Reshaping America's Military: Four Alternatives

A Council Policy Initiative

July 1, 2002

Report

Overview

In the wake of the September 11 attacks and the ensuing war on terrorism, the United States began a massive buildup in its defense budget. There was little public debate, however, about the possible alternatives to the sweeping budget increases proposed by the Bush administration. Written as presidential speeches, this book lays out the best case for four different options, each of which could serve as the organizing principle for future U.S. defense plans and budgets.

Lawrence J. Korb

Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress, Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress

The speeches, written by leading national security expert and Council Fellow Lawrence Korb, are preceded by a memo that explains the strengths, weaknesses, and politics of each alternative. A useful guide for teachers, students, and the general reader interested in defense, this book illuminates an issue that will continue to play a prominent role in the national conversation.

More on:

Budget, Debt, and Deficits

Defense and Security

United States

9/11

Download the addendum to this report [PDF].

More on:

Budget, Debt, and Deficits

Defense and Security

United States

9/11

Top Stories on CFR

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

An impending Israeli ground invasion of Rafah could threaten more than a million civilians seeking refuge in the city and further restrict humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

Maldives

Once a close Indian partner, the Maldives is now aligning more with China. Is the island nation becoming a flash point in the China-India relationship? 

Public Health Threats and Pandemics

A global surge in avian flu outbreaks in birds and some mammals is worrying poultry farmers, scientists, and health experts. The trend is provoking questions about the future of the disease and global public health.