Recent analysis

Programs

The Atlantic Council Technology Programs comprises five existing efforts—the Digital Forensic Research Lab (DFRLab), the GeoTech Center, the Cyber Statecraft Initiative, the Democracy + Tech Initiative, and the Capacity Building Initiative. These operations work together to address the geopolitical implications of technology and provide policymakers and global stakeholders necessary research, insights, and convenings to address challenges around global technology and ensure its responsible advancement.

Forward Defense leads the Atlantic Council’s US and global defense programming, developing actionable recommendations for the United States and its allies and partners to compete, innovate, and navigate the rapidly evolving character of warfare. Through its work on US defense policy and force design, the military applications of advanced technology, space security, strategic deterrence, and defense industrial revitalization, it informs the strategies, policies, and capabilities that the United States will need to deter, and, if necessary, prevail in major-power conflict.

Content

GeoTech Cues

Sep 2, 2026

The D2D boom has a launch problem

By Olivia Torres

Amid the race for more direct-to-device connectivity, a major obstacle has emerged: getting satellites into orbit.

Space Technology & Innovation

GeoTech Cues

Aug 28, 2026

In space, everyone can hear you stream: Challenges ahead of the corporate space data race

By Will LaRivee, Matt Petit

Private companies are driving the rise of space-based data centers, but it is not yet clear who will own, govern, and access data processed in orbit.

Space Technology & Innovation

Dispatches

Apr 16, 2026

Repurposing NASA’s Gateway partnerships in the face of ‘Ignition’

By Olivia Torres

Even as NASA shifts to its new US-focused program, it should continue to recognize that international partnerships are crucial for funding, technology, and sustaining US space leadership.

Europe & Eurasia Politics & Diplomacy

GeoTech Cues

Feb 18, 2026

To compete with China in space, the US must form more equitable commercial partnerships with African nations

By Maureen Farrell and Matt Petit

To counter China’s space diplomacy efforts, the United States must make creative investments across multiple sectors of African economies.

Africa National Security

TURKEYSource

Oct 23, 2025

Why institutionalizing space diplomacy should be a pillar of Turkey’s grand strategy

By Elif Yüksel

With its growing visibility in the global space community, Turkey needs to adopt a diplomatic strategy to match its ambitions.

Europe & Eurasia Space

MENASource

Oct 7, 2025

The SpaceBelt KSA-iRocket deal marks Saudi Arabia’s next leap into space

By Manal Fatima

The SpaceBelt KSA case offers insights for other foreign aerospace and tech firms considering partnerships in the Gulf.

Security & Defense Space

MENASource

Aug 4, 2025

What could NATO’s commercial space strategy mean for the Gulf?  

By Manal Fatima

The United States is well positioned to help extend NATO’s emerging commercial space ecosystem to the Gulf.

Europe & Eurasia Space

New Atlanticist

Jul 29, 2025

The US neglects space disaster preparedness at its own peril

By William M. Reicher

From accidents to attacks, a space-based disaster that degrades the operating environment of low Earth orbit would harm the United States.

Security & Defense Space

New Atlanticist

Jul 16, 2025

What’s in NATO’s first-ever commercial space strategy?

By Corey Jacobson

Released at The Hague summit, the Alliance’s new strategy is an important acknowledgement that the private sector is driving innovation in space.

NATO Space

Report

Jun 20, 2025

A guide to national security space trends in the GCC

By AzurX and Graham Brookie

AzurX provides a comprehensive picture of the innovative strategies, ambitious missions, and inspiring visions propelling GCC nation space programs to new heights.

Space Space Security

Experts