Professor Michael Clarke is a leading military analyst and commentator, widely recognised for his expertise on defence and security issues in the United Kingdom and beyond. He currently serves as a Defence and Security Analyst for Sky News, offering in-depth analysis of global conflicts and strategic developments. Alongside his media role, he is a Visiting Professor at both King’s College London and the University of Exeter, where he continues to contribute to academic and policy debates on defence and international security.
Michael began his academic career after graduating from Aberystwyth University. He went on to establish the Centre for Defence Studies and the International Policy Institute, cementing his reputation as a thought leader in the field. At King’s College London, he became Professor of Defence Studies in 1995 and later served as Deputy Vice-Principal. His early academic work laid the groundwork for shaping modern approaches to defence policy and strategic analysis, with a focus on the UK’s evolving role in global security.
In 2007, Michael was appointed Director-General of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), leading it for eight years and building its global standing as a premier think tank for defence and security. Alongside this, from 1997 to 2024, he served as a specialist adviser to several parliamentary committees, providing impartial expertise on defence and foreign policy. He has also contributed his knowledge as a member of the Chief of Defence Staff’s Advisory Board and the Prime Minister’s National Security Forum. In recognition of his contributions, he has been named a Distinguished Fellow at RUSI and is a Fellow of King’s College London, Aberystwyth University, and the Royal College of Defence Studies.
Today, Michael continues to shape the debate on the most pressing security challenges. His research focuses on UK defence transformation, European security within NATO, and the implications of the war in Ukraine for the international order. His most recent book, 'Great British Commanders: Leadership, Strategy and Luck' (2024), reflects his enduring interest in leadership and strategy. With decades of experience spanning academia, government, and the media, he remains one of the most respected and influential voices in defence and security analysis.
