Driving PME Transformation for the Total Force: CGSS’s Modernization of the ADL Common Core
The U.S. Army Command and General Staff College has overhauled its Asynchronous Distance Learning Common Core, slashing the program from 36 months to 12 months and introducing a three‑phase, scaffolded curriculum. The redesign adds multimodal instruction, cohort advisors, and a partnership with Arizona State University to deliver modern digital content. By centering on Large‑Scale Combat Operations, Multi‑Domain Operations, and Joint All‑Domain Operations, the new ADL‑CC aims to boost MEL‑4 officer throughput and readiness across Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve components. It also tackles historic attrition, policy constraints, and the need for rapid doctrinal updates.
Beyond Swarming: Documenting Harassment, Assault, and ICAD by Chinese Maritime Militia
A new study documents 270 harassment, assault and ICAD incidents by China’s People’s Armed Forces Maritime Militia (PAFMM) in the South China Sea between 2012 and 2025. The research shows that nearly half of these events occurred alongside Chinese Coast...
DOJ Press Conference on Charges Announced Against Chinese Nationals Involved in Sham Marriages
The Department of Justice announced an indictment of eleven individuals accused of operating a marriage‑fraud and bribery ring that targeted U.S. service members, primarily at Jacksonville Naval Air Station. The scheme paired Chinese nationals with servicemen to secure permanent residency,...
2/13/26 National Security and Korean News and Commentary
The Small Wars Journal roundup highlights a surge of geopolitical flashpoints, from the United States covertly shipping thousands of Starlink terminals into Iran and deploying its largest warship to the Middle East, to Germany’s preparation for offensive cyber operations and...
The Role of Foreign Fighters in a Taiwan Resistance Scenario
The article examines how Taiwan could incorporate foreign volunteers into a resistance movement if the island were occupied by the PLA, drawing lessons from Ukraine’s International Legion. It outlines recruitment channels, clandestine infiltration methods, and integration challenges such as language...
Navigating the Complexities of North Korean Strategy: Insights From David Maxwell
Security analyst David Maxwell discussed North Korea’s hybrid strategy, combining conventional forces with social‑warfare tactics, in a recent podcast. He examined the Pentagon’s new report, highlighting its impact on South Korea’s defense posture and the broader alliance framework. Maxwell warned...
Cognitive Warfare to Dominate and Redefine Adversary Realities: Implications for U.S. Special Operations Forces
Cognitive warfare expands conflict into the human mind, targeting perception, judgment, and belief formation. The paper argues the United States is unprepared for adversaries leveraging AI‑driven disinformation, deepfakes, and social‑media algorithms. It highlights China and Iran’s use of cognitive contagions...
Maduro’s Capture and International Law: The Noriega Precedent
U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, prompting comparisons to the 1989 U.S. operation that removed Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega. Scheffer’s brief outlines Justice Department memoranda that justify extraterritorial arrests under a self‑defense rationale against narcotics trafficking. The analysis highlights...
CNAS Podcast | Carney’s Challenge: Can Europe Take the Reins of NATO?
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, speaking at Davos, warned that the international system is experiencing a rupture rather than a gradual transition, urging middle powers to reduce reliance on the United States. He called for diversified partnerships and collective action...
Invitation (2/19/26): Turning OSINT Chaos Into Strategic Clarity | Irregular Warfare Initiative
On February 19, the Irregular Warfare Initiative and CACI DarkBlue will host a half‑day convening in Reston, Virginia titled “Turning OSINT Chaos into Strategic Clarity: Countering Malign Chinese Influence.” The event gathers senior irregular‑warfare practitioners from government, intelligence, and the...
