A lot of that depends on Chuck Hagel, who, despite a testy nomination process, is likely to be confirmed as the new secretary of defense.

William Galston of The New Republic knocked one out of the park with his analysis, titled "Forget Iran—Chuck Hagel's toughest fight will be the Pentagon's budget."

From the post:

If Hagel gets the nod, he will have to recommend major strategic choices in the face of the Pentagon's budget constraints.