Which statement best captures the security strategy emphasis in the era of great-power competition, regarding counterterrorism?

• A. Focuses on unilateral CT actions with no partner involvement
• B. Emphasizes partner capacity-building, targeted CT operations, and competition with state threats.
• C. Shifts focus entirely to cyber warfare only
• D. Eliminates CT operations to reallocate to modernization

Answer: (B)

In the era of great-power competition, counterterrorism is pursued as part of a broader, alliance-based approach that combines capacity-building with targeted operations and places state competition at the forefront. This means working with partners to strengthen their CT capabilities, sharing intelligence and resources, and conducting precise operations where needed, rather than acting alone or in isolation. Building partner capacity helps sustain long-term security, reduces the burden on U.S. forces, and enhances resilience across regions, all while competing with state threats and shaping deterrence.

Unilateral CT actions with no partner involvement undermine coalition gains and burden-sharing, which modern strategy relies on. Focusing only on cyber warfare would miss the broader, multi-domain nature of CT and the practical need for on-the-ground intelligence, governance, and local partnerships. Eliminating CT operations to reallocate to modernization ignores ongoing transnational threats and the reality that CT remains a vital piece of maintaining stability while competing with powerful state actors.