Defense & Aerospace Report

In this discussion, Richard Fontaine, President and CEO of the Center for a New American Security, dives into the complexities of U.S. military strategy and foreign policy. He argues against the necessity of purchasing Greenland, emphasizing existing agreements for security access. Fontaine critiques NATO's challenges and warns against coercion that could alienate allies. He highlights the slow road to European self-reliance in defense and the strategic pitfalls of courting Russia against China. This conversation is a deep dive into contemporary geopolitical tensions and alliances.

Byron Callan, founder of Capital Alpha Partners, shares insights on defense industry dynamics, while Chris Servello, co-founder of ProVision Advisors and ex-Navy public affairs officer, discusses the evolving landscape of defense communications. They dive into the diplomatic implications of the U.S. Greenland acquisition talks, potential trade tensions with Europe, and assess NATO's future posturing. They also highlight the Navy's Golden Fleet initiative and the Pentagon's push for missile production as crucial topics shaping the defense industry.

Rocketron Epstein, an equity analyst at Bank of America Securities, breaks down the aerospace and defense market in 2026, highlighting key stock moves and economic trends. Sash Tusa, founder of Agency Partners, discusses European market dynamics, with Greenland emerging as a pivotal factor. Richard Abelafi critiques U.S. defense strategies regarding Greenland, urging a shift from mere rhetoric to real action. The panel debates the impact of U.S. tariffs and the need for ITAR-free systems, alongside the intricacies of European procurement and political divides.

Jim Townsend, a former Pentagon Europe chief, and Dov Zakheim, a former Pentagon comptroller, delve into the implications of U.S. appropriations on national security and potential shutdown risks. They analyze recent Senate votes affecting war powers, the geopolitical significance of Greenland, and NATO's evolving role. Townsend discusses the legacy of the Cold War in the Arctic and the shifting European security landscape. Zakheim assesses Iran's internal turmoil and U.S. diplomatic strategies, emphasizing the need for allied cooperation in a competitive global arena.

Becca Wasser, a leader in defense research at Bloomberg Economics, dives into pivotal issues in defense operations and air power. She unpacks recent military headlines, including UAV developments and F-35 production outlook. The conversation evolves to discuss global force posture shifts, the potential budget increase's impact on air capabilities, and strike options against Iran. Wasser also explores the implications of U.S. industrial strategies and the role of state intervention in defense, providing a comprehensive view of current trends.

Bryan Clark, Director at the Hudson Institute and former U.S. Navy officer, discusses defense strategies for Australia amidst budget constraints and evolving threats. He highlights a game-changing report on using uncrewed systems for deterrence and explores military scenarios through trilateral war games with the U.S. and Japan. Clark advocates for a shift in strategy to impose costs on aggressors and outlines necessary capabilities across domains. He also shares insights on the role of uncrewed systems and the importance of rapid adaptation in military acquisition.

Christopher P. Kavis is a naval analyst and co-host of the Cavas Ships Podcast, while Chris Servello is a retired U.S. Navy public affairs officer and co-founder of ProVision Advisors. They discuss the Navy's current needs amidst evolving threats, criticize the limits of a proposed battleship program, and explore the importance of technical maintenance skills for sailors. Kavis highlights concerns about resource allocation and the effectiveness of new frigates, while Servello emphasizes the need for a balanced fleet strategy integrating manned and unmanned vessels.

Byron Callan, an independent research analyst and founder of Capital Alpha Partners, dives deep into the geopolitical landscape shaped by the Trump administration's robust foreign policy. He tackles the feasibility of a $1.5 trillion defense budget and the potential impacts of changes in executive orders affecting corporate buybacks. The discussion also covers Lockheed Martin's ambitious investment in air defense systems and touches on critical issues surrounding Greenland's strategic importance and the risks faced by NATO. A captivating look ahead at the Surface Navy Association symposium rounds out the conversation.

Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein, a senior defense and aerospace analyst at Bank of America Securities, and Richard Aboulafia from AeroDynamic Advisory dive into robust market movements and the defense sector's performance as U.S. defense spending is set to increase by 50%. They discuss Lockheed Martin's major deal to enhance Patriot missile production and the geopolitical implications of U.S. rhetoric regarding Greenland and NATO. The guests also analyze supply chain challenges and the enduring importance of helicopters on the modern battlefield.

Michael Herson, a defense lobbyist, discusses congressional dynamics and recent appropriations, while Dr. Dov Zakheim critiques defense spending inefficiencies. Dr. Patrick Cronin analyzes China's reactions to U.S. actions regarding Venezuela and the implications for Taiwan. Jim Townsend raises concerns about NATO's trust amid Greenland discussions. The panel also explores geopolitical implications of U.S. policy changes, the evolving situation in Ukraine, and regional tensions in the Middle East, offering a comprehensive assessment of current defense and security challenges.