Author Archive

Robert A. Newson

Robert A. Newson
Captain Robert A. Newson is a Naval Special Warfare (SEAL) officer who recently led strategy and concept development for the Naval Special Warfare Command. Previously, he commanded Special Operations Command (Forward) in Yemen and NSW Support Activity, a cross-functional intelligence operations command, and served as director of the Joint Interagency Task Force – Counter Terrorism. Newson is a graduate of the University of Kansas and the Naval Postgraduate School (with distinction. He is a PhD candidate at the University of San Diego. The conclusions and opinions expressed are his own and do not reflect the official position of the U.S. government.
Ideas

The US Military Should 'Go Small' to Defeat ISIS

Static, fortified bases cede the initiative to the enemy. Unconventional and light is the better approach—even if it carries a higher degree of tactical risk.

  • Robert A. Newson, Council on Foreign Relations
Ideas

Military Force Alone Can’t Deter China’s Expansionism

The U.S. must use its economic levers, especially trade, to parry Beijing’s territory-building.

  • Robert A. Newson and Lauren Dickey, Council on Foreign Relations
Ideas

The 3 Areas Where the Navy Is Adjusting Its Operating Strategy

Facing threats to its existing operating concept, the Navy is adjusting the way it'll pursue surface warfare in the 21st century.

  • Robert A. Newson, Council on Foreign Relations
Business

The US Navy Doesn't Need an Expensive Aircraft Carrier Drone

UCLASS advocates say the plane has to be both survivable and armed to the teeth, but the Navy could use a simpler model.

  • Robert A. Newson, Council on Foreign Relations
Ideas

America Needs To Engage With Its Enemies, Not Isolate

Raw strength and power is necessary for deterrence, but off-ramps from conflict can be created by building relationships.

  • Robert A. Newson, Council on Foreign Relations
Ideas

Why the US Needs a Strategy To Counter 'Hybrid Warfare'

The Pentagon should expect more than a conventional fight in any military conflict with Russia, China, Iran or Syria. And it should start preparing for it immediately. By Robert A. Newson

  • Robert A. Newson, Council on Foreign Relations