The Changing Character of War: Strategy, Statecraft, and Technology Centre (CCW-SST) is an interdisciplinary research centre dedicated to the study of armed conflict, strategic studies, governance of defence and intelligence, and the impact of technological change. It is part of the University of Oxford and based at Pembroke College. Alongside research projects and visiting fellowships, the Centre provides bespoke policy advice and conducts strategic net assessment.

Our Sponsors CCW has been generously funded by the Ax:Son Johnson Institute. Specific projects are supported by grants from the US and UK governments. The Centre is also pleased to announce that new research fellows will be appointed through the generosity of Dr Thomas Kaplan and the formation of the Recanati-Kaplan Minerva Institute.has been generously funded by the Ax:Son Johnson Institute. Specific projects are funded by grants received from the US and UK Governments. We are delighted to announce that new research fellows will be appointed thanks to the generosity of Dr Thomas Kaplan and the formation of the Recanati-Kaplan Minerva Institute.

The Oxford Centre for the Study of War Founded in 2003, CCW-SST examines developments in armed conflict within the wider context of strategy, state power, international relations, foreign policy, and technological change. It brings together scholars from a broad range of disciplines. Based in the multidisciplinary environment of Pembroke College, the Centre has developed strong links with other Oxford centres of excellence. Its work examines change through the analysis of practice, conceptual development, and theoretical foundations.

Our Global Links CCW-SST has established connections with institutions around the world that conduct research into war, strategy, deterrence, statecraft, and technological transformation. We work with individuals and institutions worldwide, including the Netherlands Defence Academy, SAIS at Johns Hopkins, the NATO Defence College, the Norwegian National Defence University and Staff College, and Hitotsubashi University in Tokyo. It is also developing new partnerships in Australia, the United States, and Europe.

Our Educational Purpose We strengthen the quality and impact of our research by inviting selected academics and qualified practitioners to serve as visiting research fellows, while non-resident fellows collaborate with the Centre on specific research projects. The Centre contributes to the intellectual life of Pembroke College and the University of Oxford through public events, DPhil supervision, the Foreign Service Programme, and contributions to master’s and undergraduate teaching.

Our Ethos The Centre’s research aims to produce work of the highest quality and rigour, addressing significant themes and challenges arising from the study of war, strategy, statecraft, and emerging technologies. We focus on analysing the dynamics of change. Our comprehensive, cross-disciplinary approach is designed to deepen understanding and support the creation of robust strategic net assessments.