Seven Defense Priorities for the New Administration

This report summarizes the main findings and recommendations of reports published by the Defense Science Board for the Secretary of Defense during the last dozen years. The purpose of this effort is to aid the incoming Administration to make a fast start in addressing pressing national security issues and opportunities. While the topics that have been addressed span a wide range, seven major themes dominated the Board's considerations: protecting the homeland; deterring the use of nuclear weapons; preparing for gray zone conflicts; maintaining information superiority; anticipating intelligent systems and autonomy; supporting stabilization, reconstruction, peacekeeping, and nation building; preparing for surprise.