War on the Rocks

Join Mike Kofman, a researcher on Russian military affairs, and Dara Massicot, a defense analyst at the Carnegie Endowment, as they explore the complexities of the Russo-Ukrainian war. They discuss the stalled diplomacy, the implications of not reaching a ceasefire, and Russia's potential moves in 2026. The conversation delves into Ukraine's expanding strike capabilities against Russian shipping and the challenges of defending against drone attacks. Both experts also analyze Russia's technological advancements and manpower strains in a conflict that shows no signs of resolution.

Gen. Sir Gwyn Jenkins, a Senior Royal Navy officer and the first Royal Marine to become First Sea Lord, dives into his unique journey and the future of the Royal Navy. He shares insights on submarine maintenance, emphasizing its critical importance. Jenkins also discusses the role of unmanned systems and the need for naval reforms, drawing lessons from Ukraine. He highlights the significance of NATO collaboration while balancing global commitments, plus the vital U.S.-U.K. naval relationship, showing a commitment to a resilient maritime strategy.

Gen. Xavier T. Brunson commands key military forces on the Korean Peninsula and shares insights from his extensive career. He discusses the delicate balance of his dual responsibilities, assessing North Korea’s evolving tactics and the importance of readiness exercises for deterrence. Brunson highlights South Korea’s growing military capabilities and its role in regional security. He also reflects on his command during political turmoil and the significance of adapting strategies to counter new threats in the Indo-Pacific.

Pål Jonson, Sweden's Minister of Defense, discusses Sweden's pivotal role in European security post-NATO accession. He elaborates on Sweden's impressive $7B support package for Ukraine and how rapid procurement is reshaping military readiness. Jonson emphasizes the urgency behind tripling defense spending, and the challenges of converting economic strength into combat power swiftly. He also highlights the importance of collaboration in defense production and the need for standardized munitions to enhance military capabilities across Europe.

Lawrence Freedman, a distinguished strategist known for his expertise on international security, joins the discussion to analyze Ukraine's critical dilemma of when to hold ground versus retreat. He explores the delicate balance between preserving forces and managing political pressures, especially regarding the intense fight for Pokrovsk. Freedman highlights the significant role of manpower, the implications of attrition, and contrasts the realities of the battlefield with historical parallels. He also delves into the psychological impacts of Russian propaganda and the complex theories of victory at play.

Frank Hoffman, an experienced strategist, joins Rebecca Friedman Lissner, a Council on Foreign Relations fellow, and Justin Logan, a Cato Institute commentator, to dive deep into contemporary U.S. strategy. They discuss the evolving American military stance in Venezuela and the implications of limited strikes in the Middle East. The guests dissect the Monroe Doctrine's relevance and explore the risks of current policies eroding the U.S. strategic capacity. With spicy takes on China, transatlantic relations, and national security documents, it's a thought-provoking conversation!

Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., a retired four-star general and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, shares insights on revitalizing America’s defense industrial enterprise. He discusses the urgency for action amid existing frameworks, the impact of munitions shortages highlighted during the ISIS campaign, and why the Ukraine war fell short in driving necessary reforms. Brown advocates for flexible funding, the importance of nontraditional firms in innovation, and reflects on his abrupt dismissal, underscoring his ongoing commitment to national defense.

Jim Himes, a Democratic Congressman from Connecticut and ranking member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, shares critical insights on national security and foreign policy. He discusses the legality of strikes on drug boats and the administration's failure to involve Congress. Himes emphasizes that these strikes are ineffective against U.S. fentanyl issues and critiques the performative nature of actions against Venezuela's regime. He also argues for a bipartisan approach to engage Argentina, and stresses the need for demand-side solutions to drug trafficking.

In this insightful discussion, Alex Miller, the Chief Technology Officer of the U.S. Army, delves into the Army's strategies for countering drones. He shares lessons learned from countering improvised explosive devices and the emerging threats observed on the southern border. Alex emphasizes the need for better industry collaboration and adaptation to rapidly evolving technologies. Additionally, he highlights the challenges of outdated systems and how the Army is shifting its focus to more effective solutions for detecting and defeating small drones.

Michael Kofman, a military expert at the Carnegie Endowment, and defense analyst Dara Massicot delve into the intricacies of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. They discuss the current battlefield dynamics, Ukraine's strategic choices, and the possible impact of Tomahawk missiles. The duo highlights Russia’s domestic challenges and explores how drone warfare is reshaping tactics. With winter approaching, they predict stabilization on the frontlines and caution against relying on unlikely contingencies in military strategy.