Modern War Institute

Mara Karlin, a professor at Johns Hopkins and former assistant secretary of defense, delves into the evolving nature of warfare. She challenges the traditional continuum of conflict, explaining how events like the Hamas attacks and the war in Ukraine demonstrate a blend of warfare characteristics. The discussion touches on the necessity for modern deterrence strategies, the complexities of comprehensive conflict, and the cultural shifts needed in the military to align with contemporary security challenges.

When the Chinese company DeepSeek recently released an artificial intelligence model called R1, its surprisingly advanced capability and the efficiency with which DeepSeek claimed to have trained the model sparked a wave of discussion about how rapidly Chinese AI development was progressing. But how is the competition to achieve superior AI technologies between China and the United States shaping up? And, given that the governments of both countries envision important military applications of AI, what implications does this have for the broader US-China strategic competition? To explore these questions and more, John Amble is joined by Bill Hannas, lead analyst at Georgetown University’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET), and Sam Bresnick, a CSET research fellow.   The MWI Podcast is produced with the generous support of the West Point Class of 1974.

Will Reno, a political science professor at Northwestern University, and Franky Matisek, an active-duty Air Force lieutenant colonel, delve into the complexities of Security Force Assistance (SFA). They discuss the historical challenges faced in Iraq and Afghanistan, stressing the need for a nuanced understanding of local contexts. The duo also explores ethical dilemmas in military support and highlights successful SFA examples from Colombia and Sierra Leone. Their insights underscore the crucial balance between humanitarian concerns and effective military partnerships.

Natasha Hall, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, brings her extensive expertise on Syria to the discussion. She delves into the intricate power dynamics that led to the fall of Bashar al-Assad, examining the influence of Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah. Hall explores the implications of the regime's collapse, including the challenges facing various stakeholders like ISIS and the Kurds, and the ongoing dilemma around Syrian refugees. She reflects on the uncertain future and the importance of Syrian agency in shaping the path ahead.

Arseniy Fedosiuk, a Ukrainian soldier who bravely defended the Azovstal steel factory during the 2022 Russian invasion, shares his gripping experiences on the front lines. He recounts the intense three-month siege in Mariupol, detailing the staggering numerical and equipment disadvantages faced by his unit. Listeners hear about life in the factory's basement amidst relentless bombings, the psychological toll on defenders, and the critical role of technology like Starlink in communication during combat. His firsthand narrative offers an eye-opening perspective on resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.

Zach Griffiths, a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army, and Leighton Summerlin, a Sergeant First Class, lead the Harding Project to enhance professional writing in the military. They discuss how writing is essential for addressing future battlefield challenges and fostering bottom-up change. The conversation covers the need for revitalizing Army branch journals, the transition from print to digital formats, and creating a culture of communication among soldiers. Their insights emphasize the importance of quality writing for professional discourse and leadership development in the Army.

Colonel Jennifer Gurney, an Army surgeon and Chief of the DoD Joint Trauma System, and Lieutenant Colonel Max Ferguson, an Infantry battalion commander, delve into the evolution of battlefield medical care. They highlight the challenges of prolonged casualty care in large-scale combat operations, emphasizing the need for collaboration between medical and military units. Key topics include innovative solutions like the 'walking blood bank,' the importance of timely interventions, and the role of advanced medical capabilities in enhancing survival rates under high-intensity conflict conditions.

Emmy Probasco, a senior fellow at Georgetown University, and Igor Mikolic-Torreira, director of analysis at the same institution, discuss the futuristic implications of artificial intelligence in warfare. They delve into the Maven Smart System, an innovative AI tool used by the Army's XVIII Airborne Corps, and how it contrasts with traditional military processes. The conversation also covers the challenges of integrating technology in defense, the need for adaptable military strategies, and the importance of AI literacy among personnel for effective decision-making.

Join veterans Lee Van Arsdale, Kyle Lamb, and Larry Perino as they recount the chaotic Battle of Mogadishu from their unique perspectives. They delve into the camaraderie and adaptability required in combat, the complexities of urban warfare, and the emotional toll of loss on the battlefield. With insights on leadership, the impact of local rivalries, and the importance of teamwork, these former military leaders reflect on the lessons learned from a harrowing mission that shaped their careers and the future of military operations.

A significant intelligence operation against Hezbollah reveals the intricacies of operational security in militant organizations. Recent events suggest Israeli intelligence's resurgence amid complex tensions with Hamas and Hezbollah. The implications of information operations on narratives during conflict are critically examined, highlighting psychological effects on all parties involved. Additionally, the discussion navigates the evolving alliances and potential shifts in military strategies affecting both regional dynamics and U.S. foreign policy.