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Military Doctrine

Research conducted by: RAND Arroyo Center; RAND Project AIR FORCE; RAND National Security Research Division; RAND Europe

Commentary (10)

How Would Iran Fight Back? — Oct 1, 2012

Iranian leaders are well aware that they cannot defeat the U.S. military in a face-to-face conflict. But as Hezbollah's 2006 war with Israel demonstrated, battlefield losses (or draws) can be turned into psychological victories, writes Alireza Nader.

Commentary

History Shows Danger of Arbitrary Defense Cuts — Nov 23, 2011

As America embarks on a tough strategic journey in the aftermath of Iraq, and contends with an ailing economy, it is wise to be mindful of the difference between hope and fact, writes Paula G. Thornhill.

Commentary

Countering the Military's Latest Fad: Counterinsurgency — May 17, 2009

When Defense Secretary Gates announced that he was dismissing Gen. McKiernan as the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan and replacing him with Lt. Gen. McChrystal, he signaled his support for an intellectual movement that in a few short years has come to dominate military thinking in Washington, writes Celeste Ward.

Commentary

A New National Strategy for Korea: North Korea Threats Require Deterrence, Reconciliation — Mar 13, 2008

The new Korean government should fully recognize the North Korean military threats and respond by fielding military counters against dangerous North Korean military capabilities, writes Bruce Bennett.

Commentary

Ad Men for U.S. Defense — Aug 20, 2007

Improving the U.S. military's brand identity demands more than just a catchy new slogan. While communications can help explain U.S. policies, the behavior of every soldier, sailor, airman and marine is what ultimately determines how civilians view U.S. forces, write Todd Helmus, Russell Glenn and Christopher Paul in a commentary appearing in United Press International.

Commentary

Lessons from the Past for Iraq's Future — Jul 23, 2004

Published commentary by RAND staff.

Commentary

Swarming -- The Next Face of Battle — Sep 29, 2003

Technological advances often give rise to new types of weapons, but the achievement of lasting breakthroughs in fighting power requires organizational and doctrinal innovation as we.