Jonathan Hackett, a seasoned U.S. Marine with two decades in intelligence and authoring 'Theory of Irregular War,' joins Dr. Sandor Fabian, a former Hungarian Special Forces officer and defense contractor, to dissect irregular warfare. They introduce the concept of the 'dysfunctional sovereign' and critique U.S. military doctrine. Key discussions include the emotional dimensions of conflict, strategies for small nations, and the necessity of adapting military approaches by learning from historical precedents and diverse methodologies.
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insights INSIGHT
Varied Definitions of Irregular Warfare
Irregular warfare definitions vary widely, even within the DoD.
Jonathan Hackett's book offers a new perspective, focusing on the "dysfunctional sovereign."
question_answer ANECDOTE
Hackett's Motivation
Jonathan Hackett's experience in Afghanistan and Iraq revealed recycled strategies.
This observation prompted his research into a new theory of irregular war.
insights INSIGHT
Irregular War vs. Warfare
Irregular war is about why a war is fought, not how it is fought.
Jonathan Hackett's theory centers on the concept of the "dysfunctional sovereign."
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In 'War Is a Racket,' Smedley D. Butler offers a searing indictment of the true, profit-driven nature of warfare. Having seen the gruesome realities of combat firsthand, Butler unveils a shocking exposé on how wars are deliberately fomented to line the pockets of the elite. He challenges the noble façades often wrapped around military conflicts and invites readers to question the motives behind global battles. The book highlights how the business of war thrives on the sacrifices of soldiers and taxpayers, benefiting powerful industrialists and corporations. Butler also examines the intricate connections between government officials and major corporations that drive war policies for financial gain[1][3][4].
Special Operations
Special Operations
Admiral Bill McRaven
Irregular Warfare the Future Military Strategy for Small States
Irregular Warfare the Future Military Strategy for Small States
Sándor Fabian
Theory of Irregular War
Theory of Irregular War
Jonathan W. Hackett
On war
Carl Von Clausewitz
Carl von Clausewitz's "On War" is a seminal work on military strategy, exploring the complex interplay of military, political, and social factors in warfare. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the nature of war as a dynamic and unpredictable phenomenon. The book delves into various aspects of military strategy, including the role of chance, the importance of morale, and the relationship between war and politics. Its enduring influence is evident in its continued relevance to military studies, international relations, and strategic thinking. It remains a cornerstone of military theory.
Second Treatise on Government
John Locke
In the 'Second Treatise of Government', Locke critiques the divine right of kings and argues for a more civilized society based on natural rights and contract theory. He defines political power as the right to make laws for the protection and regulation of property, emphasizing that legitimate governments must have the consent of the people. Locke also discusses the state of nature, the rise of property and civilization, and the right of revolution, advocating for a system with separate legislative, executive, and judicial powers to ensure the protection of life, liberty, and property[2][4][5].
On Guerrilla Warfare
Yu Chi Chan
Mao Zedong
In this book, Mao Zedong argues for the extensive use of guerrilla warfare as a necessary strategy for the Chinese to resist Japanese invasion during the Second Sino-Japanese War. He explains that guerrilla warfare is a powerful tool that can only succeed if employed by revolutionaries and if it is integrated with regular military operations. The book covers various aspects of guerrilla warfare, including its historical context, organization, and the political and military relationships between guerrilla and regular forces. Mao emphasizes the importance of the support of the local population and the need for guerrilla units to be self-disciplined and committed to the revolutionary cause[3][4][5].
Theory of International Politics
Kenneth Waltz
In 'Theory of International Politics', Kenneth Waltz develops a structural realist theory, known as neorealism, to explain international relations. Waltz argues that the international system is characterized by anarchy, where states are functionally undifferentiated and lack a central authority. This anarchy leads states to prioritize their security above other goals, resulting in security competition and the formation of balances of power. The book critiques reductionist approaches and emphasizes the importance of system-level processes in understanding state behavior. It has been highly influential in the field of international relations, causing a significant discursive transformation and is widely regarded as a classic text[1][4][5].
Episode 122 examines a unique theory on Irregular War that challenges both historical and contemporary frameworks on the topic. The guests conduct an in-depth discussion and debate over the complexities of Irregular War and its implications for the U.S. in future conflicts throughout the globe.
Our guests define and discuss the various terminology commonly used amongst the irregular warfare community as the foundation for introducing the concept of the “dysfunctional sovereign.” They then debate the strengths and weaknesses of this theory of irregular war and its utility within the context of the current global threat environment. Our guests then provide insight into understanding the importance of both allied and adversarial perspectives on the subject, the shortcomings of current U.S. military doctrine related to irregular war, and how the U.S. should adapt its approach in the future. Lastly, they provide recommendations for how policymakers and practitioners can better approach irregular warfare in the future.
Jonathan Hackett is a U.S. Marine with two decades of experience running complex intelligence operations and special activities in dozens of countries across four continents. He finished his military career leading the only formal school in the Marine Corps making military advisors for our allies and partners. During his time in the Marine Corps, he held positions at the Defense Intelligence Agency, National Security Agency, and Special Operations Command prior to teaching in Dam Neck, Virginia. In addition to his book Theory of Irregular War, Jonathan writes extensively on security cooperation, irregular conflicts, and clandestine intelligence activities.
Dr. Sandor Fabian is a defense Contractor at Morgan6 LLC. supporting the Irregular Warfare Center as deputy regional advisor for Europe and Africa. Dr. Fabian is a former Hungarian Special Forces officer with 20+ years of military experience and has served in multiple national and international assignments including the Assessment and Evaluation Branch head at the NATO Special Operations Headquarters. Dr. Fabian has published numerous journal articles and op-eds on resistance, special operations, small countries’ defense frameworks, U.S. security assistance programs, and is the author of the book titled, Irregular Warfare: The future Military Strategy for Small States.
Irregular Warfare Podcast 
