This article is a general, nonpartisan explainer. It describes the United States unless stated otherwise, and details change over time, so check official sources for the latest.
Governments use strategy documents to explain their security priorities. In the United States, the President issues a National Security Strategy, the Secretary of Defense produces a National Defense Strategy, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff publishes a National Military Strategy. Each has a different audience and level of detail.
Ends, ways, and means
A good strategy links three things: the goals a government wants to achieve (ends), the approaches it will use (ways), and the resources it has (means). When goals outrun resources, planners call this a strategy gap, and they have to either narrow the goals, change the approach, or find more resources.
How a strategy is written
- Officials assess the security environment, including rivals, partners, and technology.
- They set priorities and decide which risks to accept.
- They consult military leaders, other agencies, allies, and Congress.
- They publish a classified version and, often, an unclassified summary.
Why strategy matters
Strategy guides decisions on force structure, spending, and alliances. A strategy that names a priority region, for example, will usually shape where forces are based and which weapons are bought.
How to read one
- Look for what the document says is most important, and what it leaves out.
- Check whether the stated goals match the budget.
- Notice the language about risk. Does it say what the government will not do?
- Compare the document with earlier versions to see what changed.
Strategy documents are statements of intent, not guarantees. Reading them alongside budgets and deployments shows how serious a government is about its stated priorities.
