Transportation

Ask CFR Experts

How important is 'command of the commons' to U.S. defense strategy going forward?

Asked by Jason Thomas

The diplomatic strength and economic power of the United States depend upon a functioning global order and a system of international trade based on uncontested access to the global commons—the world's shared land, sea , air, and space—for all. Command of the global commons is what makes the United States a super power.

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See more in United States, Defense/Homeland Security, Border and Ports, Air Transportation Security, Transportation

Backgrounder
Renewing America

Renewing America

U.S. Rail Infrastructure

Author: Elizabeth Dovell

Rail infrastructure is a critical component of a transportation network capable of helping the United States compete in global markets. Efforts to expand and modernize U.S. rail, particularly to include high-speed trains, are under debate as lawmakers weigh costs and benefits.

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Op-Ed

No More Costa Concordias

Author: Captain Melissa Bert, USCG
Baltimore Sun

Captain Melissa Bert, USCG, argues that cruise ship disasters should not be happening in the 21st century, and the the U.S. Coast Guard can help ensure they don't.

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Op-Ed

Cruise Ship Safety

Author: Captain Melissa Bert, USCG
San Diego Union-Tribune

Captain Melissa Bert, USCG, says the Costa Concordia disaster provides an opportunity for a thorough reexamination of international safety regulations for passenger vessels.

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Op-Ed

Open a new highway - on the sea

Author: Scott G. Borgerson
Christian Science Monitor

Scott Borgerson writes that “coastal shipping has the potential to strengthen the resilience of America's transportation system – an important national security objective.”

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