Alexei Hoffman

Research Associate, Aerospace Security Project
Alexei Hoffman

Alexei Hoffman is a research associate with the Aerospace Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, where he focuses on military aerospace and unmanned systems policy. A U.S. Army veteran, he served as a forward observer in Afghanistan and later conducted defense training advisory work in Ukraine. His experience spans national security, defense policy, and the defense industry. He holds an MA in Asian studies from Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service and an MA in military affairs from the Citadel Military College of South Carolina. He is fluent in Mandarin and Russian.

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Who Controls Ukraine’s Starlink Access?

A 100 mph speed limit on Starshield terminals hindered Ukraine’s efforts to intercept Russia’s jet-powered drones. The risk of losing access during an attack gives allies another reason to build their own networks instead of buying service from U.S. companies.

Critical Questions by Clayton Swope, Lauryn Williams, and Alexei Hoffman — November 2, 2026

What Is Space Superiority?

What did CENTCOM mean when it declared space superiority over Iran? Joint and Space Force doctrine give different answers, while leaving unresolved who can make that declaration and what evidence is needed to support it.

Critical Questions by Alexei Hoffman — October 5, 2026

Playbook or Rental? U.S. Counter-Drone Defense and the 2026 World Cup

For the 2026 World Cup, the United States built its first nationwide drone defense in months. Whether the country keeps a counter-drone playbook it can carry forward, or returns a six-week rental once the stadiums empty, is the choice it faces the morning after the final.

Commentary by Alexei Hoffman — July 15, 2026