Urban warfare has become the predominant form of military conflict in the 21st century, presenting unique tactical challenges and devastating humanitarian consequences.
Global defense spending has reached unprecedented levels in 2026, driven by great power competition, regional conflicts, and the accelerating pace of military technological change.
NATO has undergone its most significant transformation since the Cold War, adapting to new threats including hybrid warfare, cyber attacks, and renewed great power competition.
Great power competition between the United States and China has reemerged as the defining feature of international security, reshaping alliances, defense strategies, and global stability.
The Arctic is emerging as a new front in great power competition, with melting ice caps opening strategic waterways and triggering a military buildup among Arctic nations.