War on the Rocks

Lt. Gen. Stephen D. Sklenka, a U.S. Marine Corps general and logistics expert, shares his insights on military service and strategic planning. He reflects on his journey to becoming a Marine and the impact of mentors on his career. The discussion dives into the complexities of U.S.-China relations and the modernization of Marine Corps logistics. Sklenka emphasizes efficient supply chains, the role of AI in military strategy, and the importance of collaboration with allies. He also highlights influential military literature that shapes leadership and combat philosophy.

Michael Kofman, a Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment, brings his expertise on Russian military affairs, joined by Justin Logan from the Cato Institute, specializing in defense policy, and Liana Fix, a Council on Foreign Relations Fellow focused on European security. They dive into the chaotic diplomacy surrounding Ukraine's future, discussing the role of minerals, the influence of Trump on U.S.-Ukraine relations, and prospects for a European peacekeeping force. Their lively debates uncover the complexities of security guarantees and the shifting dynamics of European defense strategies.

Tom Tugendhat, a seasoned member of the U.K. Parliament and former security minister, shares his insights on pressing global threats, particularly focusing on Russia and China. He discusses the importance of military modernization and the U.K.'s strategic role in the Pacific, informed by his recent trip to Taiwan. Tugendhat highlights the significance of supporting democratic nations and the necessity of credible security arrangements within NATO, advocating for stronger defense partnerships with allies like Japan and India.

Adm. Pierre Vandier, the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation at NATO and seasoned French navy leader, shares insights on NATO's need for innovative strategies. He discusses adapting military structures in the wake of modern threats like cyber warfare and the lessons from Ukraine's conflict. Vandier highlights the importance of preemptive innovation and enhancing interoperability among NATO members. He also touches on the partnership between the EU and NATO in harnessing technology, emphasizing the need for rapid adaptation in an evolving geopolitical landscape.

Mike Kofman, an expert on Russian military affairs at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, shares deep insights into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He discusses the current military dynamics, particularly the challenges both sides face in manpower and recruitment. The conversation highlights Ukraine's evolving strategies and the slowdown of Russian advances since December. Kofman emphasizes the impact of economic factors and the complexities of war negotiation, setting a thought-provoking perspective on the conflict's future.

Maj. Gen. Dominique Luzeaux, a French general and NATO's digital transformation champion, dives into groundbreaking topics like AI's crucial role in military strategies and lessons drawn from the Ukraine conflict. He discusses NATO's challenges in integrating diverse national forces and the importance of structured training. Luzeaux shares personal anecdotes about influential leaders he's encountered, emphasizing autonomy and leadership trust, while exploring how science fiction inspires technological innovation.

Mike Kofman, a research fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace specializing in Russian military affairs, joins the conversation to dissect strategies in the Ukraine conflict. They explore Ukraine's hesitation in mobilization, critique the Biden administration's strategy, and discuss the implications of security guarantees outside NATO. The conversation also delves into the need for a new security framework for Ukraine, highlighting innovative solutions amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and potential U.S. disengagement.

Michael Kofman, an expert on the Russian military, and Rob Lee, his fellow analyst, discuss the evolving dynamics of the Russo-Ukrainian War. They highlight recent territorial shifts and the strategic importance of technology, particularly drones, in modern warfare. With Ukraine's impressive drone production exceeding 1.3 million units, they delve into how these advancements are reshaping battlefield tactics. The conversation also addresses the implications of tactical innovations like FPV drones and the use of anti-personnel mines in critical engagements.

Mike Kofman, a military analyst and expert on the Russian military, shares insights from his recent research trip to Ukraine. He discusses the precarious state of the frontlines, highlighting Ukrainian manpower shortages and Russian advances. Kofman explores the potential deployment of North Korean troops and its strategic implications for the conflict. He evaluates the evolving military landscape, contrasting earlier optimism with pressing challenges, and emphasizes the urgent need for the U.S. to reassess its policy in response to these developments.

Join Capt. Phil Williams, a CH-53 pilot, Gunner Josh Grayek, and Maj. Steve Stephenson, a logistics officer and CEO, along with Gunnery Sgt. Jude Stewart, as they dive into modernizing Marine marksmanship. They discuss innovative training initiatives that enhance individual combat skills while balancing technology and tradition. The conversation highlights the SPEAR model for quantifying lethality and the vital role of marksmanship in evolving warfare. Their insights shed light on making Marines more lethal and capable than ever before.