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

In the first month of the new Trump Administration, much of the attention outside our borders has focused on Europe and the Middle East—the two regions that always seem to divert our focus from America’s greatest competitor, the People’s Republic of China (PRC). We often think of the challenge in terms of the most obvious arena—the Pacific—but it extends from the Arctic to Africa and, increasingly, to space.Returning to Midrats this Sunday to discuss the PRC’s challenge for the new administration is Dean Cheng.Dean Cheng, Senior Advisor, United States Institute of Peace; Non-resident Senior Fellow, Potomac Institute for Policy Studies; Non-resident Fellow, George Washington University Space Policy Institute.He recently retired after 13 years with the Heritage Foundation, where he was a senior research fellow on Chinese political and security affairs, and wrote on various aspects of Chinese foreign and defense policy.Prior to joining the Heritage Foundation, he was a senior analyst with the China Studies Division (previously, Project Asia) at CNA from 2001-2009. Before joining CNA, he was a senior analyst with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) from 1996-2001. From 1993-1995, he was an analyst with the US Congress’ Office of Technology Assessment in the International Security and Space Division, where he studied the Chinese defense industrial complex.He is the author of the book Cyber Dragon: Inside China’s Information Warfare and Cyber Operations (NY: Praeger Publishing, 2016), as well as a number of papers and book chapters examining various aspects of Chinese security affairs.Show LinksChina and the new Moon RaceHome Depot v. European UnionSummaryIn this conversation, Sal, Mark and Dean discuss the evolving global landscape with a focus on China's strategic ambitions in space, military capabilities, and economic strategies. They explore the implications of China's presence on the moon, its approach to international order, and the challenges posed by its cyber and nuclear capabilities. The discussion highlights the need for the U.S. to reassess its priorities in light of China's growing influence and the importance of strategic choices moving forward.TakeawaysChina is challenging the post-war international order established by the U.S.The U.S. needs to focus on China's ambitions in space.China's presence on the moon could redefine international norms.The Chinese view of engagement differs significantly from the U.S. perspective.China's cyber capabilities pose a significant threat to U.S. interests.The evolution of China's nuclear deterrence is a growing concern.China's demographic challenges may impact its long-term strategy.The U.S. must prioritize its strategic choices in response to China.China's economic espionage is a tool for technological advancement.The need for a coherent U.S. strategy to counter China's influence is critical.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Context of the Trump Administration’s First Month03:35: China's Global Challenge and Space Ambitions08:44: The Implications of China's Space Strategy17:33: China's Technological Advancements in Space24:32: Chinese Military Strategy and Information Dominance29:01: China's Strategic Maneuvers in the Pacific31:56: Cultural Perspectives: Engagement vs. Cooperation36:31: Cyber Warfare: China's Digital Strategies39:38: China's Evolving Nuclear Deterrence44:05: Demographic and Economic Challenges for China47:44: Shifting Focus: U.S. Foreign Policy and China51:57: Future Considerations: Prioritizing Global Threats

Returning to Midrats this week to discuss his latest non-fiction novel is Seth W.B. Folsom, Colonel, USMC (Ret.).From the Amazon page:Nothing Here Worth Dying For tells the story of his command of Task Force Lion—a “purpose-built” combat advisor team—and his frenetic 2017 deployment to Iraq’s Al Anbar Province. Charged with the daunting task of advising, assisting, and enabling the Iraqi Security Forces in their fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, Folsom and his team of Marines and sailors struggled to support their Iraqi partners in the Jazeera Operations Command while simultaneously grappling with their own leadership for their relevance on the battlefield.…As with the author’s previous books, Nothing Here Worth Dying For focuses on individual Marine actions at the tactical and operational levels while also addressing regional events that contributed to the overall narrative of the U.S. war in Iraq. Folsom describes his unpopular decision to prioritize his team members and their mission to support the Iraqi army above the desires of his own military service branch. As the final operation against ISIS in western Al Anbar gained steam, he questioned the wisdom of the military leadership to which he had dedicated his entire adult life.ShowlinksNothing Here Worth Dying ForThe Highway War: A Marine Company Commander in IraqIn the Gray Area: A Marine Advisor Team at WarWhere Youth and Laughter Go: With ‘the Cutting Edge in AfghanistanSummaryThis conversation delves into the complexities of military operations in Iraq, focusing on the formation and challenges faced by Task Force Lion during the fight against ISIS. Colonel Seth Folsom shares insights on the cultural dynamics, logistical feats, and the intricate relationships between various military and coalition forces. The discussion highlights the sacrifices made by service members and the ongoing questions about the purpose and impact of their missions.TakeawaysThe rise of ISIS in 2014 prompted a swift military response.Task Force Lion was formed from diverse units, creating unique challenges.Cultural differences between U.S. and Iraqi forces impacted operations.Logistical coordination was crucial for mission success.The PMF played a significant role in the fight against ISIS.Command structures were complex and often convoluted.The importance of building a cohesive team was emphasized.Leadership involved navigating various military and political dynamics.Sacrifices made by service members were a central theme.Reflections on the purpose of military engagement remain relevant.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Context of the Long War02:56: The Rise of ISIS and Initial Responses05:39: Building Task Force Lion08:12: Challenges of Individual Augments10:54: Mission Overview and Arrival in Iraq13:49: The Complex Landscape of Iraqi Forces16:12: The Role of PMF and Tribal Forces19:09: Navigating Command Structures and Relationships36:42: Challenges of Coalition Operations39:59: Authority and Responsibility in Combat40:54: Logistical Feats in a War Zone45:19: The Complexity of Joint Operations47:50: Cultural Differences in Military Operations55:17: Reflections on Purpose and SacrificeSeth W. B. Folsom is a retired Marine Corps colonel who served more than twenty-eight years in uniform. Throughout the Global War on Terror, he deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he commanded in combat at the company, battalion, and task force levels. A graduate of the University of Virginia, Naval Postgraduate School, and the Marine Corps War College, he is the author of “The Highway War: A Marine Company Commander in Iraq;” “In the Gray Area: A Marine Advisor Team at War;” “Where Youth and Laughter Go: With ‘the Cutting Edge in Afghanistan;” and “Nothing Here Worth Dying For: Task Force Lion in Iraq.” He, his family, and their needy, spoiled cat live in Southern California.

Does the US Navy have the right number and mix of amphibious ships, and are those ships being properly maintained?The Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) recent report to Congress explored this topic in depth, and today’s Midrats Podcast will delve into it further.From the summary of the report:Amphibious warfare ships are critical for Marine Corps missions, but the Navy has struggled to ensure they are available for operations and training. In some cases, ships in the amphibious fleet have not been available for years at a time. The Navy and Marine Corps are working to agree on a ship availability goal but have yet to complete a metrics-based analysis to support such a goal. Until the Navy completes this analysis, it risks jeopardizing its ability to align amphibious ship schedules with the Marine Corps units that deploy on them.As of March 2024, half of the amphibious fleet is in poor condition and these ships are not on track to meet their expected service lives.Our guests for the full hour to discuss the report and its implications will be two joint directors for the project, Shelby S. Oakley, Director, Contracting and National Security Acquisitions, and Diana Maurer Director, Defense Capabilities and Management at GAO.ShowlinksGAO Report: AMPHIBIOUS WARFARE FLEET Navy Needs to Complete Key Efforts to Better Ensure Ships Are Available for MarinesGAO Report: Navy Readiness: Actions Needed to Improve Support for Sailor-Led MaintenanceSummaryThe conversation delves into the critical state of the U.S. Navy's amphibious fleet, focusing on the challenges of ship maintenance, the role of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in assessing fleet readiness, and the ongoing controversy between the Navy and Marine Corps regarding ship availability. The discussion highlights the importance of metrics, accountability, and transparency in addressing these issues, as well as the need for a cultural shift within the Navy to prioritize maintenance and resource allocation effectively.TakeawaysMetrics and definitions of ship readiness need to be standardized.Cultural and bureaucratic challenges hinder effective maintenance practices.Accountability is essential for improving the Navy's operational readiness.Budgeting for maintenance is often deprioritized in favor of new acquisitions.Sailors are overworked and under-resourced, impacting their performance.The Navy must address root causes of maintenance issues to improve fleet readiness.Future leadership changes present an opportunity for reform in the Navy.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Context of the Discussion02:03: Understanding the GAO's Role in National Security09:35: Insights from the Fleet: Realities of Ship Maintenance14:49: Defining Ship Availability and Readiness18:15: The Need for Metrics and Accountability22:22: Challenges in Navy Bureaucracy and Culture30:04: Navigating Accountability in Navy Maintenance33:02: The Consequences of Deferred Maintenance36:53: Policy Challenges in Navy Maintenance43:09: Budgeting for Maintenance vs. New Acquisitions45:53: Cultural Attitudes Towards Manpower and Maintenance49:15: Realistic Expectations in Maintenance Planning54:34: Future Directions for Navy Reports and AccountabilityFull Guest BiosMs. Oakley is a Director in the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) Contracting and National Security Acquisitions team. In her role, she oversees GAO’s portfolio of work examining the most complex and expensive acquisitions within the federal government. Her portfolio includes Navy and Coast Guard Shipbuilding programs, DOD acquisition policy and oversight, and leading practices in product development. In addition, she is responsible for GAO’s annual work to assess the cost, schedule, and performance of DOD’s entire portfolio of major defense and middle-tier acquisition programs. Ms. Oakley previously served as a Director in GAO’s Natural Resources and Environment team where she led teams reviewing a range of nuclear security, policy, and nonproliferation related issues. From 2004 to 2015, Ms. Oakley led teams reviewing the activities of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with a focus on helping NASA improve its acquisition management practices. Her reviews covered key aspects of NASA’s operations, such as Space Shuttle workforce transition and sustainment of the International Space Station, as well as reviews of all major NASA systems including in-depth reviews of NASA’s human spaceflight programs and the James Webb Space Telescope. Ms. Oakley earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public and International Affairs and her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Washington and Jefferson College.Ms. Maurer is a Director in the U.S. Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) Defense Capabilities and Management team, where she currently leads GAO’s independent oversight of sustainment and readiness across the military services and the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Her recent work includes reviews of F-35 sustainment, Air Force and Army force generation, Navy ship maintenance, missile defense sustainment, Space Force readiness, and the mission capability of military aviation and surface ships. She has testified three dozen times before Congressional committees on a variety of issues including the F-35, military readiness, Navy ship maintenance, national drug control policy, and several DHS and DOJ management issues.Ms. Maurer was a Director in GAO’s Homeland Security and Justice team from 2009-2017, where she led GAO’s oversight of the federal prison system; the Secret Service, FBI and other federal law enforcement agencies; and DHS’s efforts to build a unified department. She worked from 2008-2009 as an Acting Director in GAO’s Natural Resource and Environment team. From 1993-2007, Ms. Maurer worked in GAO’s International team, where she led reviews of a variety of international security issues including efforts to combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Ms. Maurer began her GAO career in 1990 in GAO’s Detroit Regional Office.Ms. Maurer has an M.S. in national resource strategy from the National Defense University where she was recognized as a Distinguished Graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. Ms. Maurer also has an M.P.P in international public policy from the University of Michigan and a B.A. in international relations from Michigan State University.

When a report has an opening like this, you know you have to find a way to get the author on Midrats.As a nation, we are in an undeclared state of emergency.…This is a hot Cold War II. The West has empirically lost deterrence. We must respond to this emergency to regain it.We have a peer adversary: China. “Near-Peer” is a shibboleth, a euphemism to avoid the embarrassment of acknowledging we have peers when we were once peerless. That quote is from The Defense Reformation, written last October by Shyam Sankar the Chief Technology Officer for Palantir.So many of the issues my cohost and I have been covering on Midrats the last decade and a half; personnel reform, Goldwater-Nichols, COCOM reform, the accretion encumbered acquisition program, and more are not just addressed in Sankar’s 18 Thesis, as I outlined in my Substack on it a few months ago, he provides solutions and new approaches.Get a fresh cup of coffee, relax, and enjoy an impactful hour of conversation for those interested in reforming the US military towards a stronger, more responsive steward of our nation’s defense.SummaryIn this conversation, Sal, Mark, and Shyam Sankar discuss the need for innovation within the Department of Defense. They explore historical parallels, the importance of creativity, and the role a Silicon Valley mindset can have in national security. The discussion emphasizes the need for agility in budgeting, the impact of monopsony on procurement, and the significance of software in modern warfare. They also highlight the importance of founders and innovative thinking in driving change within the defense sector.TakeawaysThe historical context of the Reformation can inform modern defense strategies.Creativity and innovation are essential for overcoming bureaucratic structures in defense.Silicon Valley's involvement in defense technology is crucial for national security.Lessons from the automotive industry can be applied to improve defense procurement.Founders play a vital role in driving innovation and change in organizations.People, processes, and policies must be aligned to optimize defense operations.Monopsony in defense procurement limits competition and innovation.Agility in budgeting is necessary to respond to changing defense needs.Stockpiles are less important than the ability to produce weapons quickly.Software is a key component in achieving asymmetric advantages in warfare.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Defense Reformation03:21: Historical Context: The Reformation and Defense Reform06:18: Creativity and Innovation in Defense09:04: The Role of Silicon Valley in National Security11:42: The Legacy of McNamara and Defense Management14:30: Protecting Innovative Personalities in Defense17:14: The Need for Modernization in Defense Policies20:05: Monopsony in Defense Procurement22:59: Encouraging Founders and Innovation in Defense32:36: The Nature of Venture Capital and Innovation33:08: Learning from Failure: The SpaceX Approach34:21: Breaking Down Bureaucracy: The Need for Reinvention36:24: Institutionalizing Rebellion: Encouraging Innovation38:46: Leveraging Free Market Principles in Military Operations41:06: The Role of Combatant Commanders in Defense Budgeting43:09: Reassessing Cost-Plus Contracting in Defense46:23: The Need for Agility in Budget Processes49:11: The Importance of Production Over Stockpiles52:58: Empowering Decision-Making in Military Leadership57:41: Harnessing Software as a National Superpower

There is almost a cottage industry in appreciating the decades-long shortfall in America’s maritime industrial base for shipbuilding and repair.After more than a decade of self-delusion in labeling the People’s Republic of China (PRC) as merely a ‘Pacing Challenge’, people are increasingly waking up to the fact that the PRC has overtaken the USA in the maritime arena—a domain in which we were globally unchallenged since the end of WWII.When considering both its vast commercial capacity and its development of the world’s largest navy, it is a fair argument to make that the maritime challenge posed by the PRC now eclipses the threat posed by the Soviet Union at its peak.With time being short, are there solutions? There are, as outlined by our guests for today’s Midrats, Michael Roberts & Bryan Clark and their report Shoring Up the Foundation: Affordable Approaches to Improve US and Allied Shipbuilding and Ship Repair from The Hudson Institute.Mike Roberts joined the Hudson Institute beginning in 2022. Before then Mike was the general counsel and a senior leader with Crowley Maritime, a top American shipping company, and president of the American Maritime Partnership. His focus is on commercial shipping and shipbuilding industries, and specifically, how fundamental changes in US maritime policies are needed to compete with China.Bryan Clark is a senior fellow and director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at Hudson Institute. He studies naval operations, cyber and electromagnetic warfare, autonomous systems, military competitions, and wargaming. He is a retired enlisted and officer submariner and his last job in the Navy was as Commander’s Action Group Director for the CNO.SummaryThis conversation delves into the pressing challenges facing the U.S. maritime industry, particularly the shipbuilding sector, in light of China's overwhelming shipbuilding capacity. The discussion highlights the need for affordable solutions, legislative support, and workforce development to revitalize the U.S. maritime industrial base. The guests, Mike Roberts and Bryan Clark, present their report from the Hudson Institute, which outlines actionable policies to enhance U.S. and allied shipping and ship repair capabilities. They emphasize the importance of a consistent demand signal from the government to stabilize the industry and attract skilled workers. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by the US Navy in maintaining maritime readiness and resilience in the face of potential conflicts, particularly with China. It discusses the need for a robust US-flagged shipping fleet, the implications of supply chain vulnerabilities, and the importance of leveraging allied shipbuilding capacities. The speakers emphasize the necessity of innovative shipbuilding strategies, improved maintenance practices, and a shift in mindset to prepare for future military operations effectively.TakeawaysThe U.S. maritime industrial base faces significant challenges.China's shipbuilding capacity far exceeds that of the U.S.Affordable solutions are necessary for immediate impact.Legislative support is crucial for revitalizing shipbuilding.Workforce development is essential for the shipbuilding industry.The Ships for America Act aims to increase U.S. flag fleet.Educational benefits can attract skilled workers to shipyards.A consistent demand signal is vital for industry stability.Shipbuilding is a low-margin business requiring government support.Investment in workforce training is critical for future success. The US needs a sufficient number of ships to support major combat operations overseas.China's control over global shipping assets poses a significant risk to US supply chains.The US Navy's reliance on foreign-flagged ships may not be viable in wartime.Innovative shipbuilding practices, including AI, can enhance Navy capabilities.Improving ship repair readiness is crucial for fleet capacity by 2027.The Navy must adapt its technical standards to facilitate faster shipbuilding.Allied shipbuilding capacities can be leveraged to enhance US naval strength.A consistent demand signal is necessary for ship repair yards to thrive.The Navy's public shipyards require significant infrastructure upgrades.A cultural shift within the Navy is essential to address current challenges.Sound Bites"China has 230 times the amount of shipbuilding capacity.""The Navy is far from its readiness goals.""We need to build capacity not just for peace but for war.""We can build uncrewed vessels in many different places.""We have to change the mindset we've been living with."Chapters00:00: Introduction to Maritime Challenges03:11: The Shipbuilding Capacity Gap06:04: Affordable Solutions for Shipbuilding15:05: Legislative Support: Ships for America Act17:29: Workforce Development in Shipbuilding29:24: Long-term Stability in Shipbuilding Industry34:10: Navigating Maritime Challenges and Supply Chain Resilience41:07: Innovations in Shipbuilding and Maintenance Strategies50:31: Leveraging Allied Shipbuilding and Repair Capacities57:59: Preparing for Future Conflicts and Fleet Readiness

Happy New Year to everyone…and Midrats is back with you.Join us today for a broad-ranging discussion for our 15th Anniversary Show with a regular guest since the start, Claude Berube.The conversation will go who knows where, but we will begin by reflecting on how the defense media and information environment has evolved since 2010—not just from the perspective of the information consumer, but also in terms of where decision-makers turn for opinions and ideas. We’ll include some inside baseball as well, starting with how the relationship between the PAO world and the broader number and flavor of media has evolved.Here’s to the 16th Season!Claude Berube, PhD, is a retired Navy Commander and retired professor from the Naval Academy. He's worked on Capitol Hill and as a contractor for Naval Sea Systems Command and the Office of Naval Research. He also worked at the Office of Naval Intelligence. He is the author or co-author of eight books including his most recent. He is working on his ninth book, about the Navy and the lead up to World War 2. His new podcast about the United States Senate will begin later this month.ShowlinksPowerline Blog and Dan Rather’s MemogateMWI’s “Spear” podcastThe Failure of the InstitutionsClaude’s “Siren’s Song” and other booksWar on the RocksCIMSECBill Roggio & Long War JournalSal Mergcogliano’s What’s Going on With ShippingJohn Konrad’s gCaptainGeopolitics Decanted PodcastInformation Dissemination blog, by Raymond PritchettSummaryIn this episode of the MidRats podcast, hosts Sal and Mark celebrate the 15th anniversary of their show with guest Claude Berube. They discuss the evolution of information in national security, the impact of media on public perception, and the changing landscape of military communication. The conversation highlights the importance of accountability, transparency, and credible voices in media, as well as the collaborative nature of modern information sharing. They also look ahead to future projects and initiatives in the realm of military and national security communication.TakeawaysThe Midrats podcast has been a consistent platform for naval discussions for 15 years.The evolution of information access has transformed national security discourse.Public Affairs Officers have become more cautious in their engagement with the media.The military's communication strategies have shifted significantly over the years.Accountability and transparency are essential for maintaining public trust in the military.A culture of untruth can undermine the credibility of official statements.Independent media sources are increasingly important for accurate information.Collaboration among information producers enhances the quality of discourse.Future initiatives in military communication will focus on transparency and engagement.Sound Bites"It's amazing how fast time flies.""This is the C-SPAN for the Navy.""The future is disaggregated."Chapters00:00: Celebrating 15 Years of Midrats Podcast02:16: The Evolution of Naval Information06:28: Democratization of Media and Its Impacts14:54: The Changing Role of Public Affairs in the Navy27:11: Navigating a Culture of Untruth in Media32:48: Independence in Media: The Value of Non-Sponsorship35:31: The Role of Personalities in Information Dissemination37:59: The Importance of Open Dialogue and Accountability42:01: Self-Correction in New Media44:48: The Credibility of Online Sources47:40: The Future of Media and Influence55:25: Upcoming Projects and Future Endeavors

With one of the most militarily and energy strategic states in our union, Alaska, being in the Arctic, and the extensive interests we have on the other side of the planet in Antarctica, do you wonder why our nation’s icebreaking “fleet”—being what it is—amounts to an antique road show? Are you curious how our plan to replace them is making the LCS program look like a successful and well-run program? Can a nation of 335 million souls learn something from a nation of 5.5 million?Today’s Midrats is for you with our guest, Peter Rybski.Pete is a retired nuclear-trained surface warfare officer who has served on six different ships and a couple of overseas staffs. His last job on Active Duty was as the U.S. Naval Attache to Finland. It was in that position that he began a deep dive into icebreakers and icebreaking technology. Pete retired in 2021, but remained in Finland, where he and his family live 106 miles from the Russian border.Forgot the most important part- He writes about icebreakers, security policy, and general life in Finland over at his Substack, Sixty Degrees North.ShowlinksSixty Degrees North article on USCG Polar Security Cutter ProgramSea ice trackerUSCGC Healy (WAGB-20)gCaptain article on Chinese icebreakersPolar Security Cutter Program from WikipediaWind Class icebreakersIcebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE)Sam LaGrone article on the VT Halter icebreaker programLe Commandant Charcot, French icebreaking cruise shipFinland icebreaking Missile CorvettesAker ArcticDr Elizabeth Buchanan on XSummaryThis conversation delves into the critical role of icebreakers in U.S. Arctic strategy, highlighting the challenges faced by the U.S. Coast Guard in maintaining and expanding its icebreaker fleet. Guest Peter Rybski shares his experiences in Finland, where he developed a keen interest in icebreakers, and discusses the historical context of U.S. icebreaker capabilities compared to other nations. The dialogue also addresses procurement issues, legal challenges, and the necessity for armed icebreakers in the Arctic, culminating in a discussion about international cooperation through the Icebreaker Coalition.TakeawaysThe U.S. has not built an icebreaker in 50 years.80% of the world's icebreakers are designed in Finland.The Coast Guard has been slow to prioritize icebreaker needs.China is rapidly expanding its icebreaker fleet.The procurement process for U.S. icebreakers is dysfunctional.International cooperation is essential for icebreaker capabilities.The U.S. needs to consider purchasing foreign-built icebreakers.Armed icebreakers are necessary for Arctic security.The Icebreaker Coalition aims to enhance collaboration among allies.Political will is crucial for advancing U.S. icebreaker strategy.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Icebreakers and Arctic Strategy06:10: Transitioning to Finland: A Personal Journey13:03: The Importance of Icebreakers in Global Trade18:12: Challenges in U.S. Icebreaker Procurement24:34: The Complexity of Icebreaker Design and Construction30:00: Understanding the Delays in Icebreaker Development31:15: Legal and Political Constraints in Shipbuilding34:34: The Need for a Comprehensive Icebreaker Strategy37:17: Arming Icebreakers: A Strategic Discussion43:52: The Icebreaker Coalition: Collaboration and Challenges47:19: Finland's Defense Purchases and U.S. Relations51:42: China's Growing Influence in Antarctica53:53: Future Insights and Closing Thoughts

Trying to get your mind around who the actors are in Syria as this 'frozen conflict' from the last decade begins to thaw?If you are concerned about international jihadist organizations, the security of Israel, instability caused by mass migration, rights of religious minorities in the Middle East, or human suffering, the cascading events in Syria should be in your scan.Well, this Midrats is just for you. Returning to Midrats for the full hour to give an overview of the different players in the conflict, from the perspective of a US Marine who helped lead the fight in an earlier phase of this long conflict, will be Seth W.B. Folsom.Seth is a retired Marine Corps colonel who served more than twenty-eight years in uniform. Throughout the Global War on Terror, he deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he commanded in combat at the company, battalion, and task force levels. A graduate of the University of Virginia, Naval Postgraduate School, and the Marine Corps War College, he also is the author of “The Highway War: A Marine Company Commander in Iraq;” “In the Gray Area: A Marine Advisor Team at War;” “Where Youth and Laughter Go: With ‘the Cutting Edge’ in Afghanistan;” and the forthcoming “Nothing Here Worth Dying For: Task Force Lion in Iraq.”He lives with his family and their needy cat in Southern California.You can listen here or at the Spotify widget below:ShowlinksNothing Here Worth Dying For: Task Force Lion in Iraq, by Seth FolsomHardcore History Series, Dan CarlinSummaryIn this conversation, Sal, Mark, and Seth discuss the complexities of the Syrian conflict, drawing connections to historical events and the role of various actors involved. They explore the implications of the recent developments in Syria, including the potential for humanitarian crises and the influence of external forces. The discussion also touches on military strategies, the significance of ethnic and religious groups, and the challenges faced by the international community in addressing the situation.TakeawaysThe Syrian conflict is deeply intertwined with historical and regional complexities.Jihadist groups in Syria present a complicated landscape that defies simple categorization.Comparisons to past conflicts, such as the Afghan Civil War, highlight potential future challenges in Syria.Ethnic and religious divisions in Syria complicate the political landscape and future governance.External actors, including Turkey and Iran, play significant roles in shaping the conflict's outcome.Humanitarian concerns are paramount as the situation in Syria evolves.The international community's response to the crisis will be critical in determining future stability.Chapters00:00: Introduction to the Syrian Conflict03:00: Task Force Lion and Its Role in Iraq and Syria11:09: The Complexity of Syrian Factions13:48: Comparisons to Historical Conflicts19:49: The Future of Syria and Regional Implications30:43: Historical Context and Military Logistics36:20: The Evolving Threat of ISIS38:03: Geopolitical Dynamics in the Middle East44:27: Humanitarian Crisis and International Response52:34: Reflections on Military Experience and Future Implications

Before everyone dives into a week of family and fasting, time to catch up with Sal and Mark on Midrats.From the retention crisis to some stark comments from senior leaders about the Western Pacific, we’ll cover the waterfront and more.ShowlinksFighter pilot burnoutAdmiral Paparo at BrookingsDereliction of Duty: Johnson, McNamara, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Lies That Led to VietnamSummaryIn this episode, Sal and Mark discuss the complexities of national defense, focusing on the importance of personnel in the military, the challenges of recruitment and retention, and the impact of deployment lengths on service members' lives. They explore the zero-sum nature of military personnel management, the strategic decisions that need to be made regarding deployments, and the role of allies in global military dynamics. The conversation critiques current military strategies and reflects on the future of military engagements, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of military policy and priorities. In this conversation, Sal and Mark discuss the economic vulnerabilities of nations, particularly focusing on the UK's reliance on maritime access and the implications for military readiness. They explore the challenges of budgetary pressures on defense spending, the inefficiencies within government bureaucracy, and the need for a reevaluation of military strategy in light of current geopolitical realities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of joint operations and the necessity for a more efficient allocation of resources to ensure national security.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Thanksgiving Greetings03:02: The People Behind National Defense06:10: Challenges in Retention and Recruitment08:54: The Zero-Sum Game of Military Personnel11:49: The Impact of Deployment Length on Retention15:08: Strategic Decisions in Military Deployments17:51: The Role of Allies and Global Military Dynamics21:01: Critique of Current Military Strategies23:58: The Complexity of International Conflicts27:12: The Future of Military Engagements29:56: Conclusion and Reflections on Military Policy32:15: The Economic Vulnerability of Nations35:52: Military Readiness and Strategic Realities39:42: Budgetary Pressures and Social Welfare Challenges43:17: Government Efficiency and Bureaucratic Challenges49:10: Rethinking Military Strategy and Deterrence57:11: The Future of Military Operations and Joint Forces