PUBLICATIONS BY Jack Spencer
Research
Commentary
Books
Media Appearances
2008 Research
December 16, 2008
Protectionism Won't Fuel a Nuclear Renaissance
By Jack Spencer and Daniella Markheim
(Backgrounder #2221)
Expansion of nuclear power will result in increased demand for uranium. Growing fuel markets will create the environment that can sustain new enrichment capacity; artificially protecting domestic suppliers will not. The U.S. needs a domestic supplier of enriched uranium for national security purposes. The U.S. and Russia must continue to convert Russian weapons-grade uranium for use in peaceful power reactors.
December 08, 2008
Making Domestic Energy Affordable: A Memo to President-elect Obama
By Ben Lieberman and Jack Spencer
(Special Report #31)
President-elect Obama, throughout the campaign, you pledged to find ways to provide relief for the rising energy prices that affect millions of American households and businesses. This was a leading issue for voters, especially during the summer when gasoline exceeded $4.00 a gallon.
November 10, 2008
Washington Subsidies Not Necessary to Rebuild U.S. Nuclear Industry
By Jack Spencer and Nicolas D. Loris
(Backgrounder #2207)
The private sector has already begun to invest in the nuclear industry without federal government subsidies. Congress should take steps that promote industrial independence, not create dependency that is inherently incompatible with long-term business planning. The federal government should concentrate on establishing a regulatory environment that is conducive to commercial nuclear growth, overhauling the spent nuclear fuel management regime, and opening foreign markets.
September 15, 2008
Time to Fast-track New Nuclear Reactors
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #2062)
Many in Congress have begun to realize that the nation’s energy, economic, security, and environmental objectives cannot be met without nuclear power. Instituting a program to fast-track the notoriously arduous process of permitting new nuclear plants would demonstrate Congress’ commitment to nuclear power and provide the regulatory stability that investors need to grow the industry.
September 08, 2008
Grading the Gang of 10's Nuclear Energy Proposal
By Jack Spencer and Nicolas Loris
(WebMemo #2053)
Although the Gang of 10's energy plan has been subject to a great deal of criticism, they should be applauded for their bipartisan efforts to restore the nuclear energy industry in the U.S. But it is important to distinguish the good nuclear policy from the bad. Overall, the G-16 proposals need improvement.
July 29, 2008
Saving the NPT and the Nonproliferation Regime in an Era of Nuclear Renaissance
By Jack Spencer
(Testimony #9999)
Testimony before the
House Committee on Foreign Affairs,
Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade
July 02, 2008
Nuclear Energy: What We Can Learn From Other Nations
By Nicolas Loris and Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #1977)
With energy supplies at a premium, it's even more imperative that the U.S. look overseas for ideas on how to use nuclear energy safely and economically.
June 23, 2008
A Free-Market Approach to Managing Used Nuclear Fuel
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #2149)
A Free-Market Approach to Managing Used Nuclear Fuel
June 19, 2008
Critics of Nuclear Power's Costs Miss the Point
By Jack Spencer and Nick Loris
(WebMemo #1961)
Carbon-capping legislation and recent studies that conclude that a massive build-up of nuclear power is needed to minimize the negative economic impact of CO2 caps have spurred several high-profile articles on the costs of nuclear energy. One such article notes that estimated construction costs for nuclear power plants and the overall costs of nuclear power have increased significantly since 2000 and espouses wind power, solar power, and energy efficiency as alternatives to new nuclear plants.
June 02, 2008
Nuclear Power Needed to Minimize Lieberman-Warner's Economic Impact
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #1944)
Anxiety over human-induced global warming is driving the debate over energy policy. The Lieberman–Warner climate change bill (S. 2191) is the political manifestation of this fear.
May 15, 2008
Russia 123 Agreement: Not Ready for Primetime
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #1926)
Though intended to help consumers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the ethanol mandate has done just the opposite, contributing to high food and gas prices with little environmental benefit. Representative Jeff Flake (R–AZ) has introduced H.R. 5911, the Remove Incentives for Producing Ethanol Act of 2008, which would eliminate the mandate and other benefits for ethanol, and other measures may soon be introduced.
May 01, 2008
Yucca Mountain Remains Critical to Spent Nuclear Fuel Management
By Jack Spencer and Nicolas Loris
(Backgrounder #2131)
Nuclear energy can be clean, safe, and affordable, but managing spent nuclear fuel has been a political sticking point for the advancement of nuclear energy in the United States. Yucca Mountain is crucial to resolving the issue of spent nuclear fuel, but a more practical and comprehensive approach would include a combination of interim storage, recycling, and geological storage.
April 18, 2008
Nuclear Power Critical to Meeting President's Greenhouse Gas Objectives
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #1898)
On April 16, President George W. Bush established a national goal to stop the growth of greenhouse gas emissions by 2025. His plan would first slow, then stop and reverse the rate of emissions of CO2 and other so-called greenhouse gases. The President placed much of the onus of meeting these objectives on the electricity generation industry. While wind, solar, and clean-coal technologies may eventually affordably contribute to the nation’s production of emissions-free power, the best way to achieve the President's vision today is through nuclear power.
March 25, 2008
Uranium Mining Is Important for Securing America's Energy Future
By Jack Spencer and Nick Loris
(WebMemo #1866)
As nuclear power expands, it will be critical that uranium resources are accessible when mining can be done in a safe and economical way.
March 19, 2008
Finland's Rational Approach to Nuclear Power
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #2117)
The U.S. should learn from Finland that nuclear power can be important in reconciling the desire to reduce pollution with the need to remain economically competitive, recognize the role that nuclear power can play in meeting America’s energy requirements, and follow the Finnish example of how to move from talking about nuclear power to actually building nuclear power plants.
March 06, 2008
Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2008: Modernizing Spent Fuel Management in the U.S.
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #2113)
The Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 does not provide the clarifications, authorization, and flexibility needed to move nuclear power forward in the United States. The Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2008 would take some significant steps in addressing these problems, but in the end, the nation may need a complete overhaul of its approach to spent nuclear fuel.
2007 Research
December 06, 2007
Energy Bill Must Not Exclude Nuclear from CO2 Fix
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #1724)
Legislation that aims to reduce carbon emissions should set the target and allow the market to determine the best way forward.
December 03, 2007
Dispelling Myths About Nuclear Energy
By Jack Spencer and Nicolas Loris
(Backgrounder #2087)
Anti-nuclear activists managed to stop the nuclear industry once before, but nuclear energy is too important to America for this to be allowed to happen again. Despite activists’ attempts to mislead the public with inaccurate or irrelevant information, nuclear energy is a proven, viable, economical, and environmentally sound solution to U.S. energy needs and legislative carbon constraints.
November 15, 2007
Competitive Nuclear Energy Investment: Avoiding Past Policy Mistakes
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #2086)
Nuclear power is a proven, safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels that can offset America’s growing dependence on foreign energy. Federal, state, and local governments will have a role to play, especially in building confidence with investors, but the best long-term subsidy that they could give the industry is the freedom to succeed.
November 14, 2007
Congress Should Not Overlook Benefits of Nuclear Energy
By Jack Spencer and Nick Loris
(WebMemo #1704)
Congress should opt for market-based policies that do not force specific technologies on American energy consumers.
November 05, 2007
The Advantages of Expanding the Nuclear Navy
By Jack Spencer and Baker Spring
(WebMemo #1693)
Congress should consider the benefits of calling for all future major combatant vessels to be powered by an integrated nuclear power and propulsion system.
October 09, 2007
Congress Must Implement CSC Treaty to Reinvigorate U.S. Nuclear Industry
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #1658)
The Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage will better enable U.S. companies to engage in peaceful international nuclear commerce.
September 26, 2007
The Nuclear Renaissance: Ten Principles to Guide U.S. Policy
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #1640)
The United States risks cementing its status in the second tier of commercial nuclear power states unless it takes action.
September 19, 2007
Bush Administration Advocates for Clean, Affordable Nuclear Energy
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #1625)
Nuclear power has the potential to meet future energy demand while alleviating environmental, economic, and security concerns.
2005 Research
August 11, 2005
The 2005 Quadrennial Defense Review: China and Space—The Unmentionable Issues
By By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #819)
Every four years, the Department of Defense, as required by law, conducts a review of its forces, resources, and programs and presents the findings of this Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) to the president and Congress. The QDR provides a basic strategy for addressing critical issues like budget and acquisition priorities, emerging threats, and Pentagon capabilities for the next 20 years.
August 11, 2005
The Future of the Coast Guard: A View From the Top.
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #818)
How should the Coast Guard transform to meet the missions of a post-9/11 environment? At a recent Heritage Foundation lecture, Admiral Thomas H. Collins, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, gave an overview of how the Coast Guard plans to meet the current and future challenges of the post-9/11 world and the Coast Guard's many maritime domain responsibilities, from homeland security to protecting natural resources.
August 10, 2005
The 2005 Quadrennial Defense Review: New Missions in Homeland Security and Post-Conflict Operations?
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #816)
Every four years, the Department of Defense conducts a review of its forces, resources, and programs and presents the findings of this Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) to the President and Congress.
July 18, 2005
BRAC Wars, Episode Three
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #798)
BRAC, the National Guard, and the states.
July 08, 2005
BRAC and Per Capita Income
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1867)
Base Realignment and Closure is not about jobs, nor should it be. It is about national security. The Pentagon has too much infrastructure, and much of what it has is outdated and unnecessary. A successful BRAC will help the Pentagon to provide national security, which is the most appropriate contribution the Defense Department can make to the U.S. economy.
July 07, 2005
The 2005 Quadrennial Defense Review: The Reserve Component
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #785)
The Reserves, transformation, and the QDR.
June 14, 2005
The Future of the Air Force: A View from the Top
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #760)
The Air Force, transformation, and the QDR.
June 14, 2005
The 2005 Quadrennial Defense Review: The Military Industrial Base
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #761)
What is the role of the military industrial base in Quadrennial Defense Review planning?
June 14, 2005
No Good Reason To Close Gitmo
By Jack Spencer, Ariel Cohen, Ph.D., Jim Phillips, and Alane Kochems
(WebMemo #763)
Why those who would close the detention center at Guantanamo Bay are wrong.
May 23, 2005
Base Realignment and Closure: National Guard and Regional Implications
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #748)
How BRAC affects the National Guard.
May 13, 2005
The U.S. Should Consider F/A-22 Sales to Select Allies
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(Executive Memorandum #970)
The United States should consider opening the F/A-22 to limited international sales. Exporting this fighter on a limited basis would be good for U.S. national security, the industrial base, and diplomatic relations. The F/A-22 is not the answer to all of America's (much less the rest of the world's) security concerns, but it can play an important role.
April 26, 2005
The Future of the Navy: A View from the Top
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #731)
The Navy, transformation, and the QDR.
April 25, 2005
A Congressional Guide to Defense Transformation: Issues and Answers
By James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., Jack Spencer, and Kathy Gudgel
(Backgrounder #1847)
The Pentagon must continue to emphasize transforming the force to meet the security challenges of the 21st century. Congress and the Administration can support these efforts by insisting that the Quadrennial Defense Review address critical unresolved transformation issues, and Congress must provide adequate resources to support current operations, preserve combat readiness, and promote further transformation.
April 20, 2005
The 2005 Quadrennial Defense Review: Strategy and Threats
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #728)
All about the threat matrix.
April 13, 2005
Sorting Out the Supplemental: Congress Must Cut and Paste to Get It Right
By James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., and Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #722)
Congress has work to do before this goes to the President.
March 30, 2005
Congress Should Restore Funding to Refuel Attack Submarines
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #967)
The Navy's nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) are involved in nearly all aspects of national security. Undetected, they gather intelligence, insert special forces, and are among the first to fire in times of conflict. Yet the President's FY 2006 budget request cuts funding that would keep two additional submarines in the fleet. Congress should restore these funds.
March 29, 2005
Making the 2005 BRAC a Success
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #703)
Why this round is especially important
March 22, 2005
Options for Maintaining a Robust, Adequate and Efficient Military Industrial Base: The Advantages and Disadvantages of the Free Market and Controlled Competition Models
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #699)
Experts examine the existing military industrial base, compare free market and controlled competition models, and provide recommendations.
March 11, 2005
The 2005 Quadrennial Defense Review: The View from the Pentagon
By Jack Spencer and Kathy Gudgel
(WebMemo #682)
The 2005 Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) should be quite different from past reports because of the unique conditions under which it is being conducted.
February 17, 2005
National Security Requires a National Perspective—and Congressional Action
By James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., Baker Spring, and Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #959)
Comprehensive assessments of national defense and homeland security efforts within the context of the overall interagency national security effort would enable the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security to focus on known responsibilities and help to ensure that agencies beyond DOD and DHS are not burdened with responsibilities that should fall under the purview of other government entities.
January 11, 2005
Defense Priorities for the Next Four Years
By Jack Spencer, James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., and Baker Spring
(Executive Memorandum #953)
Although defense spending has increased, underfunding continues to burden all of the armed services. America must prepare itself for the rigors of post-conflict operations in the 21st century. U.S. basing infrastructure must be recalibrated for changing national security requirements.
January 05, 2005
Pentagon Cuts Should Be Based on Needs, Not Budgets
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #632)
Jack Spencer considers the Pentagon's leaked budget cuts.
2004 Research
December 21, 2004
The Future of the Army: A View from the Top
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #628)
The Army Chief of Staff names the strategic challenges of transformation.
December 15, 2004
Principles for the Next Quadrennial Defense Review
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #954)
The Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) is meant as a long-term analysis of the nation's defense requirements. During the next QDR, platforms and systems must be weighted equally; capabilities, force structure, and responsibilities must be balanced; and the war on terrorism should influence-but not drive-long-term decision making.
December 10, 2004
The War on Terrorism and Beyond: Principles and Issues for the Quadrennial Defense Review
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #619)
A successful QDR will focus on transformation and other issues
December 08, 2004
Congress is Wrong to Defund Strategic Programs
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #618)
Congress should reinstate funding for strategic weapons programs.
October 20, 2004
Bush and Kerry: Stark Contrasts on National Security
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #947)
National security is a top issue in this year's presidential election. Decisions made over the next four years on a number of high-stakes issues (nuclear deterrence, ballistic missile defense, base realignment and closure, and permanent troop increases) will have ramifications for the global war on terrorism and define how prepared the United States is for a dangerous and unpredictable future.
September 01, 2004
Before the Overseas Basing Commission
By Jack Spencer
(Testimony #9999)
President George W. Bush announced on August 16, 2004, that the United States will alter its overseas basing infrastructure in the coming years. This realignment of forces could affect up to 70,000 servicemen currently stationed abroad and nearly as many dependants. The President should be applauded for this decision, which will advance America's national security.
August 16, 2004
Principles for Restructuring America's Global Military Infrastructure
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #554)
The United States will alter its overseas basing infrastructure in the coming years. This move is overdue.
August 06, 2004
2005 Defense Appropriations Bill Reflects Heritage Priorities
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #551)
Many of the activities funded by the bill are vitally important to United States' national security and have been advocated by the Heritage Foundation.
August 03, 2004
The Electromagnetic Pulse Commission Warns of an Old Threat with a New Face
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1784)
Neither the U.S. armed forces nor civilian infrastructure is adequately protected against electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack. Protecting the United States against the evolving EMP threat will require a mix of active defenses, passive defenses, and policy changes--including retrofitting and periodic vulnerability assessments.
August 02, 2004
The Use of Directed-Energy Weapons to Protect Critical Infrastructure
By Jack Spencer and James Jay Carafano, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1783)
America's critical infrastructure is increasingly vulnerable to the threat of precise, airborne missile attack. Directed-energy weapons (DEWs) can help protect against these threats. Congress and the Bush Administration should fully fund DEW technology and should encourage departments developing such technology to share their efforts with each other and with U.S. allies.
July 20, 2004
The Defense Authorization Bill: A Survival Guide
By Jack Spencer, Baker Spring, Nile Gardiner, Ph.D., Brett D. Schaefer, and John J. Tkacik
(Backgrounder #1780)
As the conference committee reconciles the House and Senate versions of the 2005 defense authorization bill, some of the most important differences that must be resolved include the issues of missile defense; base realignment and closure; the U.N. Oil-for-Food scandal; U.S.–Taiwan military-to-military exchanges; Rapid Acquisition Authority; and "Buy America" and other protectionist purchasing requirements.
May 20, 2004
BRAC Must Not Be Delayed
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #507)
The Armed Services Committee passed an amendment that would delay BRAC. Congress should reject this delay.
May 20, 2004
Large Increases in Manpower Not Needed at This Time
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1762)
Before deciding if increased military personnel are needed, those already in uniform should first be used more efficiently. By making smart investments and freeing wasted resources, the U.S. armed forces can increase their capability in the near term and be better prepared to fight and win America's wars.
April 01, 2004
Defending Defense: Budgeting for an Unpredictable Future
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #918)
Some Members of Congress are thinking of cutting defense to help reign in federal spending. This is both unnecessary and dangerous; even with recent defense budget increases, the Pentagon has $12.2 billion in unfunded priorities. Instead, Congress should fund the President's request, and the Pentagon should identify savings to help close the $12.2 billion gap.
February 10, 2004
Growing the Army the Right Way
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #912)
Ultimately, the United States may need a permanent increase in end-strength to meet all of its defense needs, but that step should wait until existing forces are deployed more efficiently. By making smart investments and freeing wasted resources, the U.S. armed forces can increase their capability in the near term and be better prepared to fight and win America's wars in the future.
January 27, 2004
Dealing with Dirty Bombs: Plain Facts, Practical Solutions
By James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., and Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1723)
Most assessments of America's vulnerabilities include some mention of susceptibility to attacks by radiological dispersal devices, or "dirty bombs." But because the nature of the threat is often misconstrued, there is no shared appreciation of the problem or how best to address it. Implementing a few commonsense policies will better prepare the nation for a dirty bomb attack and substantially increase America's general preparedness.
January 06, 2004
Guidelines for a Successful BRAC
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1716)
A successful Base Realignment and Closure will rid the Department of Defense of excess infrastructure, free resources, and ensure that the remaining infrastructure is appropriate for a 21st century military. Poor BRAC decisions could lead to an inadequate infrastructure that, although it may generate savings, neither supports the current force nor prepares the armed forces for future challenges.
2003 Research
November 13, 2003
Achieving Balance in America's Long-Range Strike Aircraft Capabilities
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1706)
Instead of facilitating the transformation that most strategic thinkers agree is necessary, the Pentagon's current strategy of relying on short-range aircraft for strike operations while allowing the bomber fleet to age merely perpetuates the status quo. Because both long- and short-range air are important, as are both manned and unmanned options, the United States needs a comprehensive plan to achieve a balanced acquisition strategy for long-range strike aircraft.
November 12, 2003
Secretary Powell's Message to Europe: Measuring NATO's Future Performance
By John Hulsman, Ph.D., Jack Spencer, James Jay Carafano, Ph.D., and Will Schirano
(WebMemo #364)
During his trip to Europe, November 17 and 18, Secretary of State Colin Powell must make it clear that NATO continues to be the preeminent transatlantic security institution and that the organization's survival is in the best interest of both the United States and the European countries.
September 10, 2003
Are We Safer Today Than Before 9/11?
By Jack Spencer and Ha Nguyen
(WebMemo #335)
On the second anniversary of the September 11 attacks, many are asking the question: Are we safer today then we were two years ago? Unfortunately, a simple yes or no answer oversimplifies a complex situation. Therefore, a conditional "yes" is the more appropriate response.
August 14, 2003
Facts About the Shoulder-Fired Missile Threat
By James Jay Carafano, Ph.D. and Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #328)
New concern over the safety of citizens' air travel in an environment of terrorist threat was ignited with the August 12 successful interception of an attempted arms sale of a shoulder-fired Igla SA-18 missile. A realistic assessment of such a danger and an effective response to the threat should be developed within the context of the following facts.
August 12, 2003
A Strong National Defense Commands New Nuclear Research Funding
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #325)
Senate appropriators are rightly concerned with attempts by certain members of Congress to curtail critical nuclear national security programs by amending pending "energy development" appropriations legislation - seriously inhibiting America's ability to transform its Cold War nuclear arsenal into one more appropriate for the 21st century.
August 01, 2003
Reducing Stress on an Overstretched Force
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #895)
To bridge the capabilities gap, the United States should focus its military resources on missions that are vital to the nation. Specifically, it must field a force capable of fighting the immediate war on terrorism, fighting with little or no warning in unanticipated places, maintaining adequate capability to deter aggression against America's interests and allies, and contributing to homeland defense.
July 10, 2003
Bold & Appropriate: Withholding Military Aid Over ICC Waivers
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #310)
President Bush's decision to suspend $47 million in military aid to 35 countries that have not signed International Criminal Court waivers is bold, appropriate, and consistent with the American Servicemembers' Protection Act. The United States must continue to work with the U.N. Security Council to achieve permanent ICC immunity for U.S. service members, as the court represents an unacceptable legal bureaucracy that invites political manipulation.
July 03, 2003
Why U.S. Troops Should Not Be Sent to Liberia
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #308)
President Bush should not commit any United States troops to an international peacekeeping force in Liberia. There is scant evidence that peace is imminent. Any international force would not be peacekeepers, but war fighters.
June 09, 2003
Congress's Vital Role in Building a Strong National Defense
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1658)
America's long-range bomber force needs to be modernized; its nuclear force structure is largely a relic of the Cold War; and Army transformation must move forward to give America's soldiers the tools they need to succeed. These programs are vulnerable to cuts in the concluding elements of the budget process, but all must remain fully funded to help ensure a strong national defense in future years.
April 28, 2003
Restructuring America's European Base Structure for the New Era
By Jack Spencer and John C. Hulsman, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1648)
Because American forces in Europe are not deployed to meet the coming challenges of the 21st century, the Bush Administration should seriously consider redeploying NATO forces further east in greater numbers.
March 26, 2003
Will Saddam Use Chemical Weapons?
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #240)
What America can be sure of is that Saddam does have deadly chemicals and that he will not hesitate to use them, as he has before, if he believes that it will advance his objectives.
March 21, 2003
Focusing Defense Resources to Meet National Security Requirements
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1638)
America's armed forces must, at a minimum, be prepared to fight the immediate war on terrorism, fight with little or no warning in unanticipated places, maintain adequate capability to deter aggression against America's allies, and contribute to homeland defense.
March 21, 2003
bg1638es: Focusing Defense Resources to Meet National Security Requirements
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Summary #1638)
bg1638es: Focusing Defense Resources to Meet National Security Requirements
March 21, 2003
Opening Days of Gulf War II Demonstrates Need to Accelerate Army Transformation
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #233)
In the era of modern warfare, where timelines are extremely short, strategic agility cannot be undervalued thus demonstrating a need to accelerate Army transformation.
March 19, 2003
Three War Aims
By Baker Spring and Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #229)
Breifly discusses three war aim in which the Bush Administration should conduct this military operation to end Saddam Hussein's brutal and menacing regime in Iraq.
March 19, 2003
The Case Against Iraq
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #227)
Outlines the lessons learned through the September 11 attacks, which clearly shows why Saddam poses a threat that must be dealt with immediately.
March 19, 2003
Why Preemption is Necessary
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #226)
In situations where the evidence demonstrates overwhelmingly that behavioral trends, capability, and motives all point to imminent threat, it may be necessary for the President to attack preemptively.
2002 Research
October 02, 2002
bg1600es: Presidential Authority in the War on Terrorism: Iraq and Beyond
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Summary #1600)
bg1600es: Presidential Authority in the War on Terrorism: Iraq and Beyond
October 02, 2002
Presidential Authority in the War on Terrorism: Iraq and Beyond
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1600)
Now is the time for decisive action against Saddam Hussein. If the U.N. balks at taking action to address Saddam's violation of its resolutions, the President still has full legal authority, both from the U.N. and from Congress, to take whatever actions may be necessary.
September 25, 2002
The New National Security Strategy
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #149)
The President's National Security Strategy provides an effective blueprint to guide the nation through its war on terrorism while staying vigilant on other issues. Though it lacks in-depth detail for some issues, for the most part, the document will serve the nation well.
September 25, 2002
bg1589es: In Post-War Iraq, Use Military Forces to Secure Vital U.S. Interests
By Baker Spring and Jack Spencer
(Executive Summary #1589)
bg1589es: In Post-War Iraq, Use Military Forces to Secure Vital U.S. Interests, Not for Nation-Building
September 25, 2002
In Post-War Iraq, Use Military Forces to Secure Vital U.S. Interests
By Baker Spring and Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1589)
The Administration should make it clear that a U.S. military presence in post-war Iraq will be deployed to secure vital U.S. interests, not as an exercise in so-called nation-building--the Clinton Administration's open-ended policy of sending American troops into troubled regions where vital U.S. security interests were not directly threatened.
September 10, 2002
bg1584es: 9/11 One Year Later: Progress and Promise
By Michael Scardaville and Jack Spencer
(Executive Summary #1584)
bg1584es: 9/11 One Year Later: Progress and Promise
September 10, 2002
9/11 One Year Later: Progress and Promise
By Michael Scardaville and Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1584)
A year has passed since September 11, and while the federal government has done much to increase the nation's security, more still needs to be done. Now is the time to take these next critical steps to ensure the protection of the American people.
July 30, 2002
After the Victory: America's Role
By James A. Phillips, Jack Spencer, and John C. Hulsman, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1574)
The U.S. must adjust its strategy in Afghanistan and win the peace. Continued U.S. engagement is critical to putting Afghanistan on the right track.
July 30, 2002
bg1574es: After the Victory: America's Role
By James A. Phillips, Jack Spencer, and John C. Hulsman, Ph.D.
(Executive Summary #bg1574es)
bg1574es: After the Victory: America's Role in Afghanistan's Future
July 29, 2002
The National Guard and Homeland Security
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #826)
The National Guard and Homeland Security
July 29, 2002
The National Guard and Homeland Security
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #826)
The United States must assure that active forces are adequately staffed and equipped to carry out their missions abroad even if the National Guard is called up for homeland security missions.
June 25, 2002
BG1563ES: Federal Homeland Security Policy
By Michael Scardaville and Jack Spencer
(Executive Summary #1563)
In light of the President's proposal for a new Department of Homeland Security, it is more important than ever that Washington make the right decisions in a timely manner. In this time of war, it is essential that the focus remain on national security and not be distorted by political manipulation and agency workplace fears. Washington has done much since September 11 to increase security; now it is time to take the next important steps. Washington must do more to improve its ability to share intelligence between agencies and with state and local authorities. An intelligence fusion center must be created to collect, analyze, and disseminate intelligence on a need-to-know basis. The federal government should expand its chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) training programs for first responders and establish a national health surveillance network that could detect the presence of a bioterrorism agent at the ground level. The Defense Department's role in homeland security should be better defined, especially with regard to the National Guard, which is well-positioned to assume the lead military role in homeland security. Finally, Congress must reform its committee structure to enhance its budgetary, legislative and oversight functions.
June 25, 2002
Federal Homeland Security Policy
By Michael Scardaville and Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1563)
the President and Congress have done much to meet daunting new challenges to security, including a bold proposal to create a Cabinet-level Department of Homeland Security.
June 20, 2002
Responding to the Indo-Pakistani Crisis
By James Phillips, Jack Spencer, Dexter Ingram, and Dana Robert Dillon
(Backgrounder #1562)
Although the U.S. should continue to encourage India and Pakistan to settle the dispute over Kashmir themselves, it should not attempt to insert itself as the mediator or provide troops for a new U.N. military observer force. A bilateral agreement reached freely by India and Pakistan is the best means to allow the people of Kashmir to live a future in peace. In the long run, the people of Kashmir, India, and Pakistan would be far better off in resolving the crisis this way than in risking a dangerous slide into stubborn brinkmanship, which could trigger a nuclear war.
May 17, 2002
The NATO Expansion Bill Advances American Security
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #99)
Expanding NATO membership while increasing Russia's involvement with the alliance is central to promoting American, European, and Russian security. Expansion, if done correctly, will facilitate the required flexibility the United States needs to protect its interests in a dangerous and unpredictable world.
May 13, 2002
Meeting the Needs of America's Crucial First Responders
By Michael Scardaville and Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1548)
In today's hostile environment, improving the ability of America's first responders to mitigate the consequences of a WMD terrorist attack is vital to increasing the nation's overall level of domestic preparedness.
April 08, 2002
The Role of the National Guard in Homeland Security
By Jack Spencer and Larry M. Wortzel, Ph.D.
(Backgrounder #1532)
The National Guard is well-suited to serving as the lead military agency for homeland security; it should receive adequate funding to train and equip its units for homeland security,
March 04, 2002
How to Interpret the CBO Report
By Baker Spring and Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #803)
Accurate assessments of the cost of missile defense can be made only once a decision is made about the actual architecture the Administration will pursue.
2001 Research
October 11, 2001
Understanding the Bioterrorist Threat
By Jack Spencer and Michael Scardaville
(Backgrounder #1488)
As devastating as the September 11th terrorist attacks were, the likelihood is growing that terrorists may soon decide to use biological agents as weapons to extract even higher death tolls.
September 20, 2001
A Defense Agenda for 21st Century Warfare
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1476)
In response to September 11, President Bush has promised a sustained military effort to eradicate the terrorist networks and the state sponsors behind them. Although such a campaign may change some near-term priorities, it also will underscore the importance of implementing a long-term force modernization and transformation strategy.
August 10, 2001
Why Secretary Rumsfeld's Plan
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #765)
Secretary Rumsfeld's plan to upgrade and strengthen US national defense is necessary to meet the current stategic requirements of the US armed forces.
July 20, 2001
Moving Forward on Missile Defense
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1461)
The President should make it very clear that the imminent threat of a missile attack necessitates a defensive deployment as soon as possible and that this requires that the United States notify Russia that it will exercise its legal right to withdraw from the ABM Treaty.
July 18, 2001
Why the Social Experiment of Gender-Integrated
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #758)
National security and the readiness of America's armed forces to fight and win wars must come before political correctness. The first step, and one that will have the greatest immediate effect, is to separate the sexes during basic training.
June 22, 2001
America Needs a New Space Launch Vehicle
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #755)
The United States must be prepared to support its space-based infrastructure should it come under attack. Many adversaries would be deterred from taking hostile action against U.S. space-based assets if they knew their attempts would be futile.
May 02, 2001
Missile Defense Q&A
By Jack Spencer
(WebMemo #12)
President Bush has set the table for a policy of deploying an effective missile defense system by setting a clear vision of how such a system contributes to a more secure world. Still, there are many questions among supporters and critics.
April 17, 2001
Time to Review the Defense Advisory Committee
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Memorandum #739)
The DACOWITS' agenda has become too politicized, and many of the committee's members are pursuing a feminist agenda that diverts attention and resources away from the urgent problems facing today's services.
April 02, 2001
Don't Shortchange Defense
By Jack Spencer and Baker Spring
(Executive Memorandum #734)
The most pressing needs facing the U.S. armed forces today are assuring near-term readiness and being able to defend America from missiles carrying nuclear, biological, and chemical warheads.
March 28, 2001
Guidelines for Modernizing America's Armed Forces
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1422)
A successful modernization strategy will adhere to the core missions of the U.S. military: to protect and defend Americans at home and abroad; to deter aggression and defeat near-term threats; and to ensure long-term combat effectiveness.
March 28, 2001
BG1422es: Guidelines for Modernizing America's Armed Forces
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Summary #1422es)
BG1422es: Guidelines for Modernizing America's Armed Forces
February 20, 2001
Dispelling the Myths About Military Use of Depleted Uranium
By Jack Spencer and Michael Scardaville
(Executive Memorandum #721)
Depleted uranium vitally important to American weaponry, not proved harmful
February 16, 2001
The Importance of Vieques Island for Military Readiness
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1411)
The Importance of Vieques Island for Military Readiness
2000 Research
October 12, 2000
President's Decision to Defer Missile Defense
By Jack Spencer and Michael Scardaville
(Executive Memorandum #699)
Proliferation Continues After President's Decision to Defer Missile Defense
September 15, 2000
BG1394es: The Facts About Military Readiness
By Jack Spencer
(Executive Summary #1394)
BG1394es: The Facts About Military Readiness
September 15, 2000
BG1394: The Facts About Military Readiness
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1394)
BG1394: The Facts About Military Readiness
July 13, 2000
The Quickest Way to Global Missile Defense: First From the Sea
By Jack Spencer and Joe Dougherty
(Backgrounder #1384)
The Quickest Way to Global Missile Defense: First From the Sea
June 05, 2000
Why Cutting the Submarine Fleet Will Seriously Threaten National Security
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1374)
Why Cutting the Submarine Fleet Will Seriously Threaten National Security
May 26, 2000
America's Vulnerability to a Different Nuclear Threat
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1372)
America's Vulnerability to a Different Nuclear Threat: An Electromagnetic Pulse
1999 Research
September 29, 1999
Assessing the Report on the Missile Threat
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1329)
The ballistic missile threat to the United States is real and it is growing.
July 12, 1999
What Foreign Leaders Are Saying About Missile Defense
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1306)
In May 1999, a bipartisan majority of Congress voted to make it the policy of the United States to deploy a national missile defense as soon as technologically possible.
June 29, 1999
The ABM Treaty and Missile Defense
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1302)
The United States could find itself facing the threat of missile attack from rogue states with little or no warning.
May 13, 1999
The Clinton Administration's War Aims in Kosovo
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1281)
President Bill Clinton explained to the American people that the NATO air campaign was intended to avoid "an even crueler and costlier war."
April 07, 1999
What People Are Saying About Missile Defense
By Jack Spencer
(Backgrounder #1269)
The question is no longer whether America needs a national missile defense, but how and when America will end its vulnerability to ballistic missile attack.
2008 Commentary
December 22, 2008
Nuclear Industry Growing Without Federal Handouts
By Jack Spencer
Seems like the only way to get a business going (or keep it going) today is to get help from Washington. That is, unless you're in the nuclear business. While other industries are begging for taxpayer dollars, the nuclear industry is expanding at an impressive pace — without federal subsidies.
August 04, 2008
Uranium mining: Securing America's energy future
By Jack Spencer and Nick Loris
What does uranium have in common with Arctic oil, off-shore natural gas, coastal wind and cellulosic ethanol? They're all sources of energy that government bureaucrats have declared off-limits _ needlessly.
June 09, 2008
Road to Clean Air Runs Through Yucca Mountain
By Jack Spencer and Garrett Murch
Take their seemingly never-ending preaching over CO2. The world is in peril without major action, we’re told. According to Al Gore, we’ve never faced a greater threat, which ought to come as news to any veteran of World War II.
April 23, 2008
N-power is a fix for Utah energy woes
By Jack S
