Through polling and research, roundtables, speaking engagements, online events and other public outreach, ASP seeks to improve Americans’ understanding of the security challenges facing the United States, to spur rational and productive dialogue that fosters consensus, and to prescribe substantive, innovative solutions.

A New National Security Strategy

We live in a time when the threats to our security are as complex and diverse as terrorism, the spread of weapons of mass destruction, climate change, failed and failing states and pandemics. Many of these national security challenges will require responses that go beyond military might and utilize all the tools at our disposal. The American Security Project is leading the development of a new national security vision and strategy that will create a New American Arsenal for the twenty-first century that is responsive to the challenges and opportunities we face as a country.

 

Security in the Age of Terrorism

Since September 11, 2001, U.S. counter-terrorism policy has focused largely on the worldwide threat posed by violent jihadists to Americans and American interests. The American Security Project is sponsoring a continuing series of studies and events to examine the threat of Islamist extremism, assess the current approach to that struggle, and prescribe an innovative national strategy for security in an age of terror.

 

America’s Defense Needs

The escalating costs of defense systems, combined with an exceedingly expensive war in Iraq, has created an environment where the United States cannot afford the personnel or equipment it needs for future operations. These shifting realities require a fresh look at planning for America’s defense needs in the twenty-first century. This project focuses on raising public awareness of the challenges facing the U.S. military, identifying America’s defense needs, and proposing solutions that ensure the readiness and safety of our troops.

 

Public Attitudes on National Security

The American public understands the complexities of today’s global challenges. Understanding and articulating American beliefs and values related to U.S. foreign policy and national security is crucial to creating effective policy that builds consensus. The American Security Project is dedicated to monitoring American attitudes on national security issues and engaging the public in an ongoing dialogue about the full range of solutions, their possible benefits and likely consequences