Defense and national security strategy for the last year was dominated by what the world has come to know quite well, unfortunately: harrowing attacks by terrorist groups, most often and notably the Islamic State. Political muscling, particularly where borders were at stake. And internal strife, showing itself not via civilian uprisings but rather a military coup attempt and election shockers on both sides of the proverbial pond.

How it ended, however, sets the stage for a 2017 dominated by the unfamiliar: A divided Europe. A new White House administration, led by a US president that universally confounds. And political reconciliations that unsettle some — testing loyalties — even as they might signal newfound cooperation that could (maybe?) prove productive.

Political transitions are nothing out of the ordinary. Nor are shifting alliances. But what makes 2017 unusual is how much is converging upon the world at once. It feels like the start of something new, and nobody knows just yet what will be for the better versus the worst. And what may even end up inconsequential.

Outlook 2017: Perspectives from global thought leaders


In this year's Outlook 2017 package, defense leaders and experts from around the world share their views on what they feel will rise above the noise — from innovation and enabling the industrial base, to rethinking national security strategies.

Jill Aitoro
Executive Editor

Jill Aitoro is editor of Defense News. She is also executive editor of Sightline Media's Business-to-Government group, including Defense News, C4ISRNET, Federal Times and Fifth Domain. She brings over 15 years’ experience in editing and reporting on defense and federal programs, policy, procurement, and technology.

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