Overview
- The document imposes a strict hierarchy of priorities that places homeland defense first and deterring China second, with other threats treated as contingent.
- It emphasizes “strength, not confrontation” toward Beijing and omits an explicit reference to Taiwan, drawing criticism from some lawmakers and analysts.
- Alliances are cast as reciprocal and capability-driven, with partners expected to assume primary regional responsibilities rather than rely on open-ended U.S. guarantees.
- The strategy elevates the defense industrial base and supply-chain resilience as core strategic assets, calling for expanded production to sustain operations and support partners.
- The Western Hemisphere focus includes maintaining military and commercial access to Greenland and protecting critical routes such as the Panama Canal.