Which of the following is a priority in the National Defense Strategy?

Defending the homeland is recognized as a foundational priority in the National Defense Strategy. This emphasis stems from the essential requirement of a nation to ensure the security and sovereignty of its own territory against potential threats. Prioritizing homeland defense means allocating resources and strategies to protect against both conventional and unconventional threats, including cyberattacks, terrorism, and other forms of aggression that could target critical infrastructure and the population.

By focusing on defending the homeland, the strategy acknowledges that maintaining a secure environment is vital for upholding national interests and is a prerequisite for engaging effectively in global security dynamics. This prioritization also reflects a commitment to resilience, ensuring that the U.S. remains prepared to respond to any crisis or conflict that may arise, thus safeguarding both the people and the nation's way of life.

In contrast, while promoting global trade, enhancing space capabilities, and leading NATO operations are important aspects of broader strategic goals, they do not directly address the immediate and fundamental responsibility of protecting the nation's borders and supporting national security interests. These elements can support defense objectives but are not the primary focus of the National Defense Strategy, which places first and foremost the defense of the homeland.