Defense and Security

Military Operations

  • United States
    What Does the U.S. National Guard Do?
    The National Guard is a special part of the U.S. military that answers to both state governors and the president. While it began as a “strategic reserve,” the guard has come to play an important role in domestic and overseas operations.
  • Ukraine
    Comparing the Size and Capabilities of the Russian and Ukrainian Militaries
    Russia holds a sizable advantage over Ukraine on troop numbers and weaponry yet the two sides have fought to a standstill. Russia this spring has ramped up attacks on civilian targets while resisting U.S. ceasefire calls.
  • United States
    Robert B. McKeon Endowed Series on Military Strategy and Leadership
    Play
    The U.S. military service chiefs discuss the future of American defense strategy, military readiness, and emerging global challenges. The Robert B. McKeon Endowed Series on Military Strategy and Leadership features prominent individuals from the military and intelligence communities. For those attending virtually, log-in information and instructions on how to participate during the question and answer portion will be provided the evening before the event to those who register. Please note the audio, video, and transcript of this hybrid meeting will be posted on the CFR website.

Experts in this Topic

Richard K. Betts

Adjunct Senior Fellow for National Security Studies

Biddle Headshot
Stephen Biddle

Adjunct Senior Fellow for Defense Policy

Nathan Colvin
Nathan M. Colvin

Military Fellow, U.S. Army

Michael Horowitz Headshot
Michael C. Horowitz

Senior Fellow for Technology and Innovation

Thomas P. O’Donnell
Thomas P. O’Donnell

Military Fellow, U.S. Navy

Jonathan Panter
Jonathan Panter

Stanton Nuclear Security Fellow