In today's dynamic and multipolar strategic environment, there is an increased risk of escalation of conflicts. This is partly due to the different ways in which state and non-state actors interpret and respond to the myriad challenges and opportunities of a much more turbulent global context. These differences in interpretation and response are largely rooted in cultural differences, because it is culture that forms the subconscious set of shared meanings that guide group behaviors and perceptions. Understanding culture in terms of deep, underlying assumptions and mindsets shared by state and non-state actors is essential for today's strategic military planner when attempting to predict conflict potential and plan for a effective conflict resolution. Culture is an important factor in counterinsurgency, irregular warfare, stability, humanitarian and reconstruction operations. Cultural factors influence all levels of interpersonal interactions. Religion and spirituality as a domain constitute the foundation of social order and shared identity. In some cultures, religion and religious leaders exert great influence on the strategic and political environment. Therefore, religion and spirituality within the Air Force's 12 cultural domains affect strategic communication during interactions with local leaders, military advisors, and key leadership engagements (KLEs). KLEs are extremely important in understanding cultural, religious and spiritual beliefs. Jeffrey Lantis said: “Political and cultural dynamics shape not only prevailing public sentiments, but also the development of political institutions.” The scope of political culture is shaped by many factors and religion is one...... middle of article...... Religious extremism creates an evolution in religious understanding. These extreme expressions of religion are common to the conflict landscape. Activist movements masked by religious orthodoxy justify the need to call on religious leaders and anthropologists for strategic guidance. The complexity of today's conflicts is exacerbated when religious leaders escalate conflicts with inflammatory language. Religion is often used as a tool to exploit and expand a strategic sphere of influence. The cultural importance of religion and spirituality provides an opportunity to connect, analyze and redefine the approach to military planning. The RLE is a tool available to the US military to build a new paradigm of strategic, economic, political and social change. Works Cited Lantis, Jeffery “Strategic Culture and National Security Policy” p 91. Ibid., 94.