Building Defence Capabilities for Future Uncertainty

Introduction

This publication examines how small democratic countries can build defence capabilities for an uncertain future while responding to current security challenges. Bringing together research by scholars and military practitioners, it addresses four interconnected areas: strengthening domestic defence, modernising military capabilities, improving professional military education, and fostering public-private cooperation. Topics include resilience, critical infrastructure protection, hybrid threats, information warfare, emerging technologies, and defence industrial capacity. The volume also explores digital transformation, critical thinking, and responsible engagement with artificial intelligence in military education. Developed from discussions at the 2024 International Society of Military Sciences conference in Stockholm, it offers perspectives on preparing armed forces and defence institutions for changing operational and strategic demands.