Category: Defense One

  • Is An Iranian Bomb Now More Or Less Likely?

    Despite bold claims of success, experts warn U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites may only delay—not stop—Iran’s program. With limited monitoring, unclear damage, and few good options, Iran may go underground, retaliate regionally, or quietly rebuild. A new deal may still be the best long-term path.

  • China Is Bringing Gray-Zone Warfare To Space

    China’s recent space actions—like maneuverable satellites and rocket launches—are worrying U.S., Taiwanese, and global experts who believe these may be rehearsals for war. Officials warn China could use space dominance like it does in the South China Sea to control or intimidate others. Taiwan is now using AI to track threats.

  • Four Scenarios For The Middle East

    As Israeli jets strike deep into Iran, tensions escalate with four possible paths ahead: a solo Israel-Iran war, U.S. joining if hit, a UN ceasefire push, or global powers backing Iran. Despite U.S. reluctance, Israel seized a rare moment as regional enemies appeared weakened, aiming to hit Iran’s nuclear and missile assets.

  • Ukraine and The Future of Deception in War

    Winning in modern war depends on more than firepower—it hinges on controlling what the enemy sees and believes. From historic tricks to AI-powered deception in Ukraine, misleading opponents has shaped outcomes. As rivals refine these tactics, Western forces must urgently revive and upgrade their own deception capabilities to stay ahead.

  • Killing Drones Softly

    Killing drones softly is becoming the new defense strategy as the Army shifts focus to safer, smarter ways to bring drones down. Backed by $5 million, Virginia Tech will lead research into non-kinetic tactics like jamming, spoofing and cyber takeovers, helping protect infrastructure while minimizing risk to people and property.

  • Future De-Escalation Much Harder In South Asia

    After 26 were killed in Kashmir, India and Pakistan exchanged missiles, drones, and cyberattacks in a major shift from past flare-ups. A May 10 ceasefire paused tensions, but fading U.S. influence, rising nationalism, and advanced weapons have made future conflicts riskier and harder to control.

  • China’s Turn To Face Transnational Terrorism Now

    China is no longer just warning about terrorism—it’s facing it head-on. Jihadist threats are rising from Syria, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, targeting Chinese nationals, infrastructure, and strategic investments abroad. Attacks by IS-K and Baloch separatists have shaken Beijing, pushing it to expand its security efforts and cooperation globally to protect its interests.

  • US-Europe Divorce Unlikely—Absent A New Crisis

    Fears over Trump’s unpredictability and U.S. reliability have pushed EU leaders to plan defense independence. Despite a shared desire to stay allied, concerns over arms supply disruptions and political rifts are fueling talks. Europe faces industrial and political hurdles in replacing U.S. defense goods.

  • China Is Practicing ‘Dogfighting’ In Space

    China is practicing “dogfighting in space,” where satellites maneuver in coordinated operations, mimicking tactics used in air combat. The U.S. Space Force has observed these maneuvers and warns of increasing space threats, including anti-satellite weapons and hostile tactics. As adversaries close the capability gap, the U.S. is pushing for stronger space defenses.

  • Europe Emerges As Ukraine’s Best Hope

    After a tense meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, U.S. support for Ukraine waned, leaving Europe as the key hope for Ukraine’s peace. European leaders voiced strong support, while critics urged stronger sanctions on Russia. Ukraine now relies on Europe’s aid and leadership as the U.S. shifts focus away from the conflict.