Underground Strategy

Amos C. Fox joins Underground Strategy to challenge conventional thinking on modern warfare. From maneuver warfare’s shaky foundations to the realities of attrition, we dig into the strategic narratives shaping today’s conflicts. Are we fighting the wars we think we are, or just the ones doctrine tells us to prepare for?Amos C. Fox, PhD, is a Fellow with Arizona State University's Future Security Initiative and a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at the University of Houston. He hosts Revolution in Military Affairs, Soldier Pulse, and WarCast, serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Military Studies, and is a senior editor at Small Wars Journal. A retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel, Amos brings over two decades of experience to the conversation.Conflict Realism: Understanding the Causal Logic of Modern War and Warfare: https://amzn.to/3WxWJehRevolution in Military Affairs Podcast:https://shows.acast.com/revolution-in-military-affairsIrregular Warfare Initiative:https://irregularwarfare.org/Follow Amos Fox:X: https://x.com/AmosFox6LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amoscfox/Join the mission:https://undergroundstrategy.comDiscover Number 788:https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this second part of our conversation with Andrew Chatterton, we explore the extreme lengths Britain went to in preparing for a German invasion. From hidden resistance networks to the brutal realities of underground warfare, this episode unpacks the operations that never made the history books.We also discuss the use of women and teenagers in secret roles, the harsh choices these units had to make, and how their actions would have shaped the fight for Britain. Plus, what would have happened if German infiltrators had made it onto British soil? Andrew walks us through a fascinating counterfactual scenario to test how effective these secret groups really were.Andrew Chatterton’s BooksBritain’s Secret Defences: Civilian Saboteurs, Spies and Assassins during the Second World War - https://amzn.to/3DYyMXdFortress Britain 1940: Britain’s Unsung and Secret Defences on Land, Sea and in the Air - https://amzn.to/4hgI2V3Explore moreStayBehinds research group - www.staybehinds.comWatch the toilet bunker video - https://youtu.be/iVLsKehOhIM?si=GzGFzVfDKAJTdW2SConnect with Andrew ChattertonX - https://twitter.com/Chats1Instagram - https://instagram.com/historicalandrewBluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/historicalchats.bsky.socialThreads - https://threads.net/@historicalandrewJoin the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.comDiscover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Underground Strategy, we go full cloak and dagger with British auxiliary units, the country’s secret last line of resistance during WWII. Max and Tony are joined by historian Andrew Chatterton, an expert on Britain’s covert civilian forces, to explore the unsung heroes who were prepared to fight from the shadows if the Nazis invaded.We uncover the origins of these secret units, their training, recruitment, and the ingenious tactics they planned to use against an occupying force. From hidden bunkers and sabotage plans to civilian spies and coded messages in church keys, this episode sheds light on the secret war that never happened—but could have changed history.Andrew Chatterton’s BooksBritain’s Secret Defences: Civilian Saboteurs, Spies and Assassins during the Second World War - https://amzn.to/3DYyMXdFortress Britain 1940: Britain’s Unsung and Secret Defences on Land, Sea and in the Air - https://amzn.to/4hgI2V3Explore moreStayBehinds research group - www.staybehinds.comWatch the toilet bunker video - https://youtu.be/iVLsKehOhIM?si=GzGFzVfDKAJTdW2SConnect with Andrew ChattertonX - https://twitter.com/Chats1Instagram - https://instagram.com/historicalandrewBluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/historicalchats.bsky.socialThreads - https://threads.net/@historicalandrewJoin the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.comDiscover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Max and Tony are joined by Robert Davidson, a South African author and battlefield guide, to explore the history and significance of the Spioenkop campaign during the Anglo Boer War.Robert shares his lifelong passion for military history, recounting how decades of research culminated in his book on the tragic Spioenkop battle. The discussion highlights the strategic missteps, human stories, and the role of groundbreaking battlefield photography that seared the campaign into public consciousness.The trio also examines the broader context of the Anglo Boer War, including the political tensions, trench warfare, and the personal narratives of those who lived through it. This episode offers a thoughtful exploration of military geography and history, paired with candid reflections and vivid storytelling.For those curious about the intersection of history and humanity, this masterclass will leave you with much to reflect on.Links:Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.comDiscover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7Robert Davidson’s book - The Spioenkop Campaign: The Battles to Relieve Ladysmith, 17-27 January 1900: https://amzn.to/3E0i5dS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Max and Tony dive into the myths and realities of hand-to-hand combat. From Hollywood's dramatizations to the harsh realities of the battlefield, they explore how militaries approach close-quarters combat and its role in modern training and operations.The discussion touches on the evolution of techniques like Krav Maga, the importance of mental and physical toughness, and how these skills translate to other scenarios like close protection. Max reflects on his own training and real-life experiences, offering candid insights into what really works in the heat of the moment.Tony shares historical examples, from the brutal trench warfare of WWI to modern contexts like Ukraine, and they debate whether hand-to-hand combat remains relevant in today’s world of long-range weaponry and drones.Whether you’re a martial arts enthusiast, a student of military history, or just curious about the realities behind the movies, this episode offers a thought-provoking take on the art and utility of close combat.Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.comDiscover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re kicking off 2025 with the second part of our discussion with Seán Scullion, active-duty officer, historian, and author of Churchill’s Spaniards.This episode dives deeper into the incredible story of Spanish Republicans who joined the British Army during WWII, continuing their fight against fascism across Europe, North Africa, and beyond.Séan shares powerful accounts of these men’s bravery and resilience, as well as the challenges they faced as soldiers and survivors. We also touch on the cultural and political complexities surrounding their contributions, both during and after the war.Start the new year by uncovering more about this overlooked chapter of history.Thank you for joining us as we begin another exciting year of Underground Strategy.Churchill’s Spaniards is available now, published by Helion & Co. Get your copy on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZSDRaVFollow Séan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sean.scullion/Séan´s Reading list:-Churchill and Spain: The Survival of the Franco Regime, 1940-1945 - https://amzn.to/4iTD1mY-Octubre 1934 - https://amzn.to/41OFJnJDiscover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7Follow us for updates and more content:Underground Strategy - https://undergroundstrategy.comMax Lauker on Instagram - https://instagram.com/maxlaukerUnderground Strategy on Instagram - https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final Underground Strategy episode of the year, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia are joined by Séan Scullion—active-duty officer, historian, and author of Churchill’s Spaniards.Séan shares the remarkable story of Spanish Republicans who, after fighting in the Spanish Civil War, joined the British Army during WWII. These men, fighting for freedom and survival, served in the Pioneer Corps, SAS, and other units across Europe, North Africa, and beyond.We explore their resilience, bravery, and the challenges they faced as soldiers and survivors. Séan also talks about the eight-year journey that went into writing this book and his connections with the families of these forgotten heroes.This is part one of a two-part series that highlights an extraordinary but overlooked chapter of WWII history.Churchill’s Spaniards is available now, published by Helion & Co. Get your copy on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZSDRaVSéan´s Reading list:-Churchill and Spain: The Survival of the Franco Regime, 1940-1945 - https://amzn.to/4iTD1mY-Octubre 1934 - https://amzn.to/41OFJnJThank you for an incredible year! Stay safe, stay frosty, and we’ll see you in 2025!Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7Follow us for updates and more contentUnderground Strategy Website - https://undergroundstrategy.comMax Lauker on Instagram - https://instagram.com/maxlaukerUnderground Strategy on Instagram - https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of Underground Strategy, Max and Tony bring a festive yet poignant twist to the podcast as they explore the traditions, letters, and unique experiences of military personnel during Christmas. From historical moments like the 1914 Christmas Truce to personal reflections from their own deployments, this episode delves into the resilience and camaraderie that emerge in the most challenging circumstances.Max shares stories of cozy family Christmases alongside recollections of Swedish coffee and festive trimmings on deployments. Tony recounts a warm South African Christmas with deminers, while reflecting on the mix of celebration and loss often faced by those in active duty. They also touch on the famous 1941 Christmas address by Winston Churchill and letters from soldiers in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and even World War II.This episode pays tribute to service members who find ways to honor the season, no matter where they are stationed, while reminding us of the sacrifices made by those serving during the holidays.Wishing all listeners a Merry Christmas, whether you're celebrating at home or far away.Discover Max’s book co-authored by Tony, Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7Follow us for updates and more content: https://undergroundstrategy.comMax Lauker on Instagram: https://instagram.com/maxlaukerUnderground Strategy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, recorded just days before Christmas, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia bring a relaxed yet reflective tone to the Underground Strategy podcast. From holiday traditions to the deep connections between military service, ceremonial duties, and global conflict, this conversation covers a lot of ground.The episode begins with Max and Tony sharing Christmas traditions—from Swedish celebrations on the 24th to Scottish winter mornings with blazers and cookies for Santa. But the discussion soon transitions into a thoughtful exploration of ceremonial guard duties, their significance, and the cultural differences in how military traditions are honored.Drawing from personal experiences, Max recalls guarding Stockholm’s Royal Castle during a snowy Christmas and reflects on how ceremonial roles contribute to both public engagement and unit cohesion. The conversation expands to military traditions worldwide, from Swiss Guards to riot drills and even the grandiose parades of more autocratic states.Max and Tony also explore how societies view and respect their armed forces, particularly during times of war and peace. Max shares his nuanced perspective on the balance between honoring military service and ensuring the ultimate objective remains peace—a timely reminder as the holidays approach.Discover Max’s book, Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7Follow us for updates and more contentMax Lauker on Instagram: https://instagram.com/maxlaukerUnderground Strategy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Underground Strategy Podcast, Max and Tony sit down with Andrew Balaam, a former Selous Scout and veteran of the Rhodesian Bush War.From Andrew’s early life in Southern Rhodesia to his experiences in the legendary Selous Scouts, this episode goes straight into the realities of pseudo-operations, inter-unit rivalries, and life on the frontlines of a conflict that shaped Southern Africa’s history.Andy shares unique insights into the tactical and personal challenges of operating behind enemy lines, as well as his thoughts on leadership, resilience, and the nuances of warfare.Some highlights from the episode:-Life as a Selous Scout: What made this unit unique, and how pseudo-operations reshaped the battlefield.-Operation Detachment: The first vehicle-based cross-border raid into Mozambique and its impact on Rhodesian strategy.-Leadership and Solo Operations: The challenges of operating independently in hostile environments, including Andrew’s unforgettable 57-day mission.-Historical Reflections: Andrew's candid thoughts on the political and personal aftermath of the Rhodesian conflict and his transition to life post-military.Andrew also discusses his books, including Bush War Operator and his latest work Skuzapo, which brings to life the stories and perspectives of both black and white Selous Scouts.Check out Andrew’s books:Bush War Operator - https://amzn.to/4gLOToJFurther Memoirs of a Bush War Operator - https://amzn.to/3CYQcmoSkuzapo: The untold story - https://amzn.to/430ijfxCheck out Max´s biography Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7Visit undergroundstrategy.com for additional resources, reviews, and articles or follow us on Instagram.Max Lauker: https://instagram.com/maxlaukerUnderground Strategy: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.