Defense
The Secretary of Defense and the Chain of Command, Explained
The Pentagon inspector general is investigating after Lloyd Austin’s recent hospitalization.
Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s Military Holdup, Explained
Is the blockade of confirmations and promotions hurting military preparedness?
Ukraine Looks Long-Range and Long-Term
To bring the fight to Russia, Kyiv eyes building up its own defense industry.
Chinese and Russian Naval Patrol Nears Alaskan Coast
‘It seems obvious to me that Xi Jinping is preparing his country for war.’
The Military’s Recruiting Crisis
Defense officials are trying to figure out how to reverse projected shortfalls for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Biden Withholds Weapons That Could Help Ukraine Win the War
Cluster munitions are controversial, but the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Taiwan Needs Our Help Now
A missile contract that won’t be fulfilled until 2029 demonstrates that our foreign military sales program is unacceptably slow.
Inside the GOP Fight Over Ukraine Aid
Will Republicans continue to support the embattled nation?
An (Unidentified Flying) Object Lesson
If we’re not being invaded by aliens, what’s going on? A Dispatch Explainer.
A Bold Vision for Japan
The country’s military buildup reflects a sense of urgency about the China threat. But implementing it will be a challenge.
Congress Moves Forward With Defense Policy Bill
It includes assistance for Taiwan, weapons supply chain boosts, and a ban on Chinese semiconductor chips.
The Mystery of the Missing Nuclear Posture Review
The document, one of our most important national policy statements, has been completed. But our allies are waiting for an unclassified version.
Is the Pentagon at Risk of Running Out of Weapons?
A new GAO report shows decline in our industrial base.
What We Must Do to Help Ukraine Win
The emphasis should be on a punishing counteroffensive to help Ukraine win quickly.