Forward Defense events

Our convenings on the latest trends and technologies defining twenty-first century security.

flagship convenings

Commanders Series

The Council’s flagship speakers’ forum for senior military and defense leaders. The series provides a platform to discuss current strategic issues with an impressive audience drawn from across Washington’s policy community.

Arsenals of Democracy

Arsenals of Democracy is a project by the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security’s Forward Defense program, which aims to address challenges and opportunities at the intersection of defense ministries and industries.

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watch past events

Public Event Mon, April 13, 2026 • 9:00 am ET

Admiral Daryl Caudle on the strategic vision for the US Navy
Defense Policy Maritime Security National Security
Public Event Wed, December 17, 2025 • 10:30 am ET

The Pentagon’s Michael Cadenazzi on revitalizing the defense industrial base
Defense Industry Defense Policy Defense Technologies National Security
Public Event Thu, December 4, 2025 • 2:00 pm ET

General Aurelio Colagrande on preparing NATO for the challenges of tomorrow
Defense Policy National Security NATO United States and Canada
Public Event Wed, November 5, 2025 • 3:00 pm ET

Representative Adam Smith on how Congress will shape US defense policy

AN #ACFRONTPAGE EVENT—Representative Adam Smith (D-WA), ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, shares his priorities for the upcoming National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and discusses how Congress can ensure the Pentagon meets today’s security challenges.

Security & Defense United States and Canada
Public Event Wed, October 29, 2025 • 4:00 pm ET

Supply chain resilience for aerospace and defense
Defense Industry Defense Policy Economy & Business Trade and tariffs
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Forward Defense develops and shapes policy solutions that build US military power to deter war and secure the future.

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