Modern War Institute

The term "cohesion" features prominently in discussions of military effectiveness, especially at the small-unit level. We all know intuitively what it means, but understanding how to develop and nurture it in practice is a challenge. That's even more true as technological advances continue to make constant connectivity with the outside world easier, even from a battlefield. How do soldiers' stresses from home impact cohesion? What about when soldiers no longer process shared traumatic experiences together? John Spencer spent twenty-five years as an infantry soldier and officer, including leading troops in combat. His book Connected Soldiers is based on both his personal experience and deep research. He joins this episode to discuss how unit cohesion affects military performance and how leaders can foster its development.

Join Army officer Maggie Smith, co-director of Project Cyber, and Dr. Erica Lonergan, a Columbia University expert on cyber threats, as they explore the unique challenges of cyber warfare. They discuss how cyberspace differs from traditional battlefields and the implications this has for military strategy and talent management. The conversation delves into the significant role of non-state actors in the Ukraine conflict, the evolution of military doctrines, and the need for specialized training to navigate this complex battlefield. Insights on recruiting and retaining cyber talent are also highlighted.

The Prussian military theorist Carl von Clausewitz is held in high regard among US military scholars. But it can be challenging at times to apply his ideas—with necessary nuance—to real-world security challenges. In this episode, Dr. Donald Stoker, a professor at the National Defense University’s Eisenhower School and the author of Clausewitz: His Life and Work, joins John Amble to discuss several of Clausewitz’s theories and use them as a lens through which to examine the ongoing war in Ukraine—and how it might eventually come to an end.   The MWI Podcast is produced with the generous support of the West Point Class of 1974.

Colonel Scott Wence, commander of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, and Major Anthony Patolino, overseeing base defense at Al-Assad Air Base, share harrowing insights from their deployment in the Middle East. They detail their brigade's resilience against over a hundred drone attacks, emphasizing tactical responses and the critical need for effective threat detection systems. The discussion also highlights the importance of technology integration and adaptive strategies in modern warfare, showcasing innovative approaches to counteract emerging drone threats.

In this special episode of the MWI Podcast, we're taking the opportunity to introduce listeners to a brand new podcast series called Ctrl Alt Army: Stories from Cyberspace. Hosted by Dr. Michael Sulmeyer, principal cyber advisor to the secretary of the Army, this podcast series features informal conversations with senior Army leaders about cyber issues. This is not a podcast by and for cyber specialists about cyber topics, but an opportunity for leaders from wide-ranging professional backgrounds to share how cyber issues have become increasingly impactful on a wide range of noncyber fields. Each of the series' eight episodes will feature a discussion with a different Army leader. To hear all episodes as they're released each week, find and subscribe to Ctrl Alt Army on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.

Sam Bendett, an adviser at CNA and senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security, dives into Russia's military ambitions regarding AI. He discusses the impact of sanctions on Russia's AI research since the Ukraine invasion. Bendett highlights a skilled worker exodus affecting military and civilian AI sectors, and emphasizes how this strains Russia's tech workforce. The conversation also touches on Russia's integration of advanced technology in military strategy and its ongoing reliance on partnerships, particularly with China, for future developments.

General Charles A. Flynn, the Commanding General of U.S. Army Pacific, emphasizes the crucial role of landpower in the Indo-Pacific amidst maritime strategies. He discusses the Army's unique capabilities that reinforce security for allies and partners, highlighting a 'land power network' essential for deterring aggression. Flynn also explores military education's role in fostering regional cooperation and the significance of joint operations in enhancing military readiness against emerging threats, showcasing the evolving strategies in the area.

Tom Carrico, Director of the Missile Defense Project at CSIS, shares insights on the recent Iranian missile and drone attacks against Israel. He delves into the impressive effectiveness of Israel's air defense, including the Iron Dome, and the collaborative efforts of coalition forces. Carrico explains the complexities of command and control in missile defense operations and discusses the evolution of military strategies in the face of modern threats. The conversation highlights critical lessons for future U.S. defense efforts against evolving air and missile challenges.

Seth Johnston, a U.S. Army officer and NATO expert, dives into the alliance's 75-year history and adaptation. He discusses the transformation of NATO from its Cold War origins to its crucial role after 9/11. Johnston highlights the challenges of burden sharing and the significance of the 2% GDP spending guideline. He reflects on NATO's adaptability to geopolitical changes and emphasizes the ongoing relevance of the alliance in today’s security landscape. Tune in for insights on European strategic autonomy and the enduring commitment to collective defense!

Sandor Fabian, a retired Hungarian Special Operations Forces officer with a PhD, dives into the vital role of resistance as a defense strategy for small states. He discusses the vulnerability of these nations amid larger aggressors, emphasizing the importance of adapting military approaches to enhance resistance capabilities. Key topics include the evolving defense strategies in urban settings, the tension between NATO's interoperability goals and small states' specific needs, and the implications for U.S. Special Forces in modern conflict.