War on the Rocks

Gen. David Allvin, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, talks about the future of training, logistics, and refueling in contested airspace. He also discusses lessons from Ukraine, the importance of long-term war strategy, and the power of education and leadership.

The podcast discusses the current Russo-Ukrainian conflict, including the situation on the front lines, naval developments in the Black Sea, Russia's diplomacy, and Ukraine's offensive. It explores the changing military capabilities, Ukraine's impact on the Black Sea and shipping, Russia's naval warfare, and the need for unity of effort in approaching the war.

Explore the feasibility and legality of seizing $300 billion Russian state assets held in Western banks. Discuss the significance of these assets amidst the Ukraine conflict. Analyze the proposal as a countermeasure to Russia's aggression and the concerns surrounding it. Examine the application of international law and its impact on the financial system. Explore potential consequences and retaliation of seizing Russian assets.

Middle East analysts Nick Danforth, Steven Cook, Joyce Karam, and Faysal Itani discuss how the war in Gaza impacts Israel's relations with the Gulf and American interests in the Middle East. They delve into the future of the Abraham Accords, governing post-war Gaza, the impact of the October 7th attacks on the UAE and the Abraham Accords, public opinion in the Middle East, Hamas's victory, radicalization, Saudi-Israel normalization, and the changing American view of the region.

Top officials and industry experts discuss the rise of commercial space power in the Defense Department. Topics include integrating commercial spacepower, benefits of space enterprise participation, and the significance of space missions and collaboration with the government.

Discussion on tactical adaptations in Ukraine, the lack of US military observers, the meaning of stalemate, and the big picture for next year. Highlights the challenges faced by Ukrainian forces and the need for regeneration. Reflects on US mistakes in understanding the operating environment and emphasizes the need for policy changes. Discusses Ukraine's strategic goals for 2024.

Defense expert Satoru Mori and international relations specialist Yasuhiro Izumikawa discuss Japan's evolving threat perceptions and defense planning, including their views on China, Taiwan scenario, Gaza, and Ukraine conflicts.

The podcast discusses their work on the Afghanistan Work Commission, disappointment in slow progress and inadequate funding in munitions production, and the importance of US-China dialogue. They also reflect on five years of the show, a misstep made by the previous administration, and the potential nomination of Kurt Campbell as deputy secretary of state. Additionally, they touch on the Philippines' response to China and the importance of air logistics in the Indo-Pacific.

Topics discussed include air superiority, technological advancements, and Ukrainian army development for breaking the stalemate. The industrial advantages of Russia and defense challenges faced by Ukraine. Similarities and differences in offensive strategies. Balancing military strategy and political objectives for Ukraine. Hollow promises from NATO and Washington, need for better policy adjustment and resource allocation.

In this podcast, Raj Shah, Air Force veteran and venture capitalist, discusses the intersection of defense and capital. They cover topics such as implementing commercial innovation in the defense sector, the importance of artillery and technology insertion in lower technology areas, challenges faced by companies disrupting the defense industry, and the positive impact of successful national security companies on venture investors and entrepreneurs.