International Security Program

The CSIS International Security Program (ISP) is a constant source of reliable analysis on the international security and defense landscape, particularly with growing competition between the United States and such countries as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea


About Us

Learn more about the CSIS International Security Program, our goals, and our primary areas of research.

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ISP About Us


Meet Our Experts

Meet our network of experts, staff, and non-resident affiliates who contribute to our analysis.

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Seth G. Jones


Explore our Research

The CSIS International Security Program leads a rigorous analytic agenda covering the most pressing challenges facing the U.S. globally. Our research projects range from multi-year reports to short commentaries and opinion pieces on breaking news. Explore our various research projects here.

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Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images


Contact

Media Queries

Recent Analysis


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Photo: James/Adobe Stock. Image was generated with AI.

Photo: James/Adobe Stock. Image was generated with AI.

High-Altitude Nuclear Explosions: Myths and Reality

What would happen if a nuclear weapon detonated in the sky, not on the ground? Would there be survivors? Would your iPhone work? This briefing dispels common misconceptions about high-altitude nuclear explosions and summarizes the current state of research on the subject.

Brief by Scott Pence and Adam F. Reynolds — July 14, 2025