School of War

Evan Mawdsley, an Honorary Professorial Research Fellow at the University of Glasgow and expert on World War II, delves into the critical U.S. naval campaign in the Central Pacific during 1944. He discusses the strategic significance of carrier air power and innovative task force tactics that shaped military outcomes. Mawdsley highlights Japan's strategic miscalculations and the limitations of their naval responses, culminating in the pivotal Battle of the Philippine Sea. He also draws intriguing parallels to today's global military dynamics with rising powers like China.

Dmitry Filipoff, an associate research analyst at the Center for Naval Analyses, shares deep insights into the U.S. Navy's complex landscape. He discusses critical lessons learned from the Red Sea, highlighting the dangers of friendly fire and munitions depletion. Filipoff critiques current naval strategies and stresses the importance of efficient command structures. He explores the Navy's zero defect culture and its negative impact on personnel, advocating for a shift toward constructive failure to enhance operational readiness.

Nadège Rolland, a renowned expert on Chinese strategic issues and author of Mapping China's Strategic Space, offers insights into China’s geopolitical landscape. She discusses the formation of mental maps by Chinese strategists, historical perspectives from Mao, and the implications of perceived encirclement by the U.S. The conversation also touches on China's Arctic ambitions, the Belt and Road Initiative, and the delicate balance of asserting regional power while avoiding overextension. Rolland's analysis reveals the complexities shaping China's global aspirations.

Dan Blumenthal and Kyle Balzer, affiliated with the American Enterprise Institute and co-authors of 'The True Aims of China’s Nuclear Buildup,' dive into China's expanding nuclear capabilities. They analyze the shift in China's nuclear strategy and its implications for U.S. foreign policy. The conversation highlights China's ambitions to reshape global order and discusses the urgent need for a robust American response. The duo also examines the effects on U.S. alliances and the prospects for future trade and nuclear modernization under new leadership.

Rachel Kousser, a professor of Classics and Art History at CUNY and author of 'Alexander at the End of the World,' dives into the complex legacy of Alexander the Great. They discuss his pragmatic military strategies, including his dramatic conquest of Persia and the controversial burning of Persepolis. Kousser elaborates on the challenges he faced in Central Asia, battles against Darius, and pivotal moments that defined his leadership. The conversation also touches on the heavy toll of ambitious empire-building and the cultural clashes Alexander encountered.

Shyam Sankar, Chief Technology Officer at Palantir Technologies, shares his insights on defense technology and acquisition challenges. He critiques the Pentagon's outdated procurement processes, emphasizing the need for agility and collaboration. Highlighting the disconnect between corporate leadership and frontline realities, he discusses how software innovation is paramount for future warfare. Sankar also celebrates both established heroes and lesser-known innovators who defy convention in the defense sector, advocating for a shift towards software-driven military strategies.

Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and a Middle East security expert, dives into the collapse of Assad's regime. He discusses the rising influence of Syrian rebels and the implications for Israel and Iran. Mark highlights the challenges posed by extremist groups and analyzes the precarious balance of power in the region. He emphasizes the need for a strong U.S. strategy regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions while underscoring the fragile state of regional dynamics amid renewed conflicts.

Yishai Ben Zion, an Israeli officer with combat experience against Hezbollah, and Sarit Zehavi, a Lieutenant Colonel in the IDF reserves directing the Alma Center, share vital insights. They delve into Hezbollah's tactics, the complexities of ceasefire negotiations, and Israel's military strategies in response to persistent threats. Discussions also highlight the emotional toll on soldiers and local communities amidst ongoing conflict. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the precarious balance between military operations and civilian safety in Israel's northern front.

Michael Leggiere, Professor of Humanities at the University of Florida and editor of War Studies Journal 1, joins the show to discuss the sad state of military history in higher education.▪️Times     •      01:17 Introduction     •      02:48 Military history in academia     •      03:53 PME     •     05:22 What is “new” military history?      •      11:55 “History shouldn’t be a mystery”    •      17:55 The Journal    •      20:45 Suggested pieces      •      24:32 Napoleon      •      26:58 LeeFollow along on Instagram or YouTube @SchoolofWarPodcastFind a transcript of today’s episode on our School of War Substack

Mackenzie Eaglen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and an expert in defense strategy and budgets, delves into the stark realities of U.S. military funding. She highlights the alarming gap between China's reported and actual defense spending, stressing its implications for U.S. military readiness. Eaglen also discusses the critical need for strategic responses to China's advancements and the long-term impacts of budget constraints on national security and education. Her insights reveal the urgent necessity for the U.S. to modernize its defense approach.