The Critical Threats Project (CTP), also known as Critical Threats, is a non-partisan research organization and think tank operated by the American Enterprise Institute (AEI). Founded in 2009 by military analyst Frederick Kagan, who continues to serve as its director, CTP is a research initiative focused on analyzing global security threats and conflicts of concern to the United States. Its primary objectives include providing timely, accurate information to the public, mainstream media, and policymakers to inform decision-making on national security issues. CTP emphasizes the use of open-source intelligence, applying 'intelligence community-type tradecraft and standards' to ensure rigorous analysis without relying on classified sources.

CTP is structured around specialized analytical teams. One team concentrates on Iran, examining its internal dynamics, regional influence, and external relations, including proxy networks and nuclear activities. The other team focuses on Salafi-jihadist groups, with particular attention to operations in Africa, as well as in the Middle East regions such as Yemen, Iraq, and Syria. This division allows for in-depth, focused research on high-priority threats, producing reports, maps, briefings, and interactive tools to visualize and explain complex geopolitical situations.

The organization collaborates with other institutions to enhance its impact, notably partnering with the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) to deliver joint updates on the Russo-Ukrainian war since 2022. CTP's work has been influential in shaping public discourse and policy discussions on counterterrorism, Middle East stability, and great-power competition, positioning it as a key resource within the national security think tank community.