
War on the Rocks
Discussions over drinks with security, defense, and foreign policy insiders and experts. The original War on the Rocks podcast series.
Latest episodes

8 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 41min
Introducing "The Iran Reckoning with Afshon Ostovar"
Afshon Ostovar, a prominent Iran scholar and author, delves into Iran's complex geopolitical landscape. He discusses the ongoing tensions between Iran, Israel, and the U.S., emphasizing the fragile ceasefire. Ostovar reflects on his Iranian heritage and how it informs his understanding of the region. He examines the shifting dynamics of Iran's influence since October 2022 and the implications of its military structure, particularly the IRGC. The conversation also tackles the looming threat of Iran's nuclear ambitions and its relationships with global powers like China and Russia.

26 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 31min
How to Think About the Future of War
Jim Rainey, the commander of Army Futures Command, discusses how emerging technologies like UAVs and AI are revolutionizing warfare and the Army Transformation Initiative. He delves into recent conflicts, emphasizing data-centric warfare and the balance between mass and precision in military operations. Rainey highlights the pivotal role of infantry in future battles, particularly in the Indo-Pacific theater, and the importance of integrating air operations. Finally, he outlines restructuring efforts aimed at enhancing military efficiency and addressing recruitment hurdles.

12 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 16min
Making Professional Military Education More Agile in the Air Force
Lieutenant General Andrea Tullos, Commander of Air University, shares her insights on revolutionizing professional military education in the Air Force. She discusses the urgent need to adapt education to face challenges like the competition with China. Tullos highlights how Air University integrates agile combat concepts and emphasizes on-demand learning for service members. The conversation touches on transforming education models, blending online resources with practical training, and enhancing international military collaborations to boost operational readiness.

12 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 28min
The Israeli-Iranian War: How We Got Here & What It Means
Nicole Grajewski, a nuclear policy expert at the Carnegie Endowment, and Rachel Brandenburg, an authority on Middle Eastern geopolitics from the Israel Policy Forum, dive deep into the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. They analyze Israel's recent military strikes and the resulting geopolitical upheaval. The conversation reveals the complexities behind Iran's nuclear ambitions and the implications of U.S. diplomatic failures. Additionally, they discuss Russia's growing defense alliance with Iran and its impact on regional stability.

17 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 23min
Moving Fast and Breaking Things
Justin Fanelli, Chief Technology Officer of the Department of the Navy, dives into the dynamic intersection of innovation and military needs. He discusses how the Navy is integrating commercial technology to enhance mission effectiveness while balancing operational demands. Fanelli highlights the push for better enterprise services that improve sailors' lives and the critical role of 'Mavericks' in fostering innovation. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for improved AI education and training to bolster human-machine collaboration in the defense sector.

27 snips
May 19, 2025 • 17min
How America's Special Operators are Preparing for a High-Tech Future
Lieutenant General Frank Donovan, vice commander of Special Operations Command, shares insights on the future of warfare. He discusses the shift from counter-terrorism to great power competition, emphasizing the integration of advanced technologies like AI and data into military strategies. Donovan highlights lessons learned from conflicts in Ukraine and other regions, showcasing the evolving role of special operators. The conversation also touches on recruitment challenges, the need for diverse talents, and how traditional values must adapt in a rapidly changing security landscape.

26 snips
May 7, 2025 • 41min
The Risks of the Latest India-Pakistan Crisis
Sameer Lalwani, a former expert at the U.S. Institute of Peace, sheds light on the escalating tensions between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan. He discusses the historical context of their conflicts and the precarious balance of nuclear strategies. The conversation delves into Pakistan's internal crises, which could influence military actions. Lalwani also examines the U.S. shifting role, moving from mediation to aligning with India, and the implications for regional stability amid potential military responses.

49 snips
May 6, 2025 • 36min
The Army's Upcoming Transformation, with Secretary Driscoll and Gen. George
In this discussion, Daniel Driscoll, Secretary of the Army, and Randy George, Chief of Staff of the Army, dive into the Army Transformation Initiative aimed at modernizing capabilities and cutting inefficiencies. They emphasize a soldier-centric approach and the integration of innovative civilian technologies. Key discussions include enhancing combat effectiveness with strategic program cuts and adapting to modern warfare with advanced drone capabilities. The importance of agility in training and operations is also highlighted, ensuring soldiers are equipped for complex future challenges.

20 snips
May 5, 2025 • 41min
Will Russia's War on Ukraine Keep Resisting Trump's Diplomacy?
Michael Kofman, a Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment specializing in Russian military affairs, and Dara Massicot, an expert in Russian military capabilities, delve into the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. They analyze how Trump's peace efforts clash with ongoing military realities. The discussion covers the evolving U.S.-Ukraine diplomatic landscape, NATO aspirations, and the impact of military strategies on civilians. Notably, they explore Ukraine's tactical shifts and potential future escalations, highlighting the intricate web of diplomacy and conflict.

20 snips
May 1, 2025 • 24min
Gen. Berger on Leadership in a Turbulent Era
In today's world, turbulence isn't temporary — it's the new normal. In this episode, Gen. (ret.) David Berger, former commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, shares why adaptability, resilience, and grit are not just desirable but essential traits for leaders in an uncertain and unpredictable age. Successful leaders must embrace disruption rather than waiting for stability to return, he tells Ryan. And after offering insights from his career as a Marine officer, including his experience planning and leading Force Design 2030, Gen. Berger shares what life has been like after hanging up the uniform.