Defense Industrial Base

The CSIS Defense-Industrial Initiatives Group studies the critical issues at the cross-section of the Department of Defense and its industrial base, focusing on defense acquisition trends, technological innovation, security cooperation, and ongoing reform efforts.

Photo: Insung Jeon/Getty Images

Photo: Insung Jeon/Getty Images

Evaluating Pathways for U.S. Shipbuilding Cooperation with Allies

This report examines how deeper cooperation with allies—particularly South Korea and Japan—could help the United States attain the naval capabilities it needs. 

Report by Henry H. Carroll, Cynthia R. Cook, Seamus P. Daniels, and Oliver B. Buntin — August 10, 2026

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Seth G. Jones

Seth G. Jones

President, Defense and Security Department; Harold Brown Chair

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Space Launch Capacity and Contenders | HTK

Please join the CSIS Defense and Security Department’s HTK Series for a conversation about recent developments in U.S. and Chinese space launch capabilities. 

Event — September 9, 2026

U.S. and Allied Burden Sharing: A Progress Report

On this episode of All About the Base, Dr. Jerry McGinn discusses trends in defense spending and procurement across U.S. allies in Europe and East Asia, as well as joint efforts to manufacture munitions, sustain weapons systems, and stabilize critical supply chains. 

Event — September 8, 2026

Strengthening Australia's Weapons Sustainment Ecosystem

On this episode of All About the Base, Dr. Jerry McGinn unpacks the issue of resilience in the Pacific and ways to improve Australia's sustainment ecosystem with Mr. Jed Royal, former Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs.

Event — August 31, 2026

Evaluating Pathways for U.S. Shipbuilding Cooperation with Allies

This report examines how deeper cooperation with allies—particularly South Korea and Japan—could help the United States attain the naval capabilities it needs. 

Report by Henry H. Carroll, Cynthia R. Cook, Seamus P. Daniels, and Oliver B. Buntin — August 10, 2026

Munitions Shortages After Epic Fury

Since Operation Epic Fury began, the United States has expended thousands of advanced munitions. Tom Karako and Mark Cancian discuss the state of U.S. stockpiles, replenishment challenges, and what depleted inventories mean for deterrence, allies, and future conflicts.

Event — August 5, 2026

Six Reasons Why the United States Is Low on Munitions

The Iran war has exacerbated the Pentagon’s shortage of key munitions, but it is not the only cause. There are also longstanding strategic, operational, and institutional reasons.

Commentary by Mark F. Cancian and Chris H. Park — July 31, 2026

What the CMMC Pause Means for the Defense Industrial Base

The Pentagon has paused its contractor cybersecurity certification program amid concerns from small businesses. What does the decision mean, and how can the department strengthen supply chain cybersecurity without imposing unsustainable burdens on smaller contractors?

Critical Questions by Jerry McGinn and Oliver Buntin — July 29, 2026

Japan’s Defense Industry Charts an Uncertain Global Path

With the Mogami frigate sale to Australia and the end of decades-old restrictions, Tokyo's manufacturers are entering the world market as both partner and rival to allied producers —a tension Washington and its friends must now learn to manage.

Commentary by Alek Jovovic and Awais Hanif — July 28, 2026