Defense Discussions

Through its two distinct speaker series, the Defense Program hosts senior leaders at the vanguard of defense and national security. CNAS’ Fireside Chats and Mission Briefs provide platforms for these leaders to engage in an expert discussion on key topics, which helps to educate a broad public audience.

Fireside Chats

Fireside Chats, hosted by Senior Fellow and Director of the Defense Program Dr. Stacie L. Pettyjohn, feature senior military and civilian leaders from the U.S. Department of Defense and critical ally and partner nations. These discussions cover a wide range of topics, from the future of the U.S. Space Force to munitions production to integration between the United States and allies. Recent guests include General B. Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations, United States Space Force, and the Honorable Dr. William A. LaPlante, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, among others.

Mission Brief

The Mission Brief speaker series, hosted by Senior Fellow Becca Wasser, features deep-dive discussions with the military and civilian leaders driving U.S. and allied defense strategy. Launched in 2021, these conversations examine how defense departments and militaries are preparing to meet current and future defense challenges at the strategic and operational levels.