Krista Auchenbach

Visiting Fellow, Defense and Security Department
Krista Auchenbach

Krista Auchenbach is a visiting fellow from the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) in the Defense and Security Department at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Previously, she was the Deputy Director of the Campaign Decision Support Team in OSD and the Division Chief for Strategic Assessments at Headquarters Air Force A5/7, where she provided strategic analysis to senior leaders. Prior to these roles, she served as a senior advisor, strategist, and country director for various portfolios within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy from 2008 until 2020. She is a term member with the Council on Foreign Relations and was a 2020 Next Generation Fellow with the Center for a New American Security. Ms. Auchenbach has a BA in international affairs and an MA in security policy studies from George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs, where she also serves as part-time faculty.

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Insights for Future Conflicts from the Russia-Ukraine War

The Russia-Ukraine conflict shocked the world, unfolding a story of adaptation, resilience, and innovation with global implications. Drawing from analysis and news coverage, this report distills 10 insights that will shape the next war.  

Digital Report by Krista Auchenbach, Nathan Lewis, Scott Murphy, Quinton Packard, Scott Pence, Luke Slivinski, and Matthew Slusher — May 8, 2025

Conflict in Focus: Lessons from Russia-Ukraine

The Russia-Ukraine War has redefined modern conflict, from drones and cyberattacks to contested space. Conflict in Focus, a CSIS series, unpacks key lessons across all domains of war—insights vital for anticipating and preparing for future large-scale conflicts.

Report by Matthew Slusher, Krista Auchenbach, Scott Murphy, Quinton Packard, Scott Pence, and Luke Slivinski — May 2, 2025

Space and Data Domain Lessons from Russia-Ukraine | Conflict in Focus

The war in Ukraine has demonstrated significant strides in data technology and the integration of commercial capabilities and services in warfighting. This week's 'Conflict in Focus' episode will feature a discussion examine the role of space and data capabilities in the changing character of war.

Event — April 10, 2025