
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 14, 2024 • 24min
Is Russia's Window for Gains this Summer Narrowing?
Military analyst Michael Kofman discusses Russia's offensive in Kharkiv, Ukrainian response, US policy changes, Russian Navy's relocation in the Black Sea, lack of political support, prolonged war strategy, and future military advancements in Ukraine.

11 snips
Jun 10, 2024 • 41min
CTOing in the Defense Department with Schuyler Moore and Justin Fanelli
CTOs Schuyler Moore and Justin Fanelli share insights on the challenges and importance of their roles in the Defense Department. They discuss collaborating with venture capital, benefits of working in defense tech, digital modernization, and user integration in technology development.

May 22, 2024 • 35min
A Conversation with Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall
Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall discusses the reorganization of the Department of the Air Force and modernization. They talk about challenges new entrants face, resistance to moving Air National Guard members to the Space Force, and the need for deployable units in modern conflicts.

May 10, 2024 • 30min
From Polar Presence to Port Security: A Conversation with the Coast Guard Commandant
Adm. Linda Fagan discusses the Coast Guard's global operations including Arctic endeavors and Indo-Pacific missions. Topics range from icebreaker advancements to cybersecurity challenges in America's ports. The podcast emphasizes the importance of diplomatic relations, international agreements, and cybersecurity measures for national security.

4 snips
May 6, 2024 • 18min
What Will Ukraine Do To Stay in the Fight this Year?
Military analyst Michael Kofman discusses the recent US security supplement for Ukraine, Russia's military advances towards key areas, the urgent need for air defense systems, challenges in Ukraine's defense against Russia, and potential future Russian offensives.

33 snips
May 1, 2024 • 42min
Ukraine and a Fractured World
Former CIA, national security, and intelligence experts discuss the war in Ukraine, Putin's resolve, White House response strategy, strategic decisions, Russia's evolving strategy, global polarization, and the impact on global order.

Apr 26, 2024 • 36min
Crossing the Threshold
Eric Brewer, Dana Stroul, and Gavin Clough discuss Iran's evolving threats, recent attacks, and nuclear capabilities. They explore deterrence, state-on-state conflict dynamics, and the implications on global security. The experts also touch on maintaining deterrence, diplomatic opportunities, and defense strategies in the region.

Apr 19, 2024 • 20min
Spacepower and the Private Sector
Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy John Plumb discusses the Defense Department's new strategy on space commercial integration, focusing on leveraging commercial innovation for national security, enhancing Pentagon's capabilities, the impact of space assets on warfare, communication in US-China relations and space operations, and the importance of space in deterrence strategies.

Apr 10, 2024 • 58min
Mike Kofman and Rob Lee on Drones in Ukraine
Mike Kofman, an expert on Russian military and security policy, discusses the evolution and impact of drones in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Topics include UAV technology advancements, the role of drones in military units, challenges of night operations, and considerations in drone warfare such as pilot skill and technology limitations.

Apr 8, 2024 • 30min
Ammunition, Energy and a Sense of History: The Czech Ambassador on Ukraine and More
Czech Ambassador Miloslav Stašek discusses ammunition initiative for Ukraine, Czech-US relations, and energy security. Also covers historical parallels, conflict in Gaza, and Czech Republic's presence in the US automotive industry.