The Grumpy Strategists

Ukrainian Ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko speaks with a grumpy strategist about his path from business to diplomacy, & the surreal experience of families - including his - like fighting in the Russian military during WW2 & now fighting against Russian invaders in their homeland. They cover connections between the war & our part of the world - North Korea and China's direct support to Russia & also Russia's efforts to grow its military relationship with Indonesia. The episode sets out the value of a new partnership on military and industrial cooperation between Australia and Ukraine. Ukraine needs support but is also now a source of military technical advantage.

The conversation highlights Australia's dual strategy of economic reliance on China and security partnership with the US, examining the complexities of this balancing act. They discuss the implications of recent US tariffs and the shifting dynamics of global power, particularly regarding Taiwan. Diplomatic disrespect among global leaders is critiqued, shedding light on historical power imbalances. The podcast urges a reevaluation of Australia's traditional approach and advocates for stronger partnerships with like-minded nations in the face of geopolitical tensions.

The hosts dive deep into Australia’s drone capabilities, revealing a stark contrast to the claims made by officials. They critique the disconnect between AUKUS announcements and the UK's actual production capacity for subs. The discussion highlights the challenges in military innovation, particularly around outdated technology and funding issues. Moreover, they emphasize the need for a proactive military strategy as they explore tensions in defense collaborations and the economic implications of military spending. A sobering look at military realities unfolds!

One Grumpy Strategist talks with Beaten Zone Ventures boss Steve Baxter. They set out Steve's journey from the Army to business success in the tech world, to now running an outfit all about investing in smart Australian companies making the best defence tech on the planet - for everyone but Australia....Changing that could be as simple - but big - as adopting the Ukrainian military's almost gamified 'Brave1' model - a market-based program that has soldiers using an online shop and tokens earned by destroying particular Russian systems. Delegation, empowerment and speed brings results.

A shocking audit reveals systemic failures in the Navy's operations and the questionable stewardship of nuclear subs. While Australia celebrates a new but minor patrol vessel after eight years of shipbuilding, the Army makes strides with HIMARS in military exercises. The hosts dissect Australia's complicated foreign policy amid rising Chinese influence, addressing both bandwagoning and free-riding concerns. They also explore the tangled web of military procurement challenges and the urgent need for accountability in defense initiatives.

In a riveting discussion, the hosts dissect Australia's submarine program and its cultural ramifications. They explore conflicting views on the AUKUS deal, pointing out concerns over U.S. naval fleet strength amid rising tensions with China. With the UK doubling down on submarine production, they question what's at stake for international defense relations. Notably, the hosts highlight the complexities of navigating U.S.-Australia dynamics, especially under Trump's influence, and the ongoing challenges facing the submarine strategy amidst potential risks.

The hosts kick off with a hilariously unconventional fix for a naval issue in Korea. They debunk six common myths surrounding defense spending, advocating for real military capabilities over mere financial numbers. The conversation highlights Australia’s inadequate response to drone warfare and its potential role in global conflicts. A comedic critique follows on the UK's rebranded Defense Strategic Review, pointing out the disarray in submarine ambitions and the challenges of aligning military strategies with local business support.

Douglas Hsu, Taiwan's representative in Australia, highlights Taiwan's exclusion from the World Health Assembly and its significant contributions to global health. He discusses how Taiwan's proactive health measures enhance its diplomatic credibility amidst challenges. Hsu also elaborates on the nuances of UN recognition, revealing that Taiwan's status remains unacknowledged in critical resolutions. The conversation touches on Taiwan's vital role in semiconductor manufacturing, its response to China's military intimidation, and ongoing efforts to secure support for trade partnerships like the CPTPP.

Marcus and Michael set out fast moving developments in military use of drones. they're happening not just in Ukraine, but in Japan, South Korea, Turkey, Singapore and the UK (just not in Australia). Then it's a dive into the Acting US Navy head's startling view that a US airstrike into Somalia was the biggliest in history. Then the Grumpies look at the investigation into the fatal Taipan helicopter crash, the Audit Office's scathing but calm assessment of Defence's failure to implement its own industry policy. The episode ends with some of the 'so what's' from revelations that Democrat seniors and White House staff worked around Joe Biden's obvious fragilities while assuring everyone they didn't exist.

The hosts humorously dissect the launch of the world's largest electric ship, the China Zorrilla, and its extravagant duty-free shopping deck. They dive into the complexities of American foreign policy, critiquing Trump's Middle East visit and the baffling dynamics of the Golden Dome defense initiative. Discussions highlight the challenges of military spending versus innovation in the private sector, while Australian companies shine amidst global disruptions. The risks of AI in the hands of autocrats and fluctuating American commitments add layers to this engaging dialogue.