Policy Currents | The newsletter for policy people
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** Dec. 11, 2025
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Passive Defenses in Major War
From suits of armor and shields to city walls and castle moats, passive defenses are as old as warfare itself. Although defenses look much different today, they are still essential. As RAND researchers write in a new report, protecting the force is always relevant.
To deter future major-power conflict, passive defenses can help convince the adversary that its preferred mode of attack is overly risky and unlikely to succeed. And if a major war does occur, then passive defenses can be used to counter the adversary kill chain and minimize the effects of precision weapons.
These findings have several implications for the Pentagon. The Joint Staff, for example, can focus on how passive defense investments might contribute to U.S. war-winning capabilities. U.S. military leaders can also work with allies and partners to share information on passive defense options and develop integrated plans of action.
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How Might AI Manipulate the Human Mind?
Large language models and future artificial general intelligence systems might be capable of inducing delusions or psychotic episodes in humans. A new RAND study explores AI-induced psychosis as a potential national security risk. Could U.S. adversaries weaponize AI tools to provoke psychosis at scale or within specific groups? And if so, then what harms might follow?
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France and the UK Are Committed to Deterring Russia
In the face of Russian aggression, France and the United Kingdom have pledged to deepen their nuclear cooperation. RAND Europe experts say this partnership "is becoming an unavoidable necessity." But building European conventional and nuclear capabilities that deter Russia won't be easy. Industrial bottlenecks, talent shortages, and political hurdles all stand in the way.
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** RAND Recommends
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- A RAND report published earlier this year highlights three strategic outlooks that influenced the 2025 National Security Strategy.
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- At a recent RAND event, researchers and other experts presented findings from a study on military exposures and health outcomes in post-9/11 veterans.
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- Post-doctoral students, tenure-track junior faculty, and doctoral students studying nuclear security can apply for the Stanton Nuclear Security Fellows Program. The deadline is December 15.
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** Learn Policy Analysis from RAND Experts
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At the RAND School of Public Policy, you'll gain the skills and knowledge needed to shape a better tomorrow. Full-time and part-time master's degree programs are available at our campuses in Santa Monica, CA, and Arlington, VA.
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