The U.S. government has released its 2025 National Security Strategy, resetting U.S. defense and industrial priorities around maintaining a technological and military edge over China, identified as the nation’s principal strategic and economic competitor.
The strategy, which the White House published on Thursday, highlights need for safeguarding American sovereignty, defending the homeland against military and foreign-influence threats, and preventing adversaries from gaining leverage over U.S. economic and industrial systems. It underscores that peace through strength and robust border security remain central to preserving national stability.
Table of Contents
What Military Capabilities Will the US Strengthen?
To support global deterrence, the strategy directs development of technologically advanced military capabilities, including a modern nuclear deterrent, accelerated defense production and the Golden Dome next-generation missile defense system. The plan further prioritizes leadership in emerging technologies — such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing and autonomous systems — to prevent adversaries from surpassing U.S. capabilities.
These key technologies will be a central focus of Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Defense R&D Summit on Jan. 29! Register now to catch 10 expert panels and four keynotes—a packed day of GovCon defense tech discussion and networking.
How Will Industrial Policy Support Military Readiness?
Under the new strategy, rebuilding the defense industrial base is a key pillar. This includes reshoring critical manufacturing, expanding domestic energy production and reinforcing intellectual property protections. Industrial resilience is presented as foundational to both military readiness and long-term economic security.
What Are the US Regional and Global Priorities?
The document reaffirms U.S. opposition to coercive threats against Taiwan and calls for bolstered deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region. It also maintains U.S. support for achieving stability and a ceasefire in Ukraine, safeguarding global trade routes to ensure access to strategic resources and preserving navigation security.
“This document is a roadmap to ensure that America remains the greatest and most successful nation in human history, and the home of freedom on earth,” U.S. President Donald Trump said. “In the years ahead, we will continue to develop every dimension of our national strength—and we will make America safer, richer, freer, greater, and more powerful than ever before.”
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