Andrew Marshal

American defense strategist

Andrew W. Marshall (September 21, 1921 – March 26, 2019) was an influential American defense strategist and analyst. He served as the director of the Office of Net Assessment (ONA) at the United States Department of Defense from its inception in 1973 until his retirement in 2015. Marshall was known for his strategic foresight and his role in shaping U.S. defense policy during the Cold War and beyond.

Early Life and Education

Andrew Marshall was born in Detroit, Michigan. He attended the University of Chicago, where he studied under notable economists and strategists, including Milton Friedman and Herbert A. Simon. Marshall earned a bachelor's degree in economics, which laid the foundation for his analytical approach to defense strategy.

Career

RAND Corporation

Before joining the Department of Defense, Marshall worked at the RAND Corporation, a think tank that conducts research and analysis for the U.S. armed forces. At RAND, he was involved in pioneering studies on military strategy and the implications of technological advancements on warfare.

Office of Net Assessment

Andrew W. Marshall

In 1973, Marshall was appointed by then-Secretary of Defense James R. Schlesinger to lead the newly established Office of Net Assessment. The ONA was tasked with providing long-term strategic assessments and identifying emerging threats to U.S. national security. Under Marshall's leadership, the office became known for its innovative approaches to defense analysis and its focus on understanding the strategic intentions and capabilities of potential adversaries.

Marshall's work at the ONA emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive edge over adversaries through technological innovation and strategic foresight. He was instrumental in advocating for the development of advanced military technologies and the concept of the "Revolution in Military Affairs" (RMA), which highlighted the transformative impact of information technology on warfare.

Influence and Legacy

Marshall's influence extended beyond his official role, as he mentored several generations of defense analysts and strategists. His approach to strategic assessment, often referred to as "net assessment," became a key component of U.S. defense planning. Marshall's ability to anticipate future challenges and his emphasis on adaptability and innovation left a lasting impact on U.S. military strategy.

Retirement and Death

Andrew Marshall retired from the Office of Net Assessment in 2015, after more than four decades of service. He passed away on March 26, 2019, at the age of 97. His contributions to defense strategy and his role in shaping U.S. military policy continue to be recognized and studied by defense analysts and historians.

Related Pages

• Office of Net Assessment
• Revolution in Military Affairs
• RAND Corporation
• Cold War