Irregular Warfare Podcast
Sneaky Wars in the Indo-Pacific
Nov 29, 2024
In this engaging discussion, national security expert Sean McFate, who has an extensive background in military service and private contracting, delves into the evolving nature of irregular warfare. He introduces the clever concept of 'sneaky war' and emphasizes the need for unconventional tactics against global adversaries like China. The conversation also highlights the rising influence of mercenaries like the Wagner Group and the crucial role of information warfare in modern conflicts, urging a sophisticated approach to combat disinformation.
52:20
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Quick takeaways
- The concept of 'sneaky war' illustrates the necessity of blending unconventional and conventional strategies to counter adversaries like China effectively.
- The rise of mercenaries, exemplified by the Wagner Group, highlights a significant shift in warfare dynamics, enabling states to engage with plausible deniability.
Deep dives
The Nature of Irregular Warfare
Irregular warfare is characterized by the fluidity of its definition, as it encompasses a range of tactics and strategies that do not fit conventional warfare molds. Both speakers emphasize that distinguishing between 'conventional' and 'irregular' is mostly a mental construct, which can impede strategic decision-making. True conflict dynamics often blur these lines, as adversaries like China adeptly exploit these misconceptions to gain an upper hand. Rather than falling into rigid classifications, it is more practical to recognize warfare as a continuous spectrum of conflict that necessitates adaptable responses.
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