World Politics Review special reports are detailed complications of recent WPR articles on a special theme. This report focuses on the effects of sequestration and budget austerity on U.S. national security policy.
Summary: Whether the U.S. defense budget is cut through sequestration or more thoughtfully planned measures, U.S. strategy and America's defense posture will be dramatically impacted over the coming decade by reduced spending on defense and national security. Whether in rebalancing America's strategic focus to the Asia-Pacific region; realigning the force structure of the armed forces, especially the U.S. Army; pursuing counterterrorism and other security priorities; and seeking contributions from allies and partners, American policymakers can no longer ignore cost and budgetary constraints when it comes to shaping U.S. strategy and rightsizing America's global security role.