NIDS invites you to Join us for the Fifth Annual Nuclear Triad Symposium on June 18th in person or virtually. The Symposium will take place on June 18, 2026, in the University Center Ballroom at Louisiana State University Shreveport. Full agenda can be found in the registration links below. In partnership with BRF, this year’s symposium will examine the critical role of the Nuclear Triad as the foundation of U.S. national security, with presentations and discussions focused on the current strategic environment, force readiness, nuclear modernization, and the evolving role of deterrence in global competition. Speakers will include senior officials and subject matter experts from Air Force Global Strike Command, 8th Air Force, the 307th Bomb Wing at nearby Barksdale Air Force Base, 20th Air Force, Navy Strategic Systems Programs, and the Navy’s Program Executive Office for Strategic Submarines. In person registration: ce.lsus.edu/coursedisplay.cf… ZOOM registration: ce.lsus.edu/coursedisplay.cf… @LSU_Shreveport @usairforce @AFGlobalStrike @security_wonk @SmallBCC

In this episode of The NIDS View, Jim returns to join Curtis as they explore China’s ongoing nuclear buildup, including newly identified octagonal facilities and 80 launch pads near the Hami missile fields. The conversation explores what these developments reveal about Beijing’s strategic intentions, including the concept of dynamic parity and the role of ambiguity in deterrence. What kind of nuclear force is China building—and how should the United States respond? 🎧 Watch/listen now: lnkd.in/eyvKVRz6 #Deterrence #NuclearStrategy #China #IndoPacific #MissileDefense #NationalSecurity #TheNIDSView @security_wonk @SmallBCC

NIDS Presents a New Release! Our new book is a must-read on Nuclear Deterrence. Learning to Love the Bomb: Understanding the American Nuclear Arsenal brings together leading experts and practitioners to break down one of the most complex—and often misunderstood—elements of U.S. national security. This timely volume explores: 💠 How nuclear deterrence actually works 💠 The strengths and vulnerabilities of the U.S. nuclear triad 💠 The evolving capabilities of China, Russia, and North Korea 💠 Why a credible nuclear deterrent remains essential to global stability Organized across building, deploying, assessing, and sustaining the arsenal, the book offers a clear and accessible framework for understanding both strategy and policy. 👉 Order your copy here: lnkd.in/eZ4BTpWv Authors Include: Curtis McGiffin Adam Lowther WALLACE T. (Wally) CLARK III, Ph.D. James Petrosky John Swegle Alexis Schlotterback Derek Williams Kirk Fansher Peter Huessy Carl Rhodes Matthew Sweeney Todd Clawson Douglas Shahan Jeffrey Larsen Stephen Blank Mica Hall Alex Littlefield Chun In-Bum Jonathan Trexel @SmallBCC @AFGlobalStrike #Deterrence #NuclearStrategy #NationalSecurity #DefensePolicy #StrategicStudies #USMilitary #GlobalSecurity #NIDS

USAF’s primary fighter fleet dipped below the minimum allowable size under law this year—is a “call to action” for the nation to reinvest in its airpower. An undersized air force lacks the sufficient firepower to deter, defend, or compel. airandspaceforces.com/air-fo…

"By reintroducing US theater nuclear forces first in South Korea, and then more gradually in Japan, Washington can reassure its anxious allies and bolster its own national security interests, argue Kyle Balzer and Robert Peters." breakingdefense.com/2026/06/…

Would adding U.S. Nukes in more NATO nations actually reassure an alliance that doesn't want American support anymore? cnbc.com/2026/06/02/nuclear-…

What does Turkey’s new long-range missile signal about the future of deterrence—and alliance dynamics? In this latest Global Security Review article, Col. Curtis McGiffin (USAF, Ret.) argues that Turkey’s missile ambitions reflect something bigger: A deliberate shift toward strategic autonomy, defense self-sufficiency, and independent power projection. Turkey is no longer positioning itself solely as NATO’s southeastern flank—it is evolving into a regional power aiming to shape outcomes across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Investments in long-range strike capabilities, domestic defense industry, and even space launch infrastructure all point in the same direction. At its core, this raises a critical question for policymakers: How should allies adapt when partners pursue greater independence in strategic capabilities? Read the full article: Turkey’s ICBM: Ambition for Autonomy — Global Security Review #Deterrence #NATO #MissileDefense #StrategicCompetition #NationalSecurity #Turkey #GSR #thinkdeterrence #DeterrenceMatters @security_wonk @SmallBCC

As we reflect during Deterrence Matters Month, this insight from ADM Mies highlights a critical truth: deterrence is not limited to nuclear strategy—it underpins the prevention of conflict across all domains. Effective deterrence requires more than capability. It demands credible strategy, clear communication, and sustained commitment to stability in an increasingly complex global environment. From conventional conflict to emerging threats, deterrence remains the foundation for preserving peace and avoiding escalation. At NIDS, we are dedicated to advancing the education and dialogue needed to strengthen deterrence across the full spectrum of challenges. If you believe in the importance of preventing conflict before it begins, we invite you to support our mission. 🔗 Learn more: NIDS Home - National Institute for Deterrence Studies #DeterrenceMatters #NIDS #NationalSecurity #StrategicStability #Defense #PeaceThroughStrength #GlobalSecurity #ThinkDeterrence

Kirk and Curtis discuss how Europe is grappling with its security strategy amidst fears of abandonment by the U.S. and the urgency to include Ukraine in the fold. This conversation reveals the shifting landscape of international alliances and the importance of a unified front in the face of adversity. What do you think? Could CALM be the solution Europe needs? Full episode -  youtu.be/0qUzjCOAdf4 #NATO #CALMinitiative #InternationalRelations #DefenseStrategy #Ukraine #deterrecemattersmonth #ThinkDeterrence @security_wonk @SmallBCC

In this week's episode of The NIDS View, we dive into the CALM initiative—a bold proposal for a coalition of like-minded nations within NATO. With changing dynamics, Europe must step up its defense game, especially as tensions with Russia escalate. Kirk and Curtis discuss how Europe is grappling with its security strategy amidst fears of abandonment by the U.S. and the urgency to include Ukraine in the fold. This conversation reveals the shifting landscape of international alliances and the importance of a unified front in the face of adversity. What do you think? Could CALM be the solution Europe needs? Full episode - youtu.be/0qUzjCOAdf4 #NATO #CALMinitiative #InternationalRelations #DefenseStrategy #Ukraine #deterrecemattersmonth #ThinkDeterrence @SmallBCC @security_wonk

Deterrence doesn’t happen by accident—it requires informed leaders, rigorous analysis, and continuous dialogue. As we close out Deterrence Matters Month here at the National Institute for Deterrence Studies (NIDS), we connect experts, educate future leaders, and advance the ideas that help prevent conflict and preserve peace. 👉 Follow our page to stay informed and be part of the conversation shaping strategic stability. 👉 Donate Today: Donate - National Institute for Deterrence Studies #ThinkDeterrence #DeterrenceMatters #NationalSecurity #StrategicStability #PeaceThroughStrength @SmallBCC @security_wonk

Trump’s Nuclear Review--a must read! some basic guideposts which we would urge the Pentagon to take into account as it proceeds with this review. realcleardefense.com/article…

Turkey’s ICBM: Ambition for Autonomy...Turkey’s declared goal to develop long-range ballistic capabilities, including at Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) levels, demands America’s full attention. globalsecurityreview.com/tur…

Today, on National Aviation Maintenance Technician Day (May 24), we recognize the professionals who quietly ensure the safety, reliability, and operational readiness of our aerospace capabilities. From the earliest days of aviation—when Charles E. Taylor built the engine that powered the Wright Brothers’ first flight—to today’s complex global security environment, maintenance and sustainment have remained foundational to mission success. 🔷 Deterrence depends not only on advanced capabilities, but on the people who keep them operational 🔷 Whether supporting civil aviation or maintaining critical military platforms, aviation maintenance technicians play a vital role in ensuring readiness, preserving strategic advantage, and strengthening deterrence. During Deterrence Matters Month, NIDS recognizes that credible deterrence is built on more than technology—it is sustained by expertise, precision, and dedication behind the scenes. 👉 Join us in thanking the professionals who keep systems ready, missions viable, and deterrence credible. #DeterrenceMatters #NIDS #NationalSecurity #Aviation #Readiness #Defense #ThinkDeterrence @security_wonk @SmallBCC

Deterrence begins in the mind. Capabilities matter—but they only succeed when they shape an adversary’s perception, decision-making, and risk calculus. Without that understanding, even the most advanced systems may fail to deter. 🔷 Effective deterrence requires insight, not assumption🔷 May is Deterrence Matters Month at NIDS—a time to explore how strategy, perception, and psychology intersect to maintain stability in an evolving security environment. 👉 Join us as we continue advancing informed deterrence dialogue. thinkdeterrence.com/donate/ #DeterrenceMatters #NIDS #StrategicStability #NationalSecurity #Deterrence #ThinkDeterrence @security_wonk @SmallBCC

Deterrence is not static—it evolves with the character of conflict. As new domains emerge and technologies shift the balance between precision and scale, the question is no longer if deterrence must adapt—but how fast we can keep pace. Today’s deterrence environment demands a deeper understanding of how conventional and strategic capabilities interact—and where future gaps may emerge. May is Deterrence Matters Month at NIDS—a time to examine how deterrence must evolve to remain credible, effective, and stabilizing in a rapidly changing security landscape. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of deterrence. thinkdeterrence.com/donate/ #DeterrenceMatters #NIDS #StrategicStability #NationalSecurity #EmergingThreats #Deterrence #ThinkDeterrence #PeaceThroughStrength #DeterrenceEducation

More than seven decades later, this stark observation still resonates. Deterrence has long been a cornerstone of strategic stability—shaping decisions, preventing conflict, and preserving freedom in moments of profound uncertainty. Deterrence is not just history—it remains essential today. As global challenges evolve, so too must our understanding of what it takes to sustain credible, effective deterrence. May is Deterrence Matters Month at NIDS—a time to reflect on the enduring importance of deterrence and to engage with the ideas, leaders, and conversations shaping its future. 👉 Join us as we continue advancing informed dialogue on the most critical national security issues of our time. #DeterrenceMatters #NIDS #StrategicStability #NationalSecurity #Deterrence #HistoryMat #ThinkDeterrence @security_wonk #donate

We often focus on Russia, Ukraine, or the Middle East—but overlook a critical player shaping global security. Watch Curtis McGiffin and Kirk Fansher this week on The NIDS View. As Kirk Fansher notes: “It doesn’t pay to ignore what’s going on in Turkey… it’s a country that is growing and becoming a more influential player—and they’re making sure they’re not ignored.” Watch full episode: youtu.be/3YqCBuV0vTc Our podcast insights are one example of what drives our mission at the National Institute for Deterrence Studies (NIDS)—to broaden the strategic lens and strengthen understanding of deterrence in an increasingly complex world. May is Deterrence Matters Month at NIDS—a time to highlight why informed, forward-looking deterrence thinking is more important than ever. thinkdeterrence.com/donate/ 👉 Join us, engage with our experts, and support the work that keeps these critical conversations moving forward. #DeterrenceMatters #NIDS #NationalSecurity #Geopolitics #Turkey #StrategicStability #thinkdeterrence @security_wonk #podcast

Just announced.... In person event in Washington D. C. Rear Admiral Weeks is a career submarine officer and senior acquisition leader with extensive experience across undersea warfare and strategic submarine programs. He commanded USS ALEXANDRIA (SSN 757) and has held key leadership roles including Program Executive Officer for Strategic Submarines and Undersea Warfare Systems. He currently serves as Director, In-Service Submarines and Industrial Base. Register here: forms.office.com/r/Gpg6uCNtJ… #DeterrenceMatters #NIDS #HuessySeminar #ThinkDeterrence #NationalSecurity #StrategicStability #NuclearDeterrence #DefensePolicy #SecurityStudies #Geopolitics #Deterrence @USNavy #LeadershipDialogue @security_wonk @SmallBCC