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: DANIEL SLIM/AFP via Getty Images

Photo: DANIEL SLIM/AFP via Getty Images

What to Expect from Secretary Hegseth’s November 7 Speech on the Arsenal of Freedom

Secretary Hegseth’s upcoming “Arsenal of Freedom” address signals a possible historic shift in U.S. defense acquisition and the industrial base—aimed at undoing decades of consolidation, revitalizing industrial capacity, and reforming how the Pentagon delivers capabilities to the warfighter.

Commentary by Jerry McGinn — November 5, 2025

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Seth G. Jones

Seth G. Jones

President, Defense and Security Department; Harold Brown Chair

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What to Expect from Secretary Hegseth’s November 7 Speech on the Arsenal of Freedom

Secretary Hegseth’s upcoming “Arsenal of Freedom” address signals a possible historic shift in U.S. defense acquisition and the industrial base—aimed at undoing decades of consolidation, revitalizing industrial capacity, and reforming how the Pentagon delivers capabilities to the warfighter.

Commentary by Jerry McGinn — November 5, 2025

Congressional Perspectives on Maritime Security

Please join the CSIS Defense and Security Department (DSD) and the U.S. Naval Institute (USNI) for a Maritime Security Dialogue event featuring Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT).

Event — October 7, 2025

How Does the Government Shutdown Impact the U.S. Industrial Base?

The government shutdown will have a substantial impact on the industrial base. While work will continue on contracts that are already funded, no new obligations of funds are permitted unless tied to an excepted activity. 

Critical Questions by Jerry McGinn, Katy Buda, and Audrey Aldisert — October 6, 2025

Adversaries and the Future of Competition

China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea have increased security cooperation in arms sales, military exercises, and the industrial base, though there are limits. Bilateral cooperation is likely to increase in the future, which has major implications for the future of warfare.

Commentary by Seth G. Jones — September 16, 2025

Power Projection and the Logistics of Modern War

Logistics, including supply chains, industrial capacity, and transportation networks, will be contested in future wars. Deterrence and operational effectiveness depend on sustaining readiness through protracted conflict.

Commentary by Cynthia R. Cook — September 16, 2025