The next administration will face tough choices in aligning strategy, programs, and resources. Strategy has stretched to counter an aggressive Russia, an assertive China, and a ruthless Islamic State while resources have been constrained by the Budget Control Act and competition from domestic programs. Alternative Defense Strategies in a Cost-Capped Environment examines options for strategy and forces in a cost constrained environment. The study identifies five alternative strategies and, using CSIS's Force Cost Calculator, builds a cost-capped force structure, modernization program, and readiness profile for each strategy. It examines the strengths and weaknesses of each strategy against plausible conflict scenarios. The study explores potential ways to mitigate the fiscal pressure forcing these strategic trade-offs. It concludes by making recommendations for the FY 2017 defense budget and the next Quadrennial Defense Review.
