Economist Podcasts

Trouble in paradise: US plans for Pacific war

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Aug 20, 2025
Vijay Vaitaswarian, Energy editor at The Economist, shares insights on the bright future of climate technology amidst geopolitical tensions. He discusses America's strategic military operations in the Pacific, specifically the revitalization of historic airfields like Tinian Island in response to rising challenges from China. Vaitaswarian highlights the transformative power of new energy solutions, including nuclear and geothermal technologies, energized by the Inflation Reduction Act. He touches on the intersection of climate innovation and energy security, setting the stage for a new era.
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ANECDOTE

Tinian's Runways Reclaimed

  • Anton LaGuardia visited Tinian and described bulldozers, resurfaced runways and jungle-reclaimed airfields being cleared.
  • He observed F-22s operating from a civilian airport alongside small planes, highlighting the island's revived military role.
INSIGHT

Marianas Arc Is A Strategic Sweet Spot

  • The Marianas arc gives the US strategically useful bases close to East Asia while remaining American territory.
  • That geography makes islands like Tinian valuable for operating within range of China yet under U.S. control.
INSIGHT

Agile Combat Employment Explains The Rebuild

  • The Air Force seeks a middle ground between range and proximity to China to balance risk and capability.
  • 'Agile combat employment' scatters and regroups forces to avoid being targeted and maintain operational flexibility.
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