Midrats

Midrats

Navy Milbloggers Sal from "CDR Salamander" and EagleOne from "EagleSpeak" discuss leading issues and developments for the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and related national security issues.

  1. Episode 753: The Case for Pacific Optimism, with Blake Herzinger

    HACE 2 DÍAS

    Episode 753: The Case for Pacific Optimism, with Blake Herzinger

    Having trouble keeping up with the world around you? Head swirling with too much? You’re not alone. Good news…we’ll get you all caught up and set right. Returning to the Midrats Podcast is Blake Herzinger. Blake Herzinger is Microsoft’s Defense and National Security Policy Lead for Asia. Previously, he led policy strategy and advocacy at Citi across North and South Asia and Australia, advised senior leaders on geopolitical and regulatory trends at Indo-Pacific Advisors, and held roles at Twitter and Booz Allen Hamilton focused on defense policy, risk, and market strategy. He has been affiliated with think tanks including the American Enterprise Institute and the US Studies Centre in Sydney. From 2008 to 2017, Blake served as an active-duty officer in the U.S. Navy as an intelligence officer; he continues to serve in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He holds an M.A. in Strategic Studies from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (Nanyang Technological University, Singapore) and a B.A. in Political Science from Brigham Young University.  He speaks English and Bulgarian.  In this episode:The significance of Japan increasing its defense expenditure to 2% of GDP and regional implicationsJapan’s soft power growth through development aid and maritime security contributionsThe increasing security cooperation between Japan, Australia, South Korea, and regional partnersHow regional maritime choke points affect security and trade resilienceThe digital revolution in shipbuilding and defense modernization effortsThe strategic importance of AUKUS and integrated supply chains for alliance strengthInsights into Singapore’s strategic posture and its partnerships in Southeast AsiaChallenges in defense procurement, cyber security, and digital infrastructure resilienceThe shifting dynamics of global energy supply and regional economic interestsTimestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to the regional security context 02:05 - Blake Herzinger’s role and current focus in Asia 02:33 - Japan’s defense spending increase and regional security implications 03:56 - Japan’s relationships with neighbors and regional development efforts 04:50 - Japan’s soft power in Southeast Asia and maritime security contributions 05:43 - Japan’s defense export initiatives and security cooperation 07:43 - Personal experiences with Japan-U.S. naval exercises and alliance benefits 08:13 - Japan’s assertiveness regarding Taiwan and regional security alignments 08:46 - Building security networks among U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific 09:36 - The evolution of regional defense partnerships and trilateral arrangements 10:01 - Historical context of Pacific conflicts and current opportunities for cooperation 11:20 - The non-expansionist nature of current regional disputes and interests overlap 12:15 - The growing economic and security ties around Southeast Asia 13:26 - Japan’s defense uplift post-Shangri-La Dialogue and its regional impact 14:01 - Ukraine’s influence on Japan and regional resilience initiatives 15:04 - Cyber warfare, critical infrastructure, and future regional security challenges 16:17 - Maritime choke points’ strategic importance and regional defense planning 17:41 - U.S. and regional shipbuilding efforts, technological modernization 18:48 - Evolving international relationships beyond traditional hubs 20:01 - The growing defense collaborations across Asia and beyond 21:35 - The importance of digital infrastructure and cyber security in defense 22:53 - The challenge of modernizing shipbuilding through data and digital supply chains 24:07 - Regional energy security, oil dependencies, and diversifying supplies 26:21 - Australia’s energy policies and regional resilience strategies 29:33 - The potential of nuclear energy and green energy initiatives in Asia 31:18 - The strategic significance of AUKUS and regional perceptions 36:54 - Modernizing defense logistics, munition production, and industrial cooperation 38:21 - Overcoming bureaucratic hurdles in defense modernization and tech sharing 40:30 - The ongoing efforts to evolve U.S. defense capabilities and partnership standards 43:18 - Australian and Japanese shipbuilding cooperation and regional interoperability 46:49 - Singapore’s strategic posture, partnerships, and regional stability efforts 51:24 - Final thoughts: emerging issues and the importance of optimism in security 54:12 - Blake’s recent publications, ongoing initiatives, and staying connected Resources & Links:Managing the Unbreakable Alliance: Agreements, Core Instruments, and Related Documents, by Blake HerzingerJapan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)As the US Navy just demonstrated, war at sea is global, John Andrews at ASPIMobilize: How to Reboot the American Industrial Base and Stop World War III, Shyam Sankar and Madeline Hart

    56 min
  2. Episode 752: March NATSEC Free-for-All

    23 MAR

    Episode 752: March NATSEC Free-for-All

    After a series of great guests, the Midrats Podcast returns this week with the ever popular, “Free-for-All” format!It’s just Mark and me for the full hour as we discuss the latest developments from the Iranian conflict and elsewhere. Summary Sal and Mark discuss the meticulous planning behind military operations, the nuances of Iran’s strategic posture, and the broader implications for global security. Whether you’re a defense enthusiast or a security professional, this discussion sheds light on the complexity and professionalism inherent in modern military planning. In this episode:The myth of spontaneous military actions and the importance of detailed operational planningDecades of strategic intelligence and military preparation on IranThe layered process of deliberate planning, from high-level directives to tactical executionThe significance of coalition operations, particularly with Israel, and target division strategiesHow the U.S. and allies use phased operations to achieve specific objectives and measure successThe potential long-term impacts of current operations on Iran’s regime and regional stabilityThe role of misinformation and the importance of diversified information sources in understanding geopolitical eventsInsights on missile defense systems, threats in the Strait of Hormuz, and implications for Europe and AsiaReflections on Iranian capabilities, internal resistance, and future regional conflictsTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 00:42 - The importance of deliberate military planning 02:24 - Iran’s decades-long strategic preparation 03:46 - Hierarchical planning from national directives to tactical execution 05:05 - Goals of the recent operations and response to higher command 06:57 - The reality of complex war plans, including branch and serial strategies 08:15 - Collaboration with Israel and target sharing 09:29 - Long-term planning and crisis adaptation 10:55 - Asset management and tactical operational adjustments 12:30 - The process of assessing mission success and defining end states 15:39 - Comparative military experience of the U.S. and Israel 17:02 - Duration and exit strategies for military operations 18:17 - How success is measured and operational end points 19:38 - Risks of mission creep and regime stability post-operation 21:11 - Insights from military leadership on regime resilience 22:58 - Impacts of leadership losses and succession in Iran 24:44 - Potential for regime radicalization and future conflicts 27:40 - Clarification on key geographic targets in the Strait of Hormuz 30:01 - Ballistic missile threats to Europe and the U.S. 33:07 - Iranian missile development and regional motivations 36:15 - Defense systems in Europe and political considerations 43:03 - China’s position regarding tanker escort and regional interests 50:38 - Focus on geographic hotspots and missile threats near Iran 52:29 - Israeli agility and sensor capabilities in targeting 57:41 - Internal resistance within Iran and revolution prospects 59:34 - Strategic patience and operational objectives 60:10 - Teaser for next week’s guest: Blake Herzinger Show Links:Jim Mattis and Ryan Holiday | Full Episode 3.20.26 | Firing Line with Margaret Hoover | PBSThe Rise of the Punitive Expedition & the Repudiation of the Era of Errors, 02 March 2026Iran Strategy and Planning Resources

    1 h 2 min
  3. Episode 751: Dmitry Gorenberg on Russia in year five of the war

    16 MAR

    Episode 751: Dmitry Gorenberg on Russia in year five of the war

    Here we find ourselves approaching the fifth spring of the Russo-Ukrainian War of 2022.As the rest of the world’s geopolitical landscape changes dramatically, Russia’s “friend group” shrinks, and Ukraine’s friends grow weary and distracted, where is the war moving and where could we expect Russia to adjust for another year of conflict? Returning to Midrats again to discuss this and related issues is Dr. Dmitry Gorenburg, a Senior Research Scientist in the Strategy, Policy, Plans, and Programs division of CNA, where he has worked since 2000. Dr. Gorenburg is an associate at the Harvard University Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies and previously served as Executive Director of the American Association of the Advancement of Slavic Studies (AAASS). His research interests include security issues in the former Soviet Union, Russian military reform, Russian foreign policy, and ethnic politics and identity. Dr. Gorenburg is author of Nationalism for the Masses: Minority Ethnic Mobilization in the Russian Federation (Cambridge University Press, 2003), and has been published in journals such as World Politics and Post-Soviet Affairs. He currently serves as editor of Problems of Post-Communism and was also editor of Russian Politics and Law from 2009 to 2016. Dr. Gorenburg received a B.A. in international relations from Princeton University and a Ph.D. in political science from Harvard University. Summary In this episode, we explore the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, marking its fifth spring, and analyze Russia’s current military strategy, technological dependencies, economic adjustments, and geopolitical efforts. Our expert guest, Dr. Dmitry Gorenberg, a senior research scientist at CNA, provides insights into Russia’s military tactics, technological challenges, and international alliances, painting a comprehensive picture of a pivotal moment in the conflict. Key Topics:The significance of the fifth spring of the Russia-Ukraine war and its implicationsThe role and impact of Starlink and Russian anti-satellite capabilitiesRussian military tactics: steady grinding, troop mobilization, and drone warfareThe Russian psyche regarding prolonged conflict and public sentimentThe influence of repression and government control on information disseminationEconomic resilience: sanctions, oil prices, and support from BRICS nationsRussia’s strategic partnerships: Venezuela, Iran, China, and othersThe role of sabotaging NATO and Western countries to weaken collective defenseInformation warfare: Russian propaganda, disinformation, and influence operationsTechnological dependencies: reliance on US-based satellite systems and Chinese componentsRussian military leadership: promotions, strategic updates, and future outlooksThe geopolitics of energy, with focus on shadow fleets and the Straits of HormuzTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and overview of Russia’s fifth spring in the Ukraine conflict02:09 - The impact of cutting off Starlink and communication disruptions on the front lines04:20 - Russian troop mobilization strategies and tactics05:39 - External foreign fighters: North Koreans, North Africans, and recruitment trends08:33 - Russian public perception and cultural narrative about the war’s longevity09:29 - The influence of repression, propaganda, and societal attitudes in Russia12:46 - Government control of communications, internet censorship, and surveillance16:15 - Russia’s dependence on US satellite systems and Chinese technology17:36 - Russia’s technological gap: Satellites, GPS, and domestically developed systems19:10 - Economic impacts: sanctions, oil prices, and Russia’s financial resilience 21:25 - Russia’s efforts with BRICS and global network of allies to bypass sanctions23:24 - The role of Venezuela, Iran, and other countries in Russia’s geopolitical web27:06 - Russia’s sabotage operations against NATO and Western nations30:13 - Political influence campaigns, disinformation, and influence operations32:09 - Reflection on Cold War-era propaganda and current information strategies33:38 - The use of media, social platforms, and online influence in shaping narratives37:40 - Historical perspective on propaganda, public manipulation, and media control39:51 - Modern military technology, including missile attacks and Ukraine’s defense42:11 - The evolving missile landscape, targeting energy infrastructure and battlefield logistics44:46 - Russia’s advanced satellite capabilities: intercepting and maneuvering satellites46:47 - External support for Russia: North Korean, Iranian weapons, and China’s role48:00 - Chinese technology and components aiding Russia’s military industry50:17 - Russia’s long-term concerns about China’s rising dominance52:24 - Russia’s diplomatic and military support networks in Latin America and beyond54:00 - Shadow tanker ships, oil sanctions, and economic strategies related to energy55:47 - The geopolitical implications of oil sales, shadow fleets, and global markets57:06 - Russia’s support to Iran: targeting capabilities and strategic assistance58:21 - Ukraine’s recent military developments and regional connections60:59 - Ukraine’s defense industrial capacity and regional alliances62:24 - Russia’s outreach and support to Middle Eastern countries; strategic intentions64:39 - Future outlook: military promotions, strategic planning, and the war’s trajectoryResources & Links:CNA Russia StudiesStarlink by SpaceXRT (Russia Today)RAND Report on Russian SatellitesUS Sanctions and Oil Market DataRussia’s Shadow Fleet

    59 min
  4. Episode 750: Springtime for the PRC with Dean Cheng

    9 MAR

    Episode 750: Springtime for the PRC with Dean Cheng

    The first quarter of 2026 still has three weeks to go, but the assumptions and friend group of the People’s Republic of China has changed dramatically. Recent changes in the assumptions concerning Venezuela, Iran, Japan, and other nations will impact the national security concerns of the West’s greatest challenger on the world stage. Returning to the Midrats Podcast today from 5-6 PM Eastern to discuss will be Dean Cheng. Dean is a Non-resident Senior Fellow, Potomac Institute for Policy Studies and Non-resident Fellow, George Washington University Space Policy Institute.He recently retired after 14 years with the Heritage Foundation, where he was a senior research fellow on Chinese political and security affairs, and wrote on various aspects of Chinese foreign and defense policy.Prior to joining the Heritage Foundation, he was a senior analyst with the China Studies Division (previously, Project Asia) at CNA from 2001-2009.  Before joining CNA, he was a senior analyst with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) from 1996-2001. From 1993-1995, he was an analyst with the US Congress’ Office of Technology Assessment in the International Security and Space Division, where he studied the Chinese defense industrial complex.He is the author of the book Cyber Dragon: Inside China’s Information Warfare and Cyber Operations (NY: Praeger Publishing, 2016), as well as a number of papers and book chapters examining various aspects of Chinese security affairs. Show LinksDean Cheng’s article on Chinese military purgesAn Army at Dawn, by Rick AtkinsonChina’s HQ‑9B Defense System Under ScrutinySummary In this episode, Dean Cheng discusses China’s strategic posture, military reforms, cyber capabilities, and the implications of recent global events on China’s long-term plans. We explore China’s economic outlook, military modernization, regional influence, and the impact of purges within the PLA. Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Context of Global Tensions 03:01: China’s Strategic Position and Five-Year Plan 07:07: Defense Spending and Global Security Concerns 10:05: China’s Vulnerabilities and Energy Security 11:44: Military Purges and Leadership Control 18:22: Military Readiness and Combat Experience 23:27: Testing Chinese Military Equipment in Conflicts 28:45: Global Arms Market and Strategic Alliances 30:24: Military Culture and Learning from Underperformance 32:57: Training and Realistic Combat Experience 35:40: Cyber Warfare and Electronic Warfare Concerns 38:05: Regional Conflicts and China’s Diplomatic Stance 40:46: China’s Image and Political Warfare 44:48: Shifts in Global Alliances and Economic Influence 47:34: The Importance of Economic Engagement 50:25: China’s Diplomatic Approach to Neighbors 54:16: Cyber Threats and Infrastructure Vulnerabilities

    58 min
  5. Episode 749: Operation Epic Fury Free for All

    2 MAR

    Episode 749: Operation Epic Fury Free for All

    Hard to think of a better time to have a Midrats Podcast Free-for-All.2026 continues to produce more content than we know what to do with, but we’ll give it our best. Show LinksCENTCOM’s Epic Fury Day-1 SummaryLUCAS attack droneIntifada Podcast: Hamas in the U.S.UK gives a nod for base useSal Mercogliano on the Strait of HormuzIsraeli bomb shelter dating appSummary Join Sal and Mark as they analyze the recent military operations, geopolitical implications, and strategic considerations surrounding Operation Epic Fury and the broader Middle East tensions. This episode offers in-depth insights into military assets, regional dynamics, and the future of Iran and its neighbors. Chapters 00:00: Introduction 02:04: Main Focus: Operation Epic Fury and Iran 03:07: Details of US Military Assets Used in the Strike 06:28: Targeting Command and Control Centers in Iran 08:12: Iran’s Military Capabilities and Regional Impact 09:38: Iranian Public Sentiment and Future Opportunities 11:25: Support for Iranian People and Regime Dynamics 13:46: Iranian Revolutionary Guard and Sleeper Cells 16:52: Impact of Expatriates and International Support 18:14: Challenges of Leadership and Control in Iran 20:09: Strategic Goals and Limitations of the Operation 22:02: Analysis of Military and Political Leadership Decisions 25:24: Logistics, Risks, and Future Outlook 28:43: Potential for Further Actions and Regional Stability 31:17: European and Global Reactions to the Strike 34:38: International Responses and NATO’s Role 37:11: Iran’s Response and Proxy Activities 41:54: Intelligence, Misinformation, and Media Challenges 45:18: Implications for US and Allies’ Security 49:25: Operational Successes and Future Risks 54:31: Technological Innovations and Regional Impact 55:57: Humor and Human Element in Military Operations 01:00: Conclusion

    1 h
  6. Episode 748: The 21st Century Battleship, with Robert Farley

    23 FEB

    Episode 748: The 21st Century Battleship, with Robert Farley

    So, is this the time to make battleships great again?I would be hard-pressed to think of a better guest to help us explore that question than returning guest, Rob Farley. A starting point for our conversation will be his article from December, The Trump-Class Battleship Summed Up In 1 Word. Show LinksThe Battleship Book, by Robert Farley’sPatterson School of Diplomacy and International CommerceLawyers, Guns, and Money Dr. Robert Farley’s X ProfileDr. Robert Farley’s Blue Sky ProfileMy thoughts on SLCM-NSummary In this episode, Dr. Robert Farley discusses the concept of battleships, their historical significance, and the strategic considerations for modern naval warfare. The conversation covers technological challenges, political implications, and future force structure planning. Chapters 00:00: Introduction to the Battleship Debate 02:31: Historical Context and Modern Relevance of Battleships 07:44: Survivability and Modern Warfare Challenges 13:11: The Role of Nuclear Capabilities in Battleships 20:11: Political and Strategic Implications of Battleship Armament 23:15: Technological Innovations and Future of Naval Warfare 32:36: Design Philosophy and Size of Modern Warships 39:32: Historical Lessons and Future Capabilities 46:03: Political Implications of Naval Procurement 52:30 Shipbuilding Challenges and Future Directions Dr. Robert Farley has taught security and diplomacy courses at the Patterson School since 2005. He received his BS from the University of Oregon in 1997, and his Ph.D. from the University of Washington in 2004. In addition to the book of the moment, The Battleship Book (Wildside, 2016), Dr. Farley is the author of Grounded: The Case for Abolishing the United States Air Force (University Press of Kentucky, 2014), and Patents for Power: Intellectual Property Law and the Diffusion of Military Technology (University of Chicago, 2020). He has contributed extensively to a number of journals and magazines, including the National Interest, the Diplomat: APAC, World Politics Review, and the American Prospect. Dr. Farley is also a founder and senior editor of Lawyers, Guns and Money.

    56 min
  7. Episode 747: Mid-February Free for All

    16 FEB

    Episode 747: Mid-February Free for All

    Need a moment to recover from Valentine’s Day? Of course you do! ShowlinksTruxtun-Supply CollisionSecretary of State Marco Rubio at the Munich Security ConferenceMaritime Action PlanSummary In this episode of Midrats, Sal and Mark discuss various topics related to national security, starting off with the Truxton-Supply collision. They also delve into Secretary Rubio’s speech regarding NATO relations, the decline of the international order, and the challenges posed by China’s global influence. Additionally, they explore the Maritime Action Plan and its significance for the future of shipbuilding and economic policy in the U.S. Chapters 00:00: Introduction 02:10: The Truxtun-Supply Collision 11:55: Operational Tempo and Navy Readiness 17:24: Secretary Rubio’s Speech and NATO Relations 27:18: The Decline of the International Order 37:03: China’s Global Influence and Fishing Practices 45:51: Maritime Action Plan and Economic Policy 57:59: Strategic Capabilities and Future of Shipbuilding

    1 h 1 min
  8. Episode 746: Budgets, Ships, and the CBO, with Eric Labs - on Midrats

    1 FEB

    Episode 746: Budgets, Ships, and the CBO, with Eric Labs - on Midrats

    Show LinksThe Congress, the Golden Fleet, and the Shipbuilding Industrial Base in 2026Summary In this episode of Midrats, Sal and Mark engage with Eric Labs, a senior analyst at the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), to discuss the complexities of shipbuilding costs, the role of the CBO in providing independent estimates, and the challenges faced by the U.S. Navy in maintaining and expanding its fleet. Eric shares insights on the differences between CBO and Navy cost estimates, the impact of maintenance on overall ship costs, and the importance of a skilled labor force in shipbuilding. The conversation also touches on the historical context of shipbuilding budgets, congressional appropriations, and the future of naval forces in the face of evolving defense needs. Dr. Eric Labs is Senior Analyst for Naval Forces and Weapons at the Congressional Budget Office in Washington, D.C. He specializes in issues related to the procurement, budgeting, and sizing of the forces for the Department of the Navy. He received his doctorate in political science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and graduated from Tufts University, summa c*m laude, in 1988. He has worked for the Institute for Foreign Policy Analysis in Cambridge, Massachusetts and, from 1994 to 1995, as a Visiting Scholar at the Center for International Security Studies at the University of Maryland. Dr. Labs has been with the Congressional Budget Office since 1995.  Chapters 00:00: Introduction to the CBO and Eric Labs 03:01: Understanding the Role of the CBO 06:01: Cost Estimation Approaches in Shipbuilding 08:54: Historical Context of CBO Estimates vs Navy Estimates 12:04: Challenges in Shipbuilding Cost Estimates 15:09: The Impact of Maintenance on Ship Costs 18:00: Congressional Budgeting and Shipbuilding Appropriations 20:48: Labor Force Challenges in Shipbuilding 23:58: Future of the U.S. Navy Fleet and Shipbuilding 27:05: Conclusion and Future Considerations

    58 min
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Navy Milbloggers Sal from "CDR Salamander" and EagleOne from "EagleSpeak" discuss leading issues and developments for the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and related national security issues.

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  • Creador
    Midrats
  • Años de actividad
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodios
    587
  • Clasificación
    Explícito
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    © Copyright Midrats
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