Benjamin E. Mainardi

Benjamin E. Mainardi was an Analyst at the Center for Maritime Strategy. His research and analysis focused on maritime security, geopolitics, strategic studies, and wargaming. Mr. Mainardi served as the managing editor of the Center’s online journal, The MOC.

Prior to joining the Center, he interned with the U.S. National War College and Hudson Institute, supporting projects on grand strategy for the Department of Defense’s Office of Net Assessment. He has published widely on national security affairs, from the enduring relevance of the Punic Wars to the role of wargaming in enhancing civilian education. His work has featured in Strife, The Naval War College Review, The Strategy Bridge, Europe’s Edge, Military Strategy Magazine, Breaking Defense, RealClearDefense, The Diplomat, Realist Review, The MOC, and Defense Opinion.

Mr. Mainardi earned his M.A. in War Studies with distinction from King’s College London. His master’s thesis examined great power conflict and the intersection of limited wars and escalation dynamics. Additionally, he holds a B.A. from James Madison University where he double majored in International Affairs and Public Policy & Administration with minors in History and Political Science.