Defense & Aerospace Report

Bryan Clark, a retired U.S. Navy officer now with the Hudson Institute, and Mark Montgomery, a senior director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, dive deep into the implications of Russia's recent 'super' weapons. They discuss the operational significance of nuclear-powered cruise missiles and advanced torpedoes, and how these could shift global deterrence. The duo also examines Ukraine's resilience in the face of Russian tactics targeting energy infrastructure, and the transformative potential of U.S. munitions like the Extended Range Attack Munition.

In this discussion, Byron Callan, an independent Washington research analyst at Capital Alpha Partners, dives into pressing issues facing the defense and aerospace sectors. He shares insights on the potential impacts of a government shutdown before Thanksgiving and discusses U.S.-China relations concerning technology and tariffs. Callan also explores regional instability tied to potential U.S. strikes on Venezuela, Boeing’s significant asset sale, and executive turnover at major contractors. Tune in for his analysis on upcoming reforms and industry incentives.

This week features Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein, a Senior aerospace and defense equity analyst, alongside Richard Aboulafia, an aerospace consultant, and Sash Tusa, an independent research analyst. They dive into the implications of the US-China trade truce and the challenges of developing nuclear submarines for South Korea. Discussions include Boeing's $4.9 billion charge on the 777X and Airbus' improving margins. The panel also addresses the SCAF program tensions between Airbus and Dassault, and celebrates the first flights of new unmanned and supersonic aircraft.

Dr. Patrick Cronin, a security expert at the Hudson Institute, joins forces with lobbyist Michael Herson, former Pentagon chief Jim Townsend, and fiscal strategist Dr. Dov Zakheim. They dive into the U.S. government shutdown's impact and Trump's recent Asia trip, analyzing his meetings with key leaders. The group discusses the implications of Trump resuming nuclear tests and the delivery of advanced weaponry to Ukraine as Russia tests new missiles. They also explore evolving U.S. alliances in Asia and the Gaza ceasefire's fragile status.

Major General Mark Mitchum, a two-star U.S. Air Force general and leader of the Integrated Capabilities Command, reflects on his career and the ongoing reforms within the Air Force. He discusses key achievements in mission integration and resource alignment. Mark highlights lessons learned from Ukraine regarding air superiority and innovation. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to both great power conflicts and smaller challenges, while stressing the need for rapid transformation and effective change management in large organizations.

Justin Sherman, founder of Global Cyber Strategies and a nonresident fellow at the Atlantic Council, dives into the complexities of technology and national security. He traces the origins of U.S. export controls back to the colonial era and discusses the economic tradeoffs of regulation. Sherman highlights challenges with controlling technology in today’s interconnected world, particularly with adversaries like China. He emphasizes the need for transparency in software and AI regulations and outlines the lessons learned from the TikTok debate on policy consistency.

Dr. Jennifer McArdle, U.S. Director of Helsing Inc., discusses the startup's rapid evolution since 2021 and its focus on AI-driven defense technology. She explains how self-learning AI enabled combat capabilities, with real tests on Gripen fighters. Insights from the Ukraine war shaped the HX-2 drone design, emphasizing resilience. McArdle also covers the innovative SG-1 Sea Glider and the challenges of scaling supply chains. With a vision for the future, she highlights the need for human oversight in autonomy and the importance of allied manufacturing cooperation.

Byron Callan, a senior analyst at Capital Alpha Partners with expertise in defense budget and geopolitical risks, joins the conversation. He dives into the implications of the government shutdown on federal morale and pay. Callan discusses the U.S. naval deployment near Venezuela and potential risks of escalation. He also analyzes recent earnings reports from defense contractors, highlighting issues with rare earths dependency due to U.S.-China trade dynamics. Additionally, he shares insights on the evolving defense budget and the implications of historical military lessons.

This week features Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein, a senior analyst at Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa, an independent analyst focused on European defense, and Richard Aboulafia, an expert in aerospace trends. They dive into the implications of the U.S.-China trade talks, analyzing the strategic impact of Beijing's chip export ban. They also discuss the satellite merger between Airbus, Leonardo, and Thales, and Ukraine's potential acquisition of Gripen fighters, exploring its significance for Ukraine's defense strategy.

Dr. Dov Zakheim, former Pentagon comptroller, discusses the implications of the ongoing government shutdown on defense programs. Michael Herson provides insights into congressional dynamics and appropriations. Dr. Patrick Cronin analyzes tensions in U.S.-China relations and trade strategies ahead of a crucial summit, while Jim Townsend offers commentary on Russia's actions concerning Ukraine and the significance of Ukraine's Gripen fighter purchase. This lively roundtable covers a range of pressing international defense issues.