Section: RAND (USA)
The Russian Air Force Is Hollowing Itself Out. Air Defenses for Ukraine Would Speed That Up
The Russian Aerospace Forces has fewer than 650 tactical aircraft when accounting for end-of-life aircraft; it has even less when accounting for accelerated usage. But these numbers are unlikely to change Russia’s behavior, based on its exhibited willingness to accept high losses, even for trivial gains. …read more Source::...
What Sweden’s Accession Means for NATO
Russia’s failed invasion of Ukraine pushed neutral Sweden to embrace a role in Europe and NATO’s collective defence and security. With the addition of its 32nd Member, NATO’s toolkit gains Sweden’s ground and air combat, nearshore and undersea warfare capabilities, as well as the country’s expertise in niche areas...
Pace Through Integration? UK Defence Attempts Procurement Reform, Again
The Ukraine war has exposed a challenge: how can allies gear their defence industries up to deliver materiel to Ukraine while remaining fit for purpose at home? By introducing a new integrated procurement model, the UK Ministry of Defence aims to consciously integrate lessons learned from past programmes—successful and otherwise. …read more...
Help Ukraine Win—or Risk Kicking Off a U.S. Losing Streak
Continued assistance to Ukraine is critical if the United States is to retain its position as the world’s indispensable nation and the many benefits Americans enjoy as a result. Failing to support Ukraine now might kick off an American losing streak that could take decades to overcome. …read more Source::...
Bolstering Ukraine’s Irregular War Against Russia
As Ukrainian forces assume a more defensive posture, Kyiv’s irregular warfare behind enemy lines becomes even more important. Ukrainian irregulars are already active, even striking distant targets in Russia. With Western support and technology, these silent warriors could become even more potent. …read more Source::...
As Europe’s Peace Unravels, Czech Republic Ties Its Defence More Tightly to NATO
The Czech Republic’s new defence strategy emphasises its commitment to its allies and Ukraine at a time when the cohesion of the Western Alliance is being challenged by both domestic and external factors. …read more Source::...
Breaking the Logjam: How to Start a Process That Leads to Negotiations
It is too early to begin real talks between Russia and Ukraine. And Kyiv would have to be in the lead when they begin. But all parties should take steps now to bring about the possibility of talks in the future. …read more Source::...
Moscow’s History of Unforced Errors Is the West’s Hidden Advantage
In challenging the West, Russia often shoots itself in the foot. It has done so again with the murder of Alexei Navalny on the cusp of a Ukraine vote in Congress. While policymakers cannot count on Russian blunders continuing, it’s worth considering the number of unforced errors Moscow has committed over the years and their consequences....
China Looks to Ukraine War for Guidance on Attack Helicopters
Chinese strategists continue to be quite fixated on Russian attack helicopter operations in Ukraine. Helicopters appear to be at the very heart of any Chinese strategy to conquer Taiwan, since they can provide both extensive air cover and firepower for amphibious forces coming ashore and provide transport capabilities to deliver forces further...
Air Defense Shapes Warfighting in Ukraine
The strength of air and missile defense in Ukraine has abetted the stalemate in the ground war. Its weakness has led to immense human suffering and infrastructure damage. As the war continues, air defense could become even more salient. …read more Source::...
