national defense; national defence
Refers to a country's military and civil measures to protect itself from external threats. Common in political, military, and news contexts.
The national defense budget was increased.
National defense is one of the government's most important responsibilities.
The government announced a policy to strengthen national defense.
The Self-Defense Forces work to maintain national defense.
This information is not disclosed for national-defense reasons.
Many countries are increasing their defense budgets.
national defense forces; national security forces