Midrats

Today we’re going to take a friend’s Substack post and turn it into one of the best podcast hours you’ll have this summer…and maybe give you some ideas about books you need to take with you for the July 4th weekend.From Claude’s May 23rd Substack:From the gun decks of HMS Indefatigable to the command chair of a futuristic starship, the portrayal of naval officers in fiction has evolved alongside society's changing views of leadership, warfare, and heroism. The archetype of the naval officer has been shaped not only by historical precedent but also by the imaginative needs of authors responding to their times.Show Links:The Fictional Officer Corps: From Hornblower to Stark, by Claude BerubeThe Connor Stark novels and other books, by Claude BerubeThe Hornblower Series, by C. S. ForesterAubrey/Maturin Novels, by Patrick O'BrianThe Caine Mutiny, by Herman WoukStar Trek: The Original SeriesRun Silent, Run Deep, by Edward L. BeachHonor Harrington Series, by David WeberThe Winds of War, by Herman WoukMister Roberts, by Thomas HeggenWicked, by Gregory MaguireStar Wars’ Boba FettP.T. DeutermanMary CelesteSummaryIn this episode of Midrats, Sal, Mark, and Claude Berube discuss the evolution of naval fiction and its impact on leadership. They explore how naval characters in literature reflect societal changes and the complexities of leadership in both historical and modern contexts. The conversation delves into moral dilemmas faced by leaders, the significance of character development, and the challenges of internal rivalries within naval settings. Additionally, they touch on the importance of historical accuracy in fiction and the future of naval literature in a rapidly changing world.TakeawaysFiction serves as a unique tool for exploring leadership.Naval characters in literature evolve with societal changes.Moral dilemmas are central to understanding leadership.Internal rivalries can challenge leadership effectiveness.Historical accuracy enhances the depth of naval stories.The readership among young people is declining.Stories about the human condition resonate deeply with readers.The future of naval literature faces uncertainties.Understanding the past is essential for shaping future narratives.Chapters00:00: Introduction to the Conversation02:00: The Evolution of Naval Fiction04:03: Character Development in Naval Literature13:55: Leadership and Command in Fiction20:36: Moral Dilemmas in Naval Leadership25:40: The Future of Naval Literature28:46: The Evolution of Heroism at Sea31:06: Leadership Dynamics in Fiction and Reality35:27: Character Studies in Leadership41:02: Navigating Internal Rivalries46:24: The Changing Landscape of Naval Literature

Mark and I are back from most of May taking care of business!Time for a MIDRATS!Show LinksPentagon chief tells Asian allies: Raise defence spending to 5% of GDP like EuropeTom Shugart post on PRC ship in Norfolk, from APR 20241980s Strategic Homeporting InitiativeClaude Berube on OSS developing deep strike drone boats against Japanese bridges and tunnels in WW2Operation PigeonBat bombsThe Atlantic on Who Killed America’s Shipbuilding Industry?Korean Shipyard ModernizationNavy Secretary "Shocked and Dismayed" at Condition of Base Housing on GuamSummaryIn this episode, Sal and Mark discuss the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine War, focusing on Ukraine's innovative strategies and the implications for modern warfare. They explore the role of AI in military operations, the importance of strategic home porting, and the vulnerabilities in military infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the future of U.S. defense spending and the need to revitalize America's shipbuilding industry.TakeawaysThe Ukraine conflict has highlighted innovative military strategies.AI is becoming increasingly integrated into modern warfare.Strategic home porting is essential for national security.Military infrastructure vulnerabilities need urgent attention.Dispersing military assets can reduce risk in conflict scenarios.Revitalizing shipbuilding is crucial for military readiness.Simplifying the acquisition process can enhance military capabilities.Caring for military personnel is a priority for effective defense.Lessons from Ukraine can inform future military strategies.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Overview of Current Events02:11: Analysis of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict06:35: Technological Advancements in Warfare12:18: Strategic Homeporting and Military Vulnerabilities18:42: Lessons from Historical Military Engagements24:51: Infrastructure and Operational Challenges32:09: Rebuilding Naval Bases and Infrastructure34:39: Hardening National Defense and Infrastructure36:08: Geopolitical Concerns: China and Russia40:18: Shipbuilding Industry Challenges and Innovations46:13: Defense Spending and Budget Allocation50:36: Leadership and Accountability in Defense Programs53:32: The Future of Warfare and Military Strategy

The People’s Republic of China continues to expand its already well-established contestation of ownership, access, and control of ports throughout the world.They have done this in parallel with building the world’s largest navy and a diverse set of military capabilities clearly designed with one purpose—defeating the U.S. military in the Indo-Pacific.Returning to Midrats to discuss this and related topics is be T. X. Hammes.T.X. is a distinguished research fellow at the Center for Strategic Research, National Defense University. He served 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.Show LinksChina’s exploitation of overseas ports and basesKratos XQ-58 ValkyrieAres anti-ship cruise missileTyphonMWI Podcast: The Future Battlefield, from Europe to the Indo-PacificThe Eastern FrontSummaryIn this conversation, Sal, Mark, and T.X. Hammes discuss the implications of China's global expansion, particularly its military strategy and naval capabilities. They explore how China is leveraging its control over ports and logistics to challenge U.S. dominance in the Indo-Pacific. The discussion also delves into operational planning assumptions for potential conflict with China, the historical context of long wars, and the challenges facing U.S. military readiness. Innovative solutions for naval warfare, the importance of economic exhaustion and sea control, and the role of mines in modern warfare are also examined. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of military technology and the potential for leveraging civilian resources in military operations.TakeawaysChina's global expansion poses significant challenges to U.S. interests.The U.S. Navy must adapt to China's growing naval capabilities.China's unconventional use of ports can disrupt global trade.Long wars are historically common between healthy powers.U.S. military readiness is not sufficient for a prolonged conflict.Innovative solutions like missile barges could enhance naval warfare.Economic exhaustion is a critical factor in long-term conflicts.Mines could play a crucial role in modern naval strategy.The focus should shift from platforms to payloads in military planning.Leveraging civilian resources can enhance military capabilities.Chapters00:00: Introduction to China's Global Expansion02:36: China's Naval Capabilities and Strategic Ports10:42: Planning Assumptions for Potential Conflict21:29: Control of the Sea and Economic Exhaustion30:26: Utilizing Merchant Ships in Warfare33:27: Investing in Future Military Technologies35:44: Innovative Solutions for Pacific Defense40:11: The Role of Unmanned Systems in Modern Warfare42:57: Lessons from the Russo-Ukrainian War44:59: Adapting Combined Arms for Modern Conflicts48:44: The Importance of Flexibility in Naval Operations53:10: Building a Resilient Merchant Fleet55:57: Exploring New Strategies for Warfare01:00:50: Future Directions in Military Strategy

With each new administration, there is opportunity for change and reform. In the new Trump Administration, reform isn’t seen as a secondary effect of a leadership change but as a requirement.What reform options should the new Pentagon leadership explore under the Trump Administration?Joining us to discuss this and related topics is Gary Anderson, Colonel, USMC (Ret.). A starting point for our conversation will be his recent article in The American Spectator, Real Military Reform Begins: Will Pete Hegseth be able to reverse our military’s decline.Gary retired as the chief of staff of the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab. He served as a special adviser to the deputy secretary of defense. He is an adjunct professor at George Washington University.SummaryIn this episode, Sal and Mark engage with Gary Anderson to discuss the current state of America's military, focusing on the need for reform and the implications of the Goldwater-Nichols Act. They explore the challenges facing the Marine Corps and Navy, the importance of revitalizing the defense industrial base, and the recent uptick in military morale and recruitment. The conversation also critiques the Force Design 2030 initiative and emphasizes the need for a more effective military education system and logistics support.TakeawaysAmerica's military has been adrift for some time.The rot in military effectiveness goes back decades.The Goldwater-Nichols Act has had unintended consequences.Careerism and ticket-punching are detrimental to military readiness.Morale among military personnel is currently high.The defense industrial base needs revitalization to keep up with adversaries.Military education has shifted focus away from essential warfighting skills.Logistics has been neglected in recent military operations.War games should not be used to validate military concepts without scrutiny.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Military Reform and Change02:35: The State of America's Military10:42: Challenges in Military Education and Careerism18:36: The Need for Honest Feedback in Military Leadership26:16: Revitalizing the Defense Industrial Base29:15: Addressing the Crisis in Submarine Maintenance32:12: Revitalizing the Fleet: Innovative Solutions for Shipbuilding36:18: The Drone Dilemma: Quality vs. Quantity in Warfare41:04: Logistics in Modern Warfare: Lessons from the Past45:17: Morale in the Military: A Shift in Attitude51:15: Leadership Changes: Navigating New Directions54:00: Accountability in Military Decisions: The Need for Integrity58:44: War Games and Military Strategy: The Importance of Honest Analysis

Many frustrated by the perceived lack of understanding of our nation’s maritime heritage requirements want new leaders with fresh ideas, unburdened by legacy entanglements. It is hoped that a younger cohort with military experience, preferably naval, in the House of Representatives and the Senate who bring to the job an additional background in business and industry will emerge to promote constructive change.Today’s guest fits the bill perfectly: the new Senator from Montana, Senator Tim Sheehy.Tim Sheehy is a father, husband, combat veteran, patriot, and an entrepreneur. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy class of 2008 with a B.S. in History, Tim completed several deployments and hundreds of missions as a US Navy SEAL Officer and Team Leader, deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and the Pacific region. Tim was honored to serve alongside many American heroes and was involved in dozens of engagements with enemy forces, earning him multiple combat decorations. Additionally, Tim completed a joint tour with Army Special Operations forces where he was privileged to complete US Army Ranger School and serve alongside the 5th Special Forces Group, 75th Ranger Regiment and other units within US Army Special Operations Command.Tim completed his active duty service as a mini submarine pilot and navigator specializing in sensitive undersea operations. After his active duty service, Tim fulfilled reserve duty as a recruiter and assessor for future naval officers. Tim was honorably discharged from the Naval Reserve in 2019.In 2014, Tim founded Belgrade-based Bridger Aerospace with all of his savings and an all-veteran team. Under his leadership, Bridger Aerospace and its sister company, Ascent Vision Technologies experienced rapid growth and created hundreds of Montana jobs. Ascent Vision Technologies was acquired by CACI in 2020, and Bridger Aerospace went public on the NASDAQ in 2023.Tim sits on the Senate Armed Services, Veterans’ Affairs, and Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.SummaryIn this conversation, Senator Tim Sheehy discusses his journey from Naval Academy graduate to U.S. Senator, emphasizing the need for a new generation of leaders in the maritime domain. He highlights the importance of revitalizing the Navy, addressing challenges in shipbuilding, and fostering bipartisan support for maritime strength. The discussion also touches on the need for innovation in naval strategy and acquisition processes, advocating for a shift in mindset towards risk-taking and adaptability in the face of modern challenges.Show LinksOperation Red WingsSix FrigatesThe Fall of KabulTakeawaysTim shares his journey from the Naval Academy to the Senate.The importance of revitalizing the Navy is highlighted.Challenges in shipbuilding and acquisition processes are discussed.Bipartisan support for maritime strength is crucial.Innovation in naval strategy is necessary for future readiness.Quantity in naval assets is as important as quality.A new shipbuilding paradigm is needed to meet modern demands.Risk-taking should be encouraged in military leadership.The Navy's historical context is essential for understanding current challenges.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Maritime Challenges and New Perspectives12:47: Senator Tim Sheehy's Journey: From Navy to Politics18:44: Revitalizing the Navy: Challenges and Opportunities24:37: Acquisition Paradigms and the Future of Naval Strategy

Dr. Sebastian Bruns, a seapower expert and maritime strategist from Kiel University, discusses NATO's evolving strategies in the Baltic Sea. He highlights the geopolitical tensions stemming from Russian activities and critiques European complacency. The conversation dives into unconventional naval challenges, including Russia's shadow fleets and missile deployments. Sebastian also emphasizes NATO's need for enhanced cooperation and the importance of integrating military data to strengthen maritime strategies, all while navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes.

SummarySal and Mark delve into the current state of the U.S. Navy, discussing the size and capabilities of the fleet, the challenges of operating as a two-ocean Navy, and the potential for utilizing alternative naval assets such as offshore supply vessels. They explore the ongoing debate between manned and unmanned aircraft. Discussed some of the lessons on how to turn around a military quickly using the transition from the 1970s malaise, to the Reagan Era victory in the Cold War. The discussion also touches on military leadership, morale, and the strategic importance of aircraft carriers in contemporary military operations.Show Links"Crash Fleet: An Emergency Shipbuilding Program”, by Lieutenant Commander Brian Adornato, USNR.German army struggles to get Gen Z recruits ‘ready for war’, by Laura Pitel.TakeawaysThe U.S. Navy's fleet size is often overestimated.The Navy operates as a two-ocean force, complicating logistics.Alternative naval assets could enhance defense capabilities.The future of naval warfare will involve a mix of manned and unmanned systems.Aircraft carriers remain a cornerstone of naval power.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Overview of the Fleet Discussion01:28: Analyzing the Current Size of the Navy05:40: Challenges of a Two-Ocean Navy07:48: Exploring Alternative Naval Platforms11:58: Possible Role of Offshore Supply Vessels14:47: Historical Context and Lessons Learned18:20: Rethinking Naval Strategy and Resources21:22: Utilizing Reserve Forces Effectively25:02: Future of Aircraft Carriers and Naval Aviation29:59: The Future of Manned vs. Unmanned Aircraft34:38: Military Resource Allocation and Strategy39:35: Generational Perspectives on Military Service in the post Vietnam recovery44:39: Leadership and Military Morale

The origin story of the United States of America begins, in no small part, with maritime trade issues. Most of the declared and many of the undeclared, wars our nation has fought can be traced to the safety of our maritime commerce and unfettered access to the open seas.Look at any map, and you’ll see we have oceans to the east and west of us, between our nation and its markets, allies, and competitors on the world stage.Today we’re going to cast a wide net on that world view with returning guest, Ross Kennedy.Ross is a logistics and trade expert who has worked at the intersection of global trade, supply chains, and national security for two decades in support of United States national interests and private-sector clients.SummaryThis conversation delves into the intricate relationship between maritime trade, national security, and the evolving policies under the new administration. Ross Kennedy, a logistics and trade expert, discusses the historical context of maritime commerce in the U.S., the challenges of reindustrialization, and the need for a coordinated approach among various stakeholders in the maritime sector. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of investing in domestic shipbuilding capabilities, addressing supply chain issues, and recognizing strategic choke points in global trade. Kennedy advocates for innovative funding mechanisms and a holistic strategy to revitalize the maritime industry and ensure national security.TakeawaysThe U.S. maritime industry is crucial for national security.90% of global trade is conducted via maritime routes.A coordinated approach among stakeholders is essential.Reindustrialization requires long-term planning and investment.Funding mechanisms must support small businesses in the maritime sector.Disused shipyards can be revitalized for modern needs.Strategic choke points are vital for U.S. interests.Investing in domestic capabilities is a priority.Healthy debate is necessary for effective policy-making.The Arctic route poses significant geopolitical challenges.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Maritime Trade and National Security02:46: The Impact of the New Administration on Maritime Policies08:11: The Role of Stakeholders in Shipbuilding13:58: Challenges in Maritime Infrastructure and Supply Chains20:25: Innovative Approaches to Shipbuilding and Economic Zones25:26: The Future of Maritime Commerce and Procurement Reform27:16: Decoupling Funding from National Security29:18: Investing in Domestic Capabilities31:51: Reimagining Maritime Logistics35:05: Reviving Disused Shipyards38:30: Strategic Maritime Infrastructure43:44: Choke Points and Global Trade50:27: Closing Thoughts

Having trouble keeping up with all the developments in the national security realm over the last two months?Well, let not your heart be troubled, Sal & Mark are here for you this week with the ever-popular Midrats Melee format!No guest this week for the podcast, just your two humble hosts, solving the world’s problems in 60-minutes.Show LinksRear Admiral William Daly, USN OPNAV N96 at Surface Navy Association’s annual symposium: quotes can be found at link 1 and link 2.TRANSCOM’s purchase of used cargo ships.Substack on medium USV.Trump’s Gunboats, The National Interest, December 2016, by Claude Berube, and Mark Tempest.Substack on The Ship’s Act, December 2024.SummaryIn this episode of MidRats, Sal and Mark discuss the current state of naval infrastructure and the bipartisan Ships Act aimed at revitalizing shipbuilding in the U.S. They explore leadership changes within the Navy, the importance of unmanned vessels, and the potential for optimism in naval operations. The conversation also touches on geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict and North Korea's military developments, emphasizing the need for a robust maritime strategy.TakeawaysThe Ships Act has bipartisan support and aims to enhance naval infrastructure.Leadership changes in the executive and legislative branchs could positively impact shipbuilding efforts.There is optimism regarding the revitalization of the U.S. maritime industry.Unmanned vessels are seen as a crucial component of future naval strategy.Admiral Daly advocates for affordable and practical designs.The maritime industry can provide significant economic benefits across the U.S.The U.S. must adapt to lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict.The importance of recapturing intellectual capital from former military personnel.Sound Bites"It's an exciting thing to see.""We need hulls in the water.""We need to keep the money flowing."Chapters00:00: Introduction01:44: The Ships Act: A Bipartisan Initiative09:11: Challenges in Shipbuilding and Maintenance12:45: Historical Context: Lessons from WWII16:38: The Need for New Vessels and Innovation20:28: Admiral Daly's Vision for Unmanned Vessels23:56: Utilizing Naval Reserves for Unmanned Operations28:03: Conclusion and Future Directions30:01: Navigating Military Transitions32:57: Optimism in Maritime Strategy36:49: Challenges in Global Security39:05: The Syrian Crisis and Its Implications45:30: North Korea's Military Developments52:59: Lessons from the Ukraine Conflict

A firm and lasting peace treaty, a ceasefire, in or out of NATO, in or out of the EU, European or international peacekeeping forces, an unending slog, or Russian tanks in downtown Kyiv?What are the realistic…and unrealistic…options for Ukraine as they enter the 4th year of the Russo-Ukrainian War of 2022?Is the best path for Ukrainian security instead a new security architecture based on Ukrainian power itself?How do you create a framework that could produce a realistic peace, while giving Ukraine a deterrence from future conflict?Using her recent article in Foreign Affairs, Ukraine Must Guarantee Its Own Security, as a kicking off point for our conversation on these and related topics returning to Midrats will be Emma Ashford.Emma is a senior fellow with the Reimagining US Grand Strategy program at the Stimson Center, and the author of First Among Equals: U.S. Foreign Policy for a Multipolar World, forthcoming from Yale University Press.Showlink Ukraine Must Guarantee Its Own SecuritySummaryIn this conversation, Sal, Mark, and Emma Ashford delve into the complexities of the Ukraine conflict, discussing historical agreements like the Budapest Memorandum, the implications of NATO membership, and the current geopolitical landscape. They explore the challenges of European defense strategies, the lessons from Finland's historical context, and the potential pathways to peace negotiations. The discussion emphasizes the need for Ukraine to build its own security capabilities while navigating the intricate dynamics of international relations.TakeawaysThe Budapest Memorandum's implications are still relevant today.NATO membership remains a contentious issue for Ukraine.European states have divergent threat perceptions affecting defense strategies.The concept of 'Bluff and Pray' highlights European defense challenges.Lessons from Finland's Winter War can inform Ukraine's strategy.Ukraine must focus on internal capabilities for security.The US presence in Europe influences European defense initiatives.Negotiating peace involves complex territorial and sovereignty questions.European defense production can align with Ukraine's needs.The need for a unified European defense strategy is critical.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Context of the Ukraine Conflict03:59: The Budapest Memorandum and Its Implications06:41: NATO's Role and European Security Dynamics11:55: European Military Capabilities and Collective Action Problems18:25: Bluff and Pray: The Dilemma of European Deterrence20:52: The Risks of European Military Engagement in Ukraine28:10: NATO's Role in Ukraine's Security32:45: Ukraine's Self-Defense and Historical Parallels37:39: Models of Neutrality and Defense40:20: European Defense Production and Cooperation46:49: US Withdrawal Scenarios and European Responsibility51:19: Negotiating Peace: Territory, Arms, and Finance