Who is responsible for signing the National Defense Strategy (NDS)?

The National Defense Strategy (NDS) is a key document that outlines the strategic direction of the Department of Defense and defines how the United States intends to use its military forces and resources to achieve national security objectives. The responsibility for signing the NDS lies with the Secretary of Defense.

The Secretary of Defense has the authority and oversight required to integrate resources, strategies, and policies across the military branches and ensure that the NDS aligns with the broader goals of national security as determined by the President and other national leaders. This position is critical since the Secretary of Defense represents the military's collective interests in defense matters and provides direction that the Armed Forces will follow.

In contrast, while the President has a significant influence on the overall defense strategy and policy setting, the hands-on responsibility for drafting and signing the NDS is specifically designated to the Secretary of Defense to reflect the military's operational needs and strategic planning. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff provides military advice and support but does not have the authority to sign the NDS. Similarly, the Secretary of the Army is responsible for the Army's specific interests but does not sign the overarching NDS document.