School of War

Nicholas Morton, a Senior Lecturer in History at Nottingham Trent University and author of a detailed military history on the Crusader States, shares insights into the Crusades. He breaks down the complex dynamics between the Franks and Turks, discussing innovative military tactics and the significance of sieges. Morton analyzes the rise and eventual failure of the Crusader states, highlighting key figures like Saladin. He also draws connections between historical conflicts and modern Middle Eastern issues, showcasing the fluidity of warfare in both eras.

Katherine Kuzminski, Director of the Military, Veterans, and Society Program at CNAS and author of "Back to the Drafting Board," dives into the complexities of military recruitment amid looming global tensions. She discusses the significance of mobilization in a post-volunteer force era and challenges like declining youth interest in service. Kuzminski also explores lessons from Israel's conscription model and the evolving role of women in the military, highlighting societal perceptions of the draft and its implications for national security.

Mark Dubowitz, chief executive of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, provides crucial insights into the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. He discusses Iran’s missile strikes and the geopolitical impact on regional stability. The conversation delves into the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, emphasizing the need for stronger approaches to prevent nuclear escalation. Dubowitz also critiques past strategies and advocates for supporting the Iranian populace amidst regime change discussions, offering a detailed look at the challenges ahead.

Alex Miller, the Chief Technology Officer to the Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army, shares insights into the future of warfare. He discusses the U.S. Army's response to the evolving battlefield, emphasizing the role of drones and electromagnetic warfare. Miller highlights the shift from anti-terror operations to large-scale conflict and the urgent need for agile procurement strategies in military technology. He also touches on the integration of AI and automation in operations, while balancing human involvement to navigate ethical considerations.

Frank Ledwidge, a Senior Fellow in Air Power and International Security at the Royal Air Force College, dives into the future of warfare in space. He discusses the transformation of aerial tactics for this new domain, highlighting the competitive tension between nations, especially the U.S. and China. Ledwidge elaborates on the dangers of space debris, anti-satellite technology, and the ethical implications of advancements like Starlink. He emphasizes the necessity for international norms to mitigate risks as space becomes a critical battlefield.

Eric Edelman and Thomas Mahnken, defense strategy experts from the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments, discuss crucial insights on America’s military posture. They delve into the evolution of the National Defense Strategy and its implications amid global tensions with China and Russia. The conversation highlights the need for a 'multiple theater force construct' to address diverse threats and argues for increased defense spending to meet modern challenges. Their analysis reveals a pressing call for adaptability in U.S. military capabilities.

Christopher Lynch, a Political Science Professor at Missouri State University and contributor to Machiavelli on War, delves into the turbulent world of Renaissance warfare and Niccolò Machiavelli. He discusses the chaos sparked by the French invasion of 1494, which led to the rise of republicanism in Florence. Lynch critiques Machiavelli’s views on mercenaries versus a native military and examines his strategic insights during the campaign for Pisa. The conversation also touches on Machiavelli's exile and the complex morality in his works, revealing whether he was a reformer or a proponent of cunning politics.

Mark Montgomery, senior director at the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at FDD, shares insights on Taiwan's defense amidst growing tensions. He discusses the necessity of a strategic military stance to counter China's aggression, emphasizing innovative resource prioritization. He shares lessons from naval service and the importance of missile defense. Montgomery critiques shortsighted military decisions while exploring advanced sensor technologies and their implications for U.S. readiness, stressing the urgent need for effective deterrence.

Sabin Howard, a renowned sculptor and creator of 'A Soldier’s Journey' at the World War I Memorial in DC, shares his artistic journey and dedication to honoring veterans. He discusses the emotional weight of memorial art, blending classical techniques with modern themes. Howard delves into the complexities of war narratives, emphasizing the real human experiences behind sculptures. He also reflects on the impact of bicultural influences and the challenges faced in public art commissions, highlighting art's role in memorializing sacrifices.

Andrew Roberts, a renowned Churchill biographer, joins the conversation to challenge Darryl Cooper's controversial views on Winston Churchill. They explore the debates around Churchill's legacy during WWII, discussing whether he deserves to be seen as a villain. Roberts highlights the misconceptions about American involvement and Operation Barbarossa, emphasizing that Hitler, not Churchill, is the primary antagonist. The discussion also delves into the moral complexities of wartime decisions and the importance of understanding historical nuance.