Publication

The Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) is a legislated congressional mandate scheduled to occur every four years. The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is directed to conduct a comprehensive examination of the national defense strategy, force structure, force modernization plan, infrastructure, budget plan, and other elements of the defense program and policies of the United States. The focus of the examination is on determining and expressing the defense strategy of the United States and establishing a defense program for the next 20 years. The intent of the QDR is to provide a blueprint for a balanced and affordable, as well as strategy and capabilities-based defense program. The QDR is a collaborative effort between the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff, with extensive participation from all of the military services and the combatant commands.