War on the Rocks

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

General Michael Claesson, Chief of Defense of the Swedish Armed Forces, discusses Sweden's military transformation following NATO membership. He shares insights on modernizing, consolidating, and expanding Sweden's defense capabilities across land, sea, and air. Claesson highlights lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict, particularly in adapting strategic operations and enhancing technology. He also emphasizes fostering the next generation of military leaders and the importance of innovative defense practices to meet contemporary security challenges.

This discussion delves into the complexities of Australia’s foreign relations as it grapples with a changing dynamic with the U.S. The hosts analyze the rising challenges posed by China and the need for Australia to rethink its national security strategies. They also reflect on the future of the Net Assessment podcast, celebrating its move to the Stimson Center while discussing its historical impact and ongoing relevance. Additionally, the contrasting military strategies in the Middle East and Asia are examined, shedding light on the intricate nature of U.S. foreign policy.

Lisa Curtis, a security expert from CNAS, discusses critical geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific amid rising tensions from China. Zack Cooper, a military strategist, sheds light on the U.S. military's readiness and the nuances of great power competition. Dmitri Alperovitch, focused on U.S.-China relations, emphasizes the importance of Taiwan's security and the strategic significance of semiconductor production. They explore evolving alliances, military investments, and the roles of partners like India and Australia in the region's stability.

Constanze Stelzenmüller, a Brookings expert on U.S.-European relations, and Michael Kofman, a senior fellow at Carnegie focusing on Russian military matters, discuss the current U.S.-Ukrainian tensions following a controversial White House meeting. They explore the ramifications of halted U.S. military aid for Ukraine and its implications for European security. The duo also delves into Ukraine's ongoing struggle against Russian aggression, the changing dynamics in military assistance, and the historical context influencing U.S. public perception towards Ukraine.