Countering Threats and Challenges Program

We help U.S. government leaders understand and counter threats and challenges from medium powers and unconventional actors. Our experts on North Korea, Iran and the Middle East, Africa, South and Central Asia, and Latin America have conducted primary research and provided on-site support in more than 40 countries.

Strategic Stability and the Ukraine War

The Russia‑Ukraine war marks the first instance of a major inter‑state war involving the large‑scale deployment and use of conventional ballistic and cruise missile technology. In this analysis, long‑range strike weapons conventional cruise and ballistic missiles as well as conventional long‑range drones have been used by both sides to engage targets at standoff range, including deep inside the adversary’s homeland territory.

An Information Campaign to Deter a Nuclear North Korea

Analysis by CNA’s senior expert on North Korea, Ken Gause, explains why weaker powers have shown unexpected resistance to U.S. pressure campaigns, increasing the potential for crisis and miscalculation. The unique characteristics of asymmetric relations suggest that Washington should re-examine its engagement with North Korea.

Maritime Sabotage: Lessons Learned and Implications for Strategic Competition

U.S. special operations forces have little experience in maritime sabotage, despite a long history of operations to secretly destroy enemy war infrastructure. This analysis of 21 historical maritime sabotage operations draws lessons for future conflicts.

New Leadership for a New Generation

While some aspects of US Special Operations Forces’ leadership approach align well with what younger generations expect, critical gaps remain. Researchers recommend ways to address this issue so that SOF can best develop its future leaders.

Next Generation Leadership and Implications for Special Operations Forces

NEW LEADERSHIP FOR A NEW GENERATION

articles

podcasts

reports

Explore more

Contact

David Knoll, Ph.D., Research Program Director

knolld@cna.org