National Defense Strategy

Definition/Scope: (JP 3-0) A document approved by the Secretary of Defense for applying the Armed Forces of the United States in coordination with Department of Defense agencies and other instruments of national power to achieve national security strategy objectives. OLD VERSION The National Defense Strategy (NDS) outlines the approach to dealing with challenges the United States likely will confront. The intent is to create favorable security conditions around the world and to continue to transform how the U.S. thinks about security, formulate strategic objectives, and adapt to achieve success. This strategy emphasizes the importance of influencing events before challenges become more dangerous and less manageable. It builds upon the 2001 Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) to develop an adaptable, global approach that acknowledges the limits of our intelligence (in all sense of the term), anticipates surprises, and positions us to handle strategic certainty. It seeks to create conditions conducive to respect for the sovereignty of nations and a secure international order favorable to freedom, democracy, and economic opportunity.

Used For:

planning

Acronym:

NDS

Broader Terms:

National Military Strategy
National Security Strategy

Narrower Terms:

Defense Department
DHS
missile defense
national power
SECDEF
Security Force Assistance
Strategic Defense

Related Terms:

20th Support Command
command, control, communications, computers, and information technology
Department of State
DoD Commands
Integrated Global Presence and Basing Strategy
international environment
National Military Strategy
Nuclear Posture Review
Quadrennial Defense Review
Unified Command Plan