We spent decades preparing for another 9/11. Another attack may look totally different

The attacks of September 11 fundamentally changed how the United States thinks about national security.

Over the past 25 years, we've invested enormous resources in aviation security, intelligence and counterterrorism to ensure it never happens again.

But threats evolve.

We don't get to choose how our adversaries attack us.

History suggests they'll look for the vulnerabilities we've overlooked.

And while we’ve bolstered our security and response capabilities, it’s very likely the next major conflict will find its way to our shores again with unconventional attacks on our homeland.

AMERICA BUILT A FORTRESS AFTER 9/11.

THEN THE THREAT STARTED HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT As we become more electronically interconnected and dependent, regardless of where the physical battles occur, the conflicts will extend domestically intent to cause disruption, panic, chaos and potential loss of lives.

The U.S. must be prepared for the evolution of threats.

Not designed to destroy buildings or critical infrastructure but instead designed to disrupt the core systems that allow the country to function.

There is no need to physically destroy our economic, emergency response, transportation and agriculture systems if a single act can render them severely compromised.

FOREIGN ENEMIES HAVE A SHOCKINGLY SIMPLE WAY TO TRACK US TROOPS OVERSEAS, LAWMAKERS WARN Our vulnerability is well documented because so much of modern life depends on a foundational core: knowing where things are.

In fact, it is an assumption so deeply embedded in everyday life that it is almost invisible.

Position underpins how trucks move across the country, how food is planted and harvested, how utilities restore power after disasters, how emergency responders reach people in need and how military forces maneuver, coordinate, and sustain operations.