Beginning with the year 2020, we have published an annual publication to highlight defense dynamics and developments over the past five years. This provides a unique insight into developments during this period by providing assessments published in real time during that period.

We started with 2020 and highlighted the pandemic year. After that we started the series officially with ts annual identification, namely Defense XXI, Defense XII and Defense XXIII.

The period from 2020-2024 witnessed a period of rapid change and uncertainty in the global security environment. These changes underscore the need for adaptation and innovation in defense thinking, with a focus on emerging technologies, strengthening alliances, and preparing for a multipolar world order.

2024 was a notably year in the evolution of the competition between the liberal democracies and the authoritarian powers. The liberal democracies are working to adapt their forces to the kind of competition which is posed by a multi-polar authoritarian challenge. It is no longer the bi-polar Cold War or the land wars as part of the “Global War on Terrorism” which is on offer. It is about the very survival of the “rules-based order” which has allowed the liberal democracies to hope for the end of history.

Rather than that, we are facing the end to our illusions. The essays in this book by the Second Line of Defense and Defense.info team address not only the challenges but the practical steps being taken by U.S. and allied militaries to adapt to this new and evolving situation.

The wars in the Middle East in Europe and the engagement of the Chinese Communist Party led Chinese state in expanded gray zone operations have defined a growing lethal environment. The illusions of a peaceful global path via globalization have been exposed. So what comes next?

The book features articles examining the war in Ukraine, its impact on European and global security, the rise of multipolar authoritarianism, and the evolving roles of various actors, including the U.S. Russia, China, and NATO.

The book also explores technological advancements in weaponry, such as the F-35 and various drone systems, and their implications for modern warfare.

Finally, it addresses the changing dynamics of defense industrial strategies, and the challenges faced by the U.S. military in recruitment and retention.