National Security

RAND conducts a broad array of national security research for the U.S. Department of Defense. RAND also carries out an extensive research program in homeland security, homeland defense, and terrorism-related research for the U.S. Government, as well as selected research for key allied governments and ministries of defense. Through its long-term investment in federally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs), the U.S. government has built a network of institutions with unique analytical and technical capabilities.

National security research is conducted by the following RAND FFRDCs: RAND Project AIR FORCE, sponsored by the U.S. Air Force; RAND Arroyo Center, sponsored by the U.S. Army; RAND National Defense Research Institute, sponsored by the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

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While China's Regional Influence Grows, U.S. Remains Key Security and Economic Partner in East Asia — Nov. 17, 2008

China is not eroding the foundations of U.S. alliances in East Asia and the United States remains the security partner of choice in the region. But consistent U.S. efforts are needed to ensure that the nation retains its influence.

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For 10th Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation, Retirement Revisions Recommended — Nov. 13, 2008

As military compensation is a fundamental tool for recruiting and retaining an all-volunteer force, it is reviewed every four years to make sure it can meet the U.S. military's objectives. This research examines the value and effectiveness of the current retirement system and possible alternatives, drawing on military personnel career data.

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Center Assesses Post-Deployment Health-Related Needs of Iraq Veterans — May 11, 2008

The Invisible Wounds of War Study assessed Iraq veterans' health-related needs associated with PTSD, major depression, and traumatic brain injury, examined the treatment capacity of the current health care system, and estimated the costs of providing quality health care to all military members who need it.

November 17, 2008: While China's Regional Influence Grows, U.S. Remains Key Security and Economic Partner in East Asia

November 16, 2008: Obama's First International Crisis, By Brian Michael Jenkins (The San Diego Union-Tribune)

November 12, 2008: U.S. Department of Defense Faces Obstacles in Meeting Small-Business Contract Goals

November 11, 2008: Talk to the Taliban? Not Now, By Cheryl Benard (United Press International)

November 9, 2008: Know Your Enemy: From Iraq to Afghanistan , By Benjamin Bahney, Renny McPherson (Washington Times)

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How Terrorist Groups End - Lessons for Countering al Qa'ida

All terrorist groups eventually end. But how do they end? The evidence since 1968 indicates that most groups have ended because they joined the political process (43 percent) or local police and intelligence agencies arrested or killed key members (40 percent). Military force has rarely been the primary reason for the end of terrorist groups, and few groups within this time frame have achieved victory.

Final Report

War by Other Means: RAND Counterinsurgency Study -- Final Report

Cover: War by Other Means--Building Complete and Balanced Capabilities for Counterinsurgency

The difficulties encountered by the United States in securing Iraq and Afghanistan despite years of effort and staggering costs raises the central question of the RAND Counterinsurgency Study: How should the United States improve its capabilities to counter insurgencies, particularly those that are heavily influenced by transnational terrorist movements and thus linked into a global jihadist network?

Final Report