The Centre for Defence & International Security Studies is a wholly independent organisation engaging in research, analysis, commentary and discussion on issues of significance within the broad context of international security. Established in 1990 as a unit of Lancaster University, it has been based, in a new independent form, at Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, since January 2004. It exists to conduct research, raise awareness and stimulate debate on a wide range of defence and security matters from both a national and international perspective.