in an era of stretched budgets, it is ultimatly a deficient one. But his great contribution remains the debate that he framed 2011-12-09 14:40:13 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4EE21C5A40417/ Would remotely piloted capabilities offer a solution to the pressures placed on the UK defence budget by austerity and inflation? 2011-12-09 14:34:17 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4EE21917980BD/ The international community can contain piracy in the short-term by denying the pirates sanctuary, engaging shipowners and avoiding the temptation to ban ransoms 2011-12-09 14:20:11 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4ED616EAAFE1E/ Women from the highest ranks of defence forces from ten countries have been meeting at a conference to celebrate their achievement and discuss the issues they face. Lizz Pearson talks to the organisers of the conference and finds out that the issues are less about gender and more about sharing expertise. 2011-11-30 11:45:57 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4ED3C35A8D232/ What is the planning required to ensure successful transition from the Vanguard class to the successor SSBN? 2011-11-28 17:22:44 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4ED3B574A8C3A/ The Total Support Force concept could lead to a more efficient, better-value UK defence capability. 2011-11-28 16:23:57 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4ED3AFDA38338/ A continued failure in European military logistic capabilities could lead to the break-up of the Atlantic Alliance 2011-11-28 16:02:48 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4ED3A551BFA74/ The minister for defence, equipment support and technology explains the role and achievements of the Defence Equipment and Support organisation 2011-11-28 15:15:07 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4ED3A46BF24DB/ The minister for international security strategy outlines the coalition government’s latest work to help cut the deficit through its support to increased defence exports 2011-11-28 15:11:28 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4ED3A0239BCAE/ Recent criticism of the Ministry of Defence’s ability to control the cost of its Equipment Programme may be unfair and misleading 2011-11-28 14:52:24 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4ED39CBAAB192/ How might the SDSR be remedied? 2011-11-28 14:39:11 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4ECD12AB0B7D0/ The current controversy over the supposed relaxation of security checks at UK borders highlights the complex nature of border security. The issue goes far beyond personality clashes and Ministerial accountability. It may prove to provide the impetus for root-and-branch border security reform. 2011-11-23 15:51:43 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4EC4FDF001171/ The UK's National Audit Office has published its latest report assessing the Major Projects of the Ministry of Defence. The informative document reports only very limited cost overruns, and few of them can be seen as industry's responsibility. It also provokes thoughts about the government's accounting system and the protected position of the Joint Combat Aircraft in the British defence programme. 2011-11-17 12:34:23 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4EB8157BCED94/ Countries across Europe are under severe pressure to reduce their budget deficits, Germany is no different. This fiscal tightening may fundamentally affect Germany's security and defence policy. 2011-11-07 17:31:44 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4EA6F18382E4A/ The UK can no longer make effective national defence strategy as it once did, and the National Security Council (NSC) currently lacks the method and institutional frame to address future security threats, warns a new paper published by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) in partnership with the new Humanities Research Institute (HRI) at the University of Buckingham. 2011-10-25 23:45:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4E9BFA48C7C7A/ As implementation of the Levene Report begins, are a new set of problems being created at the Ministry of Defence? 2011-10-17 11:00:46 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4E8182FD73716/ The Ministry of Defence (MoD) appears to have balanced the £74 billion* ten-year 'funding gap', but key equipment programmes, such as Trident renewal and Joint Strike Fighter, are still a major source of potential instability to defence budget, highlights a new paper from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2011-09-27 09:04:04 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4E81E533902D2/ The Labour Party’s emerging policies for future defence procurement represent a mix of new ideas for the future along with old concepts from the past. It is now the job of Labour to convert procurement 'ideas' into a detailed implementation plan. 2011-09-27 04:15:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4E4523B5F3E49/ George V Galdorisi looks at how NATO’s Ballistic Missile Defence efforts can be used to support expeditionary warfare campaigns. 2011-08-12 14:00:09 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4E452047ED601/ RUSI’s Acquisition Forum makes a robust plea for careful government defence acquisition policy reform and warns of the dangers of any ill-conceived changes. 2011-08-12 13:45:36 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A4E3172FCA859C/ As Western missile defence systems become more effective, could independently powered, manoeuvrable nuclear warheads be the answer to Russia's prayers? 2011-07-28 15:39:23 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4E316C8388D65/ British power is in decline. If the UK is to regain relevance in the coming Asian century, it must embrace and utilise its greatest political asset: multiculturalism. 2011-07-28 15:09:34 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4E27DE2427D25/ The Ministry of Defence has indicated the need for reservists to become integral to all defence tasks, resulting in the significant rebalancing of the structure of the armed forces by 2020. Undoubtedly there will be risks involved, but these are manageable provided there is political and institutional willingness to develop a more sophisticated approach to force generation. 2011-07-21 09:12:10 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4E10D753A41ED/ Recent tensions between British politicians and the military top brass are a symptom of the uncertainty over whose long term vision for British defence policy is the more realistic. Such tensions are not new, demonstrating the inability of policymakers to get to grips with strategy. 2011-07-04 07:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4E04359766ACC/ The Ministry of Defence (MoD) will need clear ministerial, and Defence Board, guidance to introduce revolutionary new ways of working to ensure the department still operates coherently following the proposed major cuts to civil service numbers, according to a joint study by Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) and Cranfield University staff. 2011-06-24 08:01:46 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4DF0A2F39DAA2/ The victory of Scottish nationalists in the recent Scottish Parliamentary elections brings closer the possibility of Scotland's independence. With Britain's nuclear arsenal located largely in Scotland, policymakers must now consider what independence would entail for the security of the United Kingdom. 2011-06-10 08:45:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4DE788325103E/ Missile defence plays an essential role in contemporary deterrence 2011-06-02 13:55:19 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4DA87193A2966/ The recent Public Accounts Committee report has raised further concerns over the performance of the Typhoon Project citing spares shortages and the lack of a national supply chain. In reality defence funding shortages and poor international contracting arrangements have also contributed. The Committee's proposal to enhance the power of the Senior Responsible Owner for Typhoon would have significant implications for the entire organisation of the Ministry of Defence. 2011-04-15 17:29:16 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4D9EEFAF078C3/ With the continental threat gone, Austria, Finland, Sweden and Switzerland have embarked on different paths of defence reform 2011-04-08 12:21:50 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4D9EE957100B2/ Deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan has not led to increased mental health problems amongst UK armed forces personnel, but alcohol misuse is an ongoing concern 2011-04-08 11:54:16 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4D9B3A344DA0B/ Arming the Libyan rebels in the hope of expediating the ousting of the Qadhafi regime would be at best misguided, at worst detrimental to their cause. 2011-04-05 17:04:28 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4D886D88718D2/ Vice President Biden's visit to Moscow, during which the thorny issue of missile defence co-operation was extensively discussed, may herald a thawing in NATO-Russian rhetoric. 2011-03-22 09:46:52 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4D8767117F1B2/ RUSI Director Professor Michael Clarke assesses British and French capabilities regarding the enforcement of the Libya no-fly zone. 2011-03-21 14:57:54 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4D7109D002CD0/ The recent public questioning of French foreign policy comes at an inconvenient time for President Sarkozy, and has done nothing to reassure the French people of their nation's continued global influence. 2011-03-04 15:48:38 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4D6E54FB53BA1/ The Pentagon's decision to award a $35 billion tanker contract to Boeing instead of Europe's EADS caused a stir among investors and politicans on both sides of the Atlantic. Professor Trevor Taylor, RUSI Professorial Fellow in Defence Management, analyses the context and assesses the possible implications of the move. 2011-03-02 14:38:48 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4D5BAA6213A8E/ Prolonged military commitments and financial austerity call into question Britain’s participation in the age of intervention 2011-02-16 10:43:49 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4D5BA9D567868/ The Trident procurement decision must be advised by a proper assessment of Britain’s deterrence requirements 2011-02-16 10:41:45 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4D5BA9D567868/ The Trident procurement decision must be advised by a proper assessment of Britain’s deterrence requirements 2011-02-16 10:41:45 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4D4C20CB26473/ Footage of JCBs turning Nimrods to scrap metal reflects the drastic nature of recent cuts in the defence budget, but seemingly straightforward changes can have far-reaching implications for UK defence policy. 2011-02-04 16:00:06 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4D400EF3D8173/ RUSI is pleased to announce the publication of this White Paper, which presents 'the case for a capability and consequence-based approach to resilience and emergency planning.' 2010-12-12 12:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4CFE20BFA74CE/ The UK lags behind European co-operation on space technology. Is it time to take the lead? 2010-12-07 11:55:52 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4CFE1F891D43D/ Britain has relied too much and for too long on allies for its space capability 2010-12-07 11:50:58 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4CFE1D4717D04/ The affordability of the SDSR may have come at a price 2010-12-07 11:41:16 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4CBC167439782/ The Royal Air Force will have a vital core role to play in future joint operations 2010-10-18 10:42:24 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4CAAEFEE4FA17/ There is now a consensus that the Strategic Defence and Security Review is being conducted too fast and without due consideration to strategy. The UK’s Defence and Security cannot be left to one ministry; it is time we empower a Cabinet-level leader to enable defence and security reform across government. 2010-10-05 10:29:35 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4CA4418F2DA69/ Due to the current economic and strategic climate, British and French militaries must co-operate or 'risk ending the current decade amputated and shrunk beyond recognition, argues the latest Future Defence Review Working Paper from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2010-09-30 08:54:09 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C93946D6895F/ The coalition is understandably hesitant about committing to the cost of replacement – but it does affect our deterrent credibility 2010-09-17 17:16:49 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4C90D249C5B6C/ Professor Malcolm Chalmers believes that, rather than destroying the capabilities of the armed forces, the SDSR could help to create more sustainable armed services. 2010-09-15 15:06:05 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C8F9F4D68955/ On 13 Sept 2010, the Daily Telegraph reported how US defense officials expressed worries to cuts to the UK defence budget. RUSI's Michael Clarke assesses how this will impact on the US-UK relationship. 2010-09-14 17:18:29 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C8DEEC98CC24/ The Strategic Defence and Security Review is being conducted against a backdrop of bitter arguments between the Services and the threats of cuts of up to 20 per cent, yet it is meant to define Britain's place in the world and our foreign policy and defence priorities for decades to come. 2010-09-13 10:30:06 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4CA098E45EAA2/ The UK's capability to promote stability and prevent conflict in fragile states requires significant, cross-government reform according to a new report from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2010-08-25 14:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4C71A814B1C65/ The Royal Navy is dangerously weak, risking the silent principles of the UK's national security unless the future fleet is restored and adequately sized, claims a new article in the latest Journal of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2010-08-23 00:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4C6E39CC0082F/ The strategic defence and security review must attend to the silent principles of national security that are primarily safeguarded by the maritime capability 2010-08-22 23:45:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4C6E46F518DAC/ The persistent failure to conceive and study strategy in Britain will undermine its efforts to draft a lasting framework for defence and security from the current SDSR process 2010-08-22 23:45:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C6D3ABF2024C/ Learning lessons from past Defence Reviews 2010-08-19 16:12:13 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C6D2A628B79D/ As we enter an era of declining access on a global scale, the UK armed forces must learn from Cold War disjointery and end its historic inter-service rivalry. 2010-08-19 14:09:32 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C6D0AD6E0810/ With the balance of short- and long-term requirements increasingly relevant to current defence considerations, the Inskip Defence review provides a lesson in keeping doors open. 2010-08-19 12:49:53 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C6D17CAE6E13/ Can Richard Haldane’s reforms, responsible for the best organised expeditionary force of the twentieth century, provide a basis for the current Strategic Defence Review? 2010-08-19 12:42:25 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C6D0795721B3/ Britain's imperialist mentality is outdated and overambitious: viewing the country as a global power is damaging, rather than benefiting, current defence policy. 2010-08-19 12:37:59 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C65600E6FE36/ Following the Secretary of State for Defence’s speech on the future of UK defence, how many more questions have been raised than answered? 2010-08-13 15:11:07 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C6BF9735253F/ RUSI's Michael Codner gives his assessment to the UK Defence Secretary's resolve to reform defence. 2010-08-13 15:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C52F7480348F/ The Chancellor, George Osborne, has announced that funding for the renewal of Britain's nuclear deterrent must come from the Ministry of Defence's core budget. RUSI's Malcolm Chalmers assesses the ramifications of this announcement. 2010-07-30 17:08:12 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C4EBAB3454FD/ With defence spending under scrutiny, the spotlight has long since shone on Britain’s nuclear deterrent. But while the costs of replacing Trident are high, the difficulties of creating a new system may be a price we simply cannot afford to pay. 2010-07-27 12:03:01 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C4D61F21F88A/ The recent National Audit Office (NAO) report has once again raised the issue of the affordability of defence and argues for finance to have a louder voice in the Ministry of Defence (MoD). But should fiscal responsibility achieve such prominence when military lives are at risk? 2010-07-26 11:37:04 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C4FEF5384E8C/ General Sir David Richards has been announced as the next Chief of the Defence Staff replacing Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup. 2010-07-10 09:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C3469BA71A88/ Nick Harvey MP, Minister of State for the Armed Forces delivered his Keynote Address to The RUSI Future Maritime Operations Conference. 2010-07-07 13:04:51 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C233A1FC3171/ The first budget of the Coalition government could lead to the core defence budget being cut in real terms by up to 15%, with numbers of military personnel being reduced by around 30,000. 2010-06-24 12:03:09 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4C220ED8B9E8E/ Sir Robert Hayman-Joyce explores the reasons behind the failures of several procurement programmes 2010-06-23 14:41:42 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4C220D5BEFBBD/ Peter Flach sets out the reasons that MoD has spent almost £1bn without a single vehicle to show for it 2010-06-23 14:34:50 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4C220A4008A4F/ Sir Jeremy Blackham examines the flaws in UK acquisition policy 2010-06-23 14:21:38 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4C22094DB4284/ Professor David Kirkpatrick discusses the costs arising from delays in procurement procedures 2010-06-23 14:17:27 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4C2204E39AC73/ Major General (ret’d) David Shouesmith and Dean Gilmore discuss the improvement of the current acquisition model 2010-06-23 13:58:13 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4C21EEDFC57E2/ Sir Jeremy Blackham states that we must find a new approach to the upcoming Defence Review to ensure that a long-term perspective is maintained. 2010-06-23 12:24:19 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4C21ECB4D6E48/ The RUSI Acquisition Focus identifies some major issues that will have to be resolved within defence equipment acquisition, including reform at the top of the MoD, management of complexity, MoD’s relationship with industry and improving the early stages of acquisition. 2010-06-23 12:15:07 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4C21D607E6CD3/ The British military presses ahead with expensive projects that may be of relatively little value in future wars. The UK needs to carefully consider what is needed in-theatre today, and on the battlefield tomorrow 2010-06-23 10:39:25 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4C21D5504DEF7/ Amphibious forces make an invaluable contribution to British military capability - both today and on the beaches of Gallipoli in 1915 2010-06-23 10:35:14 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4C21D3D74C1DF/ If Britain is to maintain an autonomous operational capability, decisions on ballistic missile defence cannot be postponed during the current defence review 2010-06-23 10:28:57 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4C21D1B4B7711/ In the annual Kermit Roosevelt Lecture, the Commanding General of TRADOC calls for intellectual and institutional clarity about the changing character of conflict 2010-06-23 10:21:31 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C1E81E1E2A7D/ Every generation or so, the British prime minister is faced with a decisive choice over the direction which the UK should take in world affairs. This time round, economic restraints will also contribute to a fundamental reassessment of grand strategy and defence policy. However, reassessment need not mean retreat and we must maintain an ability to deter so our allies and potential rivals will listen. 2010-06-20 22:04:41 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4C0F6DC2C2608/ General David H. Petraeus, the current Commander of US Central Command spoke at RUSI's Land Warfare Conference on 9 June 2010. General Petraeus spoke of the enduring relationship between British and US Armed forces. 2010-06-09 11:45:10 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4C075E3815930/ The deeper the immediate budget cuts that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has to make, the greater the risk of reduced capability without commensurate financial gains, argues the latest Future Defence Review Working Paper from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2010-06-03 08:49:44 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4C075A0A72D7A/ The deeper the immediate budget cuts that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has to make, the greater the risk of reduced capability without commensurate financial gains, argues the latest Future Defence Review Working Paper from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2010-06-03 08:32:39 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4BDACDB35404A/ The forthcoming Strategic Defence Review may pave the way for a more co-operative and economical approach to defence policy 2010-04-30 14:01:39 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BD7D5F88D18A/ From an American perspective, the United Kingdom is uniquely placed to complement US strategy and has a key role in upholding international security. The international community and Americans expect the UK and US to act in concert. Defence reviews on both sides of the Atlantic must be mindful of this consideration. 2010-04-28 07:35:05 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BD17C2CD7E3A/ Seeing the effects of personal style on the outcome of last week’s debate, all three leaders tried to put their personality into the defence and security tussle; not an easy thing to do when trying to be a world figure. 2010-04-23 11:55:03 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BCECAA3CE720/ In this statement Gordon Brown outlines the challenges faced by the British armed forces over the last decade, reaffirming his support for their continuing presence in Afghanistan. He estimates an increase in defence spending next year while promising to reform procurement, reduce civilian staff and cut lower priority spending. He also outlines his goal to reduce Britain’s number of nuclear warheads while maintaining an independent nuclear deterrent. 2010-04-21 10:51:34 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BCEC98CCE762/ In this statement David Cameron outlines his plans to introduce a National Security Council, dedicated border force, Cyber Threat Assessment Centre and a permanent military Homeland Command for domestic emergency planning. He also reaffirms his support for British involvement in Afghanistan and the maintenance of an independent nuclear deterrent. 2010-04-21 10:47:14 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BCEC769462C7/ In this statement Nick Clegg outlines his goal to move away from ‘default Atlantacism’ and towards a more concerted European defence partnership. He rules out a like-for-like replacement of Trident and promotes the possibility of increased equipment cooperation with European allies. 2010-04-21 10:38:54 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:N4BCFA41C41057/ Part Six: In the final installment of these interviews, General Sir Mike Jackson, former Chief of the General Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Brian Burridge, former commander of British forces during Operation Telic and Rear Admiral Chris Parry, former Director General, Development, Concepts & Doctrine, offer their headline advice to an incoming government. 2010-04-20 13:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BCF8D139590C/ Part One: Ahead of the British elections on 6 May, senior former military leaders give their assessment of the issues facing defence and security. General Sir Mike Jackson, Air Chief Marshal Sir Brian Burridge and Rear Admiral Chris Parry take part in the interview. 2010-04-20 09:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:N4BCF8F0080586/ Part Two: Will the next government and the British public have the staying power to complete the job in Afghanistan? Ahead of the British elections on 6 May, senior former military leaders give their assessment of the issues facing defence and security. General Sir Mike Jackson, Air Chief Marshal Sir Brian Burridge and Rear Admiral Chris Parry take part in the interview. 2010-04-20 08:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:N4BCF91A664FB0/ Part Four: Continuing their interview, General Sir Mike Jackson, Air Chief Marshal Sir Brian Burridge and Rear Admiral Chris Parry outline what the defence spending priorities should be for an incoming government on 6 May. 2010-04-20 07:15:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:N4BCF92D9CE74E/ Part Five: General Sir Mike Jackson, Air Chief Marshal Sir Brian Burridge and Rear Admiral Chris Parry discuss the nexus between political debate and the consensus on the Armed Forces. 2010-04-20 06:30:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:N4BCF945167B75/ Part Six: In the final installment of these interviews, General Sir Mike Jackson, former Chief of the General Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Brian Burridge, former commander of British forces during Operation Telic and Rear Admiral Chris Parry, former Director General, Development, Concepts & Doctrine, offer their headline advice to an incoming government. 2010-04-20 06:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BC83AA0514EB/ The achievements of the NPR and the signing of New START are the first steps towards President Obama’s stated goal of a nuclear free world. However limited their successes may be, their announcements signify real progress in nuclear disarmament. 2010-04-16 11:26:53 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BC30B2081F61/ After the UK General Elections, the promised Strategic Defence Review needs to be developed on the basis of the likely outcomes in Afghanistan. It may be essential to have a genuinely radical solution to the defence crisis where the three services would each need to commit themselves to a single mission and a unified doctrine. 2010-04-12 13:02:40 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BBDE3FCD05AA/ The US Nuclear Posture Review (NPR) released at the beginning of April has some significant implications for America’s friends and allies as well as potential adversaries. 2010-04-08 15:14:10 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BBC50E1BAF9C/ The Indian military is caught between preparing for conventional war against neighbouring powers, Pakistan and China, and reorganising as an asymmetric deterrent against cross-border terrorism. It seems they are struggling on both counts. 2010-04-07 10:34:03 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A4BA0C84C8C36F/ The latest QDR has been criticised for failing to match strategic vision with contemporary realities. But it still provides a useful template for long-term change 2010-03-17 12:17:20 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A4BA0C6A6A9145/ With the coming UK defence review, an enhanced Franco-British bilateral relationship may be on the horizon 2010-03-17 12:10:39 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B9A677D2E3B6/ Within the next decade, European aircraft capable of delivering US nuclear weapons are due to be withdrawn from service. What are the options available to NATO in the debate over the continuance of its tactical nuclear capability? 2010-03-12 16:21:26 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4B8E4AE18C3D7/ What are the challenges of achieving global maritime security and how important is a federation of national and regional systems in overcoming them? 2010-03-03 11:41:26 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4B86698501C53/ Domestic crime, terrorism and insurgency now go hand in hand. Western counter-terrorism and home affairs policy must embrace the new challenges and adapt to combat the interlinked threats 2010-02-25 12:14:02 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4B86651F4DD35/ Russia has recognised the need to transform the army following its poor display during the 2008 war with Georgia. However, more must be done if it is to create fully modern and professional armed forces 2010-02-25 11:58:39 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4B8661FFCA6E3/ British military strategy currently fails to adhere to the lessons of great classical strategists. A new strategic ‘grammar’ that incorporates these insights is necessary 2010-02-25 11:41:49 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B7C13DD39AA8/ The use of the sea remains fundamental to international security. At a time of increasing public spending constraints, what is the significance of naval force – and of the Royal Navy in particular – in supporting national and international defence and security. 2010-02-17 16:09:26 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B7A87F069E3D/ The Obama Administration has outlined a refocusing of the United States missile defence plans, revising the approach previously taken by the Bush White House. Central to the plan is the deployment of more mobile systems that could assuage the once sceptical Russians. 2010-02-16 12:03:47 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B715FF659286/ This lecture outlined the progress made across the UK Government in its ability to adopt a comprehensive approach focusing on the increasing contributions made by the Stabilisation Unit, particularly in Afghanistan. It reviewed the debate about the respective roles of civilians and the military in stabilisation, and the ways in which civilian skills can best be generated and managed for hostile environments. Richard Teuten provided an update on the enhanced responsibilities being taken on by the Unit and refer to other complementary changes underway. 2010-02-09 13:16:01 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B702AC47A4BF/ The latest Quadrennial Defense Review promises to increase the numbers, sophistication and use of unmanned aerial vehicles, known as drones. Their use has rendered the boundaries of the theatres of war more fluid, requiring the rapid integration of this weapon to be piloted more carefully than ever before. 2010-02-08 15:20:03 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B6C4E6458A39/ The Green Paper to the Strategic Defence Review highlights strategic premises which should be presented to the public in the run up to the General Election. 2010-02-05 17:02:11 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B6C43B6DB9DD/ Since the Government announced a Defence Green Paper in July 2009, and the undertaking of a Strategic Defence Review after the next General Election, RUSI has consistently delivered insightful analysis and commentary which has helped frame the national debate. The series of working papers addressing the Future Defence Review have received widespread media attention and praise from within the defence community. 2010-02-05 16:14:17 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B6C2E49D19B4/ The Defence Green Paper hints at more cooperation with Europeans as the way forward, but a need for short-term cuts may damage the coherence of defence outputs before the defence review is completed. 2010-02-05 14:44:03 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B685819CE68C/ The latest Quadrennial Defense Review, presented by the US Department of Defense, outlines a five-year programme until 2015 that sees the US playing a 'global role' in 'a complex environment'. It could pave the way for big changes as it accomodates itself to adjusting military capability so as to be able to do more with its allies. 2010-02-02 17:13:46 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B5D811C5B7C2/ Our services must get smarter to cope with today’s threats. Their ability to adapt and maintain their high professionalism and dedication in a range of roles and with a variety of technologies is key to playing to British strengths. 2010-01-25 11:37:20 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4B4C60CD6E4DE/ The growing costs of UK defence capabilities, combined with cuts in the Ministry of Defence (MoD) budget as a result of the nation's fiscal crisis, will make it impossible to preserve current numbers of service personnel and front-line capabilities. 2010-01-12 11:45:51 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF16F583D391/ Amidst ongoing economic woes, defence has emerged as one of the most challenging policy areas for the Labour government. 2010-01-04 12:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B4124C0DCB72/ As the effects of the global recession begins to be felt, this year will emphasise some new political realities in the international order. They will form the backdrop to the return of some traditional security issues. 2010-01-03 23:18:18 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B2BA21424302/ The most arresting point made by the latest report from the National Audit Office concerns the slippage of major projects. It reveals that the majority of the increase in project costs is due 'to deliberate decisions to slip projects, taken corporately by the Department as part of a wider package designed to address a gap between estimated funding and the cost of the Defence budget over the next ten years'. 2009-12-18 15:43:59 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4B28F1972200C/ The winning entry in the 2009 Trench Gascoigne Essay Prize argues that Britain's future defence policy must look beyond counter-insurgency 2009-12-16 14:41:53 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4B28F0CD0211A/ Credible deterrence remains the core of Britain's nuclear posture: further cutting resources for this would be self-defeating 2009-12-16 14:38:31 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4B28EDF601CA0/ Reviews of two key new works on counter-insurgency 2009-12-16 14:25:59 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4B28EBBC57B87/ Government and military have yet to create a truly comprehensive approach to operations. Creating cross-departmental frameworks will need a set of bold reforms 2009-12-16 14:20:36 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4B28EAD46B941/ The Afghan campaign demands reform of government institutions back in Whitehall. Ultimately, however, success will depend on the quality of Afghan leadership 2009-12-16 14:14:19 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B28B2C882CF9/ Bring on new Chinooks. But the defence budget can't cover the needs of a long-term occupation 2009-12-16 10:15:47 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B28AC1602813/ Bob Ainsworth, the Defence Secretary, has announced deep cuts in military personnel and equipment to fund a £900 million boost for the Afghanistan campaign. However the figures may not stack up. Something is going to give and in a big way. Defence is living through a slow motion road accident while it waits for the political wheel to turn and give it some strategic direction. 2009-12-16 09:48:04 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B20EF703EDFF/ Recent reports of Indian intentions to purchase an aircraft carrier from Britain would not substantially add to India's ambitions to be a global power. However, the rumours are symbolic of India's delicate strategic balancing act as it shifts its focus to China. 2009-12-10 13:03:22 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4B14E068758F1/ British success in Malaya appeared to show how an insurgency could be defeated by Western-led forces. The campaign was plundered for ‘lessons’ – for Vietnam in particular. The latter’s failure, however, led critics to argue that Malaya was a special case which did not offer transferable ‘lessons’. An analysis of the general principles underlying British success in Malaya can nevertheless still provide important policy implications for Afghanistan. 2009-11-28 09:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4AF850322FE64/ The review of the government's acquisition programme should be welcomed by all who care about equipping our Armed Forces with the right equipment, at the right time, within an affordable programme - and it is to be hoped that this includes both present defence ministers and their successors after the next election. 2009-11-09 17:37:51 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4AF2BCEC6F087/ While both the Gray report on defence acquisition and the Haddon-Cave report on the Nimrod disaster cover a similar subject, they offer very different visions for future reform in the Ministry of Defence. 2009-11-05 12:11:08 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1A93900371/ How the German government's plan to replace fossil fuels with renewables will affect the German military sector 2009-11-04 16:19:04 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1A82F8B082/ How the MoD can lower its carbon emissions in the near, medium and long terms 2009-11-04 16:14:35 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1A7751FBD1/ How is energy currently used in defence, and how could it be used in the future? 2009-11-04 16:11:49 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1A6A285191/ The UK's MoD is not alone in its effort to become green - US forces are also developing the efficiency and security of their energy supplies 2009-11-04 16:08:17 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1A5C8AAB7E/ The military's operational dependency on fossil fuels needs to be reduced - how can the MoD tackle this problem in the medium and long term? 2009-11-04 16:03:36 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1A4D95671C/ Inherent differences between the UK's armed services have made Air/Land integration difficult to achieve 2009-11-04 15:59:44 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1A26BDFEE4/ How do India, China, Israel and Japan handle defence spending and co-ordination compared to the UK? 2009-11-04 15:49:20 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1A18799CB8/ What needs to be done to improve the process of setting operational requirements and altering them when the defence environment changes? 2009-11-04 15:46:31 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF19CF309D4F/ Significant new approaches to manufacturing the F-35 fighter have yet to be appreciated by the US authorities 2009-11-04 15:26:25 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF19BBD54954/ Major increases in China's procurement spending are changing the country's defence industry 2009-11-04 15:21:43 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF1728DE409D/ Why Britain's defence industry has decided to take a higher profile in the public debate 2009-11-04 12:25:12 http://www.rusi.org/publications/defencesystems/ref:A4AF17089BFE59/ Evidence is emerging from many quarters of a deepening crisis in the MoD. 2009-11-04 12:16:11 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4AEB23617A11F/ As a defence review approaches, Britain's air power is once again under the microscope. More than even, a joint capacity is vital 2009-10-30 17:33:26 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4AEB111CC87A7/ There are fundamental societal changes taking places, argues Castells. It is unclear that bureaucratic frameworks of state power can keep up 2009-10-30 16:18:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4AE860CCDFB55/ India faces important economic and strategic choices over the next decade, especially in terms of its diplomatic relations and defence industry. While there are limited signs that India has made positive steps to improve regional relations, urgent reform is needed at the national level to ensure its security. 2009-10-28 15:20:32 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4AD6FC9F41077/ Speaking at RUSI's Qatar office on 12 October 2009, RUSI Council member and Shadow Security Minister Baroness Pauline Neville-Jones discussed the role the Middle East and the Gulf region could play in Britain's fight against terrorism over the next few years. 2009-10-15 11:52:26 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4A96780774EB3/ The Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) equipment acquisition system has come under increasing fire over the last decade. And not without reason: huge effort, continuous change and much MoD hype has not brought improvement in delivery terms that we need. 2009-08-27 13:18:25 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4A6D7D483D5C3/ A new policy of ‘Double or Quits’ has recently emerged for Afghanistan. Following a surge in troop levels both the US and UK political leadership hope for a rapid improvement in the security situation, but without this calls for a reassessment of priorities will grow louder. There is, however, the opportunity for a ‘third way’, modelled on the British experience in Basra after 2006, where a reduced footprint provided the opportunity for the success of local Iraqi forces. 2009-07-27 11:34:54 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4A4DEB373BC51/ The UK’s Future Aircraft Carrier (CVF) programme has come under pressure in the media for cost increases and potential job cuts which may follow its completion. A recent think-tank report has questioned CVF’s future contribution and relevance to potential operations. These reports, however, neglect the demonstrated relevance of aircraft carriers in supporting a range of recent UK operations, and do not appear to appreciate the absolute value of carriers in fighting, and crucially deterring, conflict. 2009-07-03 12:40:18 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4A4CA63D8E455/ A new RUSI report declares the MoD faces a budget cut of around 10-15 per cent in real terms between 2010 and 2016 2009-07-02 13:26:54 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A49F8808F852F5/ Obama’s call for a nuclear weapon-free world chimes with British policy on deterrence and disarmament. As arms reductions become more likely, is Britain really onboard? 2009-04-29 17:30:09 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C49E72AA69DE2E/ The US Defense Secretary Robert Gates has outlined plans to ‘profoundly reform’ US military spending. They include curbs on significant weapons programmes and a boost to more strategically focused projects. The underlining themes behind this new policy will certainly have implications well beyond the US defence acquisition community. 2009-04-16 14:05:35 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C49CCCAF89EFD0/ In a major policy speech on nuclear issues, Prime Minister Gordon Brown recently suggested that Trident could be placed on the international negotiation table should there be a serious move towards multilateral disarmament. If such a gambit were to succeed, it would require something more than a leap of faith in trust. 2009-03-27 12:53:28 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A49AD66BAE47B9/ Government expenditure is being placed under increasing scrutiny and there have been voices claiming that Trident is an unnecessary expense. Julian Lewis counters this argument and advocates the necessity of maintaining and renewing Britain’s nuclear deterrent. 2009-03-03 17:22:09 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A49AD6576E681E/ Britain has possessed its own nuclear weapons for just over fifty years and is laying plans to keep them going for the next half-century. But Trident replacement is not the best use of government money. 2009-03-03 17:17:07 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C49ABC3C56FFA0/ The House of Commons Defence Committee has published a damning report on Defence Equipment, highlighting the failure to translate strategy into an affordable equipment programme. 2009-03-02 11:47:49 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A494A877BD9F6A/ The forthcoming defence review will have to respond to pressures on resources, acknowledge the need to build public understanding of defence, and consider the best means to conceive of effects-based operations. 2008-12-18 17:26:10 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A494A8733DABE4/ Britain’s overall military strategy must be dominated by maritime considerations, and the national security policy that the strategy serves has to remain within reach of, though not always in lock-step with, that of the United States. 2008-12-18 17:24:11 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A494A86FBAEAF3/ Whatever adjustments to the military procurement programme are made in the defence review, the UK will still be a major military force with a future aggregate capability superior to that of any other US ally. 2008-12-18 17:23:54 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C492D7CC824145/ In preparation for its 'Defence in the Round: The United Kingdom’s Needs, Priorities and Resources' conference, RUSI releases a discussion paper posing twenty key questions about the UK's national military strategy. 2008-11-26 17:13:39 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A48DCF033DD420/ The ruling AKP’s foreign policy of ‘strategic depth’ invites the possibility of restructuring relations between the East and the West on a footing that reconciles its traditional roles with both. 2008-09-26 15:23:03 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A48871F0AA0319/ This article outlines the main areas of the most recent French Defence and National Security White Paper, and provides an analysis of the implications on France's foreign policy aspirations 2008-07-23 13:09:07 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4889A4DCA88B4/ France’s new Defence and National Security White Paper was presented at RUSI by Jean-Claude Mallet, Chairman of the French White Paper National Commission, on 02 July 2008. 2008-07-02 11:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/newsbrief/ref:A47B98CFB65C2A/ This article explores the changes to France’s security and defence apparatus currently under discussion in the halls of power in Paris. It seems the changes will result in a further strengthening of the role of the president in the French political system. 2008-02-18 13:49:49 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N47B4E10C9F25A/ An independent analysis published in this month's Journal argues that defence and security need to be overseen in parallel by Government and Parliament 2008-02-15 00:50:24 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C47275D48D1C3C/ The UK Government has just launched a consultation on the use of War Powers and the Royal Perogative. 2007-10-30 16:38:07 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N4705FEC66BFA2/ RUSI announces a new programme devoted to the contemporary challanges facing British Security Policy. 2007-10-05 10:13:31 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C45F69446BEF2F/ Conference report on the 7 March 2007 proceedings at RUSI. The debate was led by Des Browne, Michael Codner, Steven Haines, and Paul Ingram. 2007-03-13 12:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N45E55CB91FE32/ Although the Government has presented a strong case advocating the renewal of the United Kingdom’s independent nuclear deterrent, there are still lingering questions that need to be addressed. This is the key finding of ‘The United Kingdom’s Independent Strategic Nuclear Deterrent: Observations on the 2006 White Paper and Issues for the Parliamentary Debate’, a new report published by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI). 2007-02-28 10:46:39 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A45E2B9B51A41D/ To defend Britain's interests, Britain must combine 'soft' with 'hard' power argues Prime Minister Tony Blair. 2007-02-01 10:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A4587FEBB57CB6/ As we come to the end of a procurement cycle, this is the first real opportunity to address Britain's nuclear deterrent since the post-Suez Defence Review in 1957. 2006-12-19 15:03:01 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C45745AE62339A/ 2006-12-04 17:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N456F7ACC5109D/ It is likely that maintaining a minimum deterrent will be the policy recommendation that the government will put forward in the white paper, and perhaps it will be this policy which parliament will discuss and vote upon. 2006-11-30 00:45:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C44D0719016D80/ 2006-08-02 10:35:54 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A444E0E4C547D7/ The possession of the deterrent may be unpleasant, but it is an unpleasant necessity. 2006-04-25 12:56:24 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A43DA384AE1AB2/ Assuming that a decision is taken in favour of continuity of deterrent capability, the UK will need a capability relevant to a variety of new threats. 2006-01-27 15:12:48 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BA24E21BE470/ In advance of the expected General Election in May, the Rt Hon Geoffrey Hoon MP, Secretary of State for Defence, outlined his party's policy of defence. 2005-04-13 13:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:P42565ED9C0C69/ As the submarines that launch the UK’s nuclear missiles approaches the end of their operational life, what does the future hold for Britain’s nuclear capability? 2005-04-08 11:37:13 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BA24C8E6762F/ In advance of the General Election in May 2005, The Hon. Nicholas Soames MP, Conservative Party Shadow Secretary of State for Defence, outlined his party's policies on defence. 2005-04-04 13:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/analysis/commentary/ref:C4BA248B065F78/ Ahead of the election Paul Keetch outlines the Liberal Democrat policies on defence 2005-03-15 13:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f7af83beb/ In presenting his Party's response to the New Chapter Paul Keetch discusses the future of British Defence Policy. 2004-06-18 12:23:44 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f7b69264b/ Michael Codner provides a compelling round-up of UK military options and the implications of war in Iraq 2004-06-18 12:23:44 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f7afe084b/ Bernard Jenkin, the Shadow Secretary of State for Defence, assesses the New Chapter to the Strategic Defence Review 2004-06-18 12:23:44 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f7b04926b/ Geoff Hoon, the UK Secretary of State for Defence presents an overview of the New Chapter to 2004-06-18 12:23:44 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f7a02bdab/ The philosophy behind the UKs processes of force development, requirements capture and operational p 2004-06-18 12:23:43 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f79b3a80b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:43 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f7a0e566b/ The British way of warfare is quite different to that of others - a fact that reinforces the politic 2004-06-18 12:23:43 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f795a1117/ Can Trident be adapted to a non-nuclear. more conventianally armed weapon? 2004-06-18 12:23:43 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f77d6190b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:42 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f784f40cb/ 2004-06-18 12:23:42 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f77c9c28b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:42 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f78e30bcc/ 2004-06-18 12:23:42 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f76c4926b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:41 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f767b492e/ 2004-06-18 12:23:41 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f775c338b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:41 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f771f40cb/ 2004-06-18 12:23:41 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f76ca5ecb/ 2004-06-18 12:23:41 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f76d6b54b/ Conservative Party remarks made ahead of the 2001 General Elections 2004-06-18 12:23:41 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f76a04cab/ 2004-06-18 12:23:41 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f7502487b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:40 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f75d10ffb/ 2004-06-18 12:23:40 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f750de13b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:40 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f74e99b7b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:40 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f75ac0c7b/ 2004-06-18 12:23:40 http://www.rusi.org/publications/monitor/ref:A473AECFB231DF/ In the first of a two-part article Amy Leyland examines current threat perception and resource allocation by US officials 2004-03-01 12:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:P407563BCE74F1/ This article describes ten major changes to American military planning and strategy to address the current geopolitical situation. 2004-02-08 15:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f7b81d34b/ Major General Robert Fulton, Capability Manager (Information Superiority) assesses the effec 2002-10-18 12:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:J40c1f76879fab/ Labour Party remarks made ahead of the 2001 General Elections 2001-08-18 12:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A446D896C2A4F8/ Sir Michael underlines the important agenda of further arms control and reduction now available, and considers the contribution which Britain, as a Trident equipped nuclear power, could make to that agenda. 1997-12-10 10:00:00 http://www.rusi.org/publications/journal/ref:A445A0A931E54A/ 1996-12-04 15:00:00