Ep 93: Cold War II & the Race for Technological Supremacy with CrowdStrike Co-Founder Dmitri Alperovitch
Aug 22, 2024
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Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of CrowdStrike and expert in cybersecurity and national security, shares insights on the new Cold War dynamics between the U.S. and China. He discusses the parallels between Russia's actions in Ukraine and potential Chinese aggression towards Taiwan, even predicting a possible invasion timeline. Alperovitch emphasizes the need for the U.S. to maintain leadership in key technologies to prevent escalation. His entrepreneurial journey and lessons from cyber warfare further enrich this engaging discussion.
Dmitri Alperovitch highlights the similarities in strategic motivations between Russia's invasion of Ukraine and China's ambitions towards Taiwan, emphasizing the risks involved.
The rise of cyber and traditional espionage activities, particularly from China, poses significant national security threats, necessitating urgent protective measures from the U.S.
Alperovitch underscores the importance of maintaining technological supremacy in key sectors, such as AI and cybersecurity, to counter China's growing influence.
Deep dives
The Rise of Cold War II
A new cold war, referred to as Cold War II, has emerged, primarily in the context of the U.S.-China relationship. Central to this new era is a global competition for supremacy across various domains, including military, technology, and geopolitics. The technological aspect of this competition is especially evident in the race for advancements in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, reflecting a shift from traditional rivalry to modern warfare. Notably, espionage activities, both cyber and traditional, have escalated significantly, with the FBI reporting a surge in Chinese espionage compared to the first Cold War.
The Threat of Cyber Warfare
Cyber warfare has become a critical concern in this new cold war, with threats from adversaries like China and Russia posing significant risks to national security. Particular attention has been drawn to the intrusion attempts by the Chinese military into American infrastructure, such as small utility organizations, primarily to maintain access in case of future conflict. This reconnaissance threat has raised alarms about the vulnerabilities in the U.S. electrical grid and other critical systems. Experts argue that protecting these sectors requires urgent government funding and strategic planning to deter potential disruptions.
Past and Present: The Cold War Comparison
The similarities between the current geopolitical tensions and the first Cold War are striking, with direct parallels drawn between the two eras. Both conflicts are characterized by a race for military power, economic dominance, and technological superiority, creating a multifaceted struggle that plays out globally. Additionally, espionage and propaganda efforts are common tactics in both contexts, highlighting the ideological and strategic battles at stake. The consequences of this ongoing rivalry could reshape global dynamics, reminiscent of the competition seen during the mid-20th century.
China's Military Aspirations and Global Influence
China’s ambitions extend to Taiwan, with strategic calculations indicating that a potential invasion might align with Xi Jinping's long-term goals and national pride. The military complexities of such an operation are daunting, as an invasion would require extensive logistical and tactical considerations due to Taiwan's geographical challenges. The United States plays a crucial role in deterrence, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent aggression and protect regional stability. Furthermore, China’s increasing military capabilities, combined with its ideological persistence, position it as a formidable opponent to U.S. interests.
Opportunities and Innovations Against China
Despite the challenges posed by China, there is optimism about America's potential advantages stemming from its culture of innovation and strategic thinking. Focusing on sectors like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy can provide the U.S. with the tools needed to maintain a competitive edge. Moreover, the ability to attract and nurture top talent through immigration remains a significant strength that can enhance technological advancements. Building on these innovations and ensuring strategic investments can help the U.S. sustain its position and thrive in the unfolding global competition.
He predicted Vladimir Putin would attack Ukraine months before it happened. Now he believes similar signals foreshadow China invading Taiwan. What similarities does he see? When and how would a Chinese incursion unfold? And what can the U.S. do to deter this conflict?This week, we're joined by Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of web security giant CrowdStrike, who departed the firm several years ago to focus on the intersection of technology, national security, and global competition as the Chairman of the Silverado Policy Accelerator. He's the author of an important new book: "World on the Brink: How America Can Beat China in the Race for the Twenty-First Century."
We begin with Dmitri's entrepreneurial journey, from building a multi-billion dollar cyber security firm to lessons learned on the front lines of Chinese and Russian cyber attacks. Next, we discuss Dmitri's new book, his Cold War II thesis, and the comparative strengths and weaknesses between China and the U.S. He lays out Putin's rationale for attacking Ukraine and the similarities he sees with Xi Jinping and Taiwan — and even predicts the date China might invade! Finally, he explains the four key technologies where the U.S. must remain ahead of China to prevent a Cold War from turning hot.
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