Global military and defense modernization has become a defining feature of the contemporary international system, shaped by accelerating technological change, intensifying geopolitical competition, and the redefinition of deterrence in a multipolar world. Across different regions and political systems, states are increasingly pursuing parallel modernization efforts, making this trend a truly global phenomenon rather than one limited to major military powers. Countries such as the United Kingdom, Japan, and others are continuously upgrading their defense architectures, reflecting a broader effort to adapt to new strategic realities. In this context, middle powers are emerging as increasingly important actors in shaping regional security dynamics and contributing to broader processes of strategic rebalancing. Türkiye, as a middle power, exemplifies this trend through its ongoing modernization of defense capabilities and its growing strategic agency within an evolving international security environment, reflecting the wider role of middle powers in bridging regional security demands with global power shifts.
This session will examine the key drivers and implications of contemporary defense modernization across major, middle, and emerging powers. It will explore how technological innovation is redefining military superiority and transforming doctrines of warfare, how defense industrial policies are evolving in response to supply chain vulnerabilities, and how states are adapting to shifting deterrence dynamics in an increasingly complex security environment. The discussion will also address the risks associated with arms races in emerging domains such as cyber and space, as well as the growing role of private defense contractors and dual-use technologies. Ultimately, the session will assess whether ongoing modernization trends are contributing to a more stable balance of power or accelerating fragmentation and strategic competition within the global security order.
Discussion Themes:
- How is accelerating technological change reshaping global military and defense modernization, particularly in relation to artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, cyber capabilities, and space-based assets?
- In what ways are shifting geopolitical dynamics and multipolar competition redefining deterrence and influencing defense modernization strategies among major and emerging powers?
- How are defense industrial policies and supply chain security concerns transforming national approaches to military readiness and strategic resilience?
- Do current trends in military modernization point toward a more stable global deterrence environment, or are they accelerating fragmentation and intensifying strategic competition in the international security order?