US Deputy Secretary of Defense Addresses RUSI on the Future Character of War
US Deputy Secretary of Defense, The Hon Kathleen Hicks addressed an audience of RUSI members, the press and members of the public on evolutions in the nature of modern warfare.
As the Pentagon’s No. 2 leader, Deputy Secretary Hicks used her address to reflect on lessons learned over nearly three years of Russia’s latest war of aggression against Ukraine, their implications for potential future conflict in the Indo-Pacific, and how innovations by the US, UK, and other allies and partners can give democracies an upper hand in shaping and mastering the changing character of war.
The event was moderated by Rachel Ellehuus, former US Defense Advisor to NATO and Secretary of Defence Representative in Europe and incoming RUSI Director-General.
Turning in her address to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the lessons which might be drawn in Beijing from the conflict, Deputy Secretary Hicks said:
Moscow’s early battlefield struggles should be deeply concerning for Beijing. This is especially true because the PLA is far less experienced at modern warfare than the Russian military; the PLA hasn’t fought a war in 40 years. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s example of resistance and innovation against an aggressor should also be appreciated clearly – on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, in the South China Sea, and elsewhere.
Discussing the evolution in warfighting technologies, she continued:
The fusion of old and new technology in Ukraine – like small drones enabling real-time artillery correction – also represents a broader trend we’re likely to see in future wars. While each kind of tech has its community of producers… the reality is, both matter: we need uncrewed systems, and 155mm artillery rounds. And both are needed at scale.
US Deputy Secretary of Defense, The Hon Kathleen Hicks
About RUSI
The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) is the world’s oldest and the UK’s leading defence and security think tank. Our mission is to inform, influence and enhance public debate to help build a safer and more stable world.
A unique institution, founded in 1831 by the Duke of Wellington, RUSI embodies nearly two centuries of forward thinking, free discussion, and careful reflection on international affairs and defence and security matters.
RUSI is a British institution but operates with an international perspective. Offices in Nairobi and Brussels reinforce our global reach. Over the years, we have amassed an outstanding reputation for quality and objectivity. Our heritage, location at the heart of Whitehall, and extensive networks inside and outside government, give RUSI a unique insight and authority.
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