Over the last decade, asymmetric warfare and terrorism have become prevalent threats to the United States. National security, today more than at any other time, demands decision-making under uncertainty. The issues presented in this book demonstrate that the value of planning depends upon how well the United States can prepare for a perpetually unpredictable future. Each chapter examines pertinent management, leadership, and accountability issues related to U.S. national security and places readers at the center of difficult decisions. Although the cases collected in this volume revolve around national security related policy questions, they also illustrate more general policy dilemmas and are designed to stimulate new ideas.

Volker C. Franke is Assistant Professor of Political Science and International Studies at McDaniel College.