School of War Ep 268: Seth Jones on America’s Defense Industrial Crisis
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Jan 23, 2026 Seth Jones, an expert on defense industrial policy and the Harold Brown Chair at CSIS, dives into America's defense industrial crisis. He explores historical lessons from World War II, including Roosevelt's efficient mobilization strategies and the pivotal role of companies like GM and Ford. Jones highlights the need for a cultural shift in defense procurement, urging for increased investment in skilled trades and workforce development. He warns against Chinese competition and makes a compelling case for raising defense spending to safeguard national security.
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Production Determines Victory
- A flourishing industrial base wins coalition wars by outproducing rivals over time.
- Winston Churchill warned Britain in the 1930s that rearmament and production capacity are prerequisites for deterrence and victory.
Use The White House To Mobilize Industry
- Presidents must use direct executive authority to create organizations that cut bureaucracy and accelerate production.
- Roosevelt’s War Production Board and industrial leaders like William Knudsen show how to mobilize commercial capacity rapidly.
B-29 As Proof Of Industrial Urgency
- Boeing and partner firms built the B-29 at unprecedented scale and speed to meet Pacific war needs.
- The B-29 combined new aeronautical principles, pressurization, and huge payload to enable decisive strategic bombing.
