Category: Capabilities

Cybersecurity Priorities: Aligning Defense Resources with Critical Missions

In the increasingly complex domain of national defense, effectively prioritizing cybersecurity resources is a critical yet challenging endeavor. With finite resources, the fundamental question facing the Department of Defense (DoD) becomes clear: What constitutes reasonable cybersecurity?

07

May

Acquisition Portfolio and Program ManagementCapabilitiesFellowsFocus - SPA Perspectives

From Overconfidence to Realism: Overcoming Bias in Early Cost Forecasting

Navigating the complex landscape of program cost estimation requires confronting hidden biases that threaten budgets, timelines, and ultimately mission success. Accurate cost estimating is critical for defense programs aiming to deliver on time, within budget, and with the capabilities needed for today’s warfighter. Yet, cost estimation—especially early in the acquisition process—is often un

24

Apr

CapabilitiesFocus - SPA Perspectives

Mission-Driven Messaging: The Power of Strategic Communications

SPA is committed to providing innovative solutions to the most challenging national security problems facing the U.S. and our allies. In the high-stakes world of national defense, how well you communicate about your mission is vital to long-term success.

26

Mar

CapabilitiesFellowsFocus - SPA PerspectivesProfessional DevelopmentSPA Community and CultureStrategy, Policy, and Doctrine Development

Fostering the Next Generation of Nuclear Analysts: SPA’s Nuclear Analyst Community of Interest

Ensuring the credibility and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear deterrent requires not only technical expertise and strategic foresight but also a commitment to developing the next generation of nuclear analysts. At Systems Planning and Analysis (SPA), this responsibility is embodied in the Nuclear Analyst Community of Interest (COI), founded and led by Tom Troyano, SPA’s Fellow for Nuclear Moder

26

Mar

Acquisition Portfolio and Program ManagementAI/ML and Decision AnalyticsCapabilitiesFocus - SPA PerspectivesFuture Force AssessmentModeling, Simulation, and AnalysisNational Security and Infrastructure ProtectionSoftware, Cyber, and Cloud ComputingStrategy, Policy, and Doctrine DevelopmentSystems Engineering and IntegrationTrends

Navigating the Future of Defense: Key Trends Shaping National Security

The national security landscape is shifting rapidly. Advances in technology, evolving geopolitical tensions, and the increasing complexity of modern warfare are challenging long-standing defense strategies. For senior military and government leaders, the challenge is not just keeping pace but staying ahead—anticipating change before it arrives and preparing accordingly.

26

Mar

CapabilitiesFellowsFocus - SPA PerspectivesFuture Force Assessment

Shaping the Future of Force Design and Structure in an Era of Rapid Technological Change

In an age where technology evolves at a breakneck pace, military strategies must adapt to maintain relevance and effectiveness. The Marine Corps’ Force Design 2030 (FD2030) initiative represents a bold step forward—not just in acquiring cutting-edge technologies but in creating an integrated, systems-oriented approach to warfare. 