Midrats

Midrats
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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.

  1. Episode 750: Springtime for the PRC with Dean Cheng

    9 HR AGO

    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
  2. 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 hr
  3. 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
  4. 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

    1h 1m
  5. 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 cum 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
  6. Episode 745: Mid-Winter Melee...National Defense Strategy et al

    26 JAN

    Episode 745: Mid-Winter Melee...National Defense Strategy et al

    No need to force yourself to head outside in this horrible weather—unless you are in the Free State of Florida where the high is expected to hit 80F or so. From the Friday National Defense Strategy dump to whatever comes over the transom, we’ve got you covered. Show Links2026 National Defense StrategyHeritage Foundation’s, TidalwaveBeans, Bullets, and Black Oil, Rear Adm. Worrall Reed, USNFourth Arm of Defense: Sealift and Maritime Logistics in the Vietnam War, Sal MercoglianoUSS Zumwalt Underway for First Time Since 2023 After Missile Refit, Sam LaGrone2009, George Soros interviewed by then WEF ‘Young Global Leader’ and future Canadian Deputy Prime Minister, Chrystia FreelandSummary In this episode of Midrats, the hosts discuss the recent release of the National Defense Strategy, its implications for U.S. military policy, and the focus on China one of the primary concerns. They also address European defense responsibilities, Canada’s political landscape, and the importance of logistics in military preparedness. The conversation highlights the need for candor within military culture and the future of naval warfare technologies. Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Overview 02:45: Airing Grievances: National Defense Strategy Release 07:09: Analysis of National Defense Strategy 12:41: Focus on China: Realistic Approaches 18:31: European Defense Responsibilities24:28: Canada’s Political Landscape and Defense Issues 30:38: Logistics and Military Preparedness 40:48: The Importance of Candor in Military Culture 53:30: Future of Naval Warfare and New Technologies

    1h 2m
  7. Episode 744: Greenland: Belle of the Ball, with Dr. Elizabeth Buchanan

    19 JAN

    Episode 744: Greenland: Belle of the Ball, with Dr. Elizabeth Buchanan

    Is four months too short a turnaround for a guest on Midrats? Not if the topic at hand keeps running to the top of your read board. From the unending diplomacy responding to the Trump Administration’s unending drive to get Greenland’s geography—and the resulting security—more firmly under American control, to the sitcom-worthy deployment of a couple of dozen “Coalition of the Freezing”—Greenland can’t-stop-won’t-stop from gathering eyeballs and attention. So, we’re bringing back Elizabeth Buchanan for another visit. We’ll use her recent article in The Spectator as starting off point, A buyer’s guide to Greenland. Dr. Elizabeth Buchanan is a senior fellow with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and an expert associate of the French Ministry of Armed Forces’ Institute for Strategic Research.Most recently she was Head of Research for the Royal Australian Navy (Department of Defence). Dr Buchanan is co-founder of the polar warfare program (Project 6633) at the Modern War Institute of the West Point Military Academy. Before joining Australia’s Defence Department, Dr. Buchanan was Lecturer of Strategic Studies for the Defence and Strategic Studies Course at the Australian War College.Elizabeth holds a Ph.D. in Russian Arctic Strategy and completed her post-doctoral studies as a Maritime Fellow at the NATO Defense College in Rome. She has published widely on geopolitics, most recently with Australian Foreign Affairs, International Affairs, War on the Rocks, Foreign Policy, Foreign Affairs, The Australian, and The American Conservative.Dr. Buchanan has been a Visiting Scholar with the Brookings Institution and was an analyst with Royal Dutch Shell. Elizabeth has three published books:: Russian Energy Strategy in Asia and Red Arctic: Russian Arctic Strategy under Putin. In addition to, So you want to own Greenland, she also has an upcoming book, Competitive Cooperation at the Ends of the Earth. Show links:So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump.Liz’s SEP 2024 visit to Midrats.The Unfortunate Greenland Kerfuffle.Denmark’s strategic concerns about China and Russia around Greenland, via Nick Solheim.Liz on X.Summary In this episode of Midrats, the hosts welcome back Dr. Elizabeth Buchanan, a senior fellow at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and Center for the National Interest, to discuss the ongoing geopolitical significance of Greenland. The conversation delves into the historical context of U.S.-Greenland relations, particularly in light of recent tensions and discussions surrounding Greenland’s potential independence. Dr. Buchanan emphasizes the importance of understanding Greenland’s strategic position in the Arctic, especially regarding U.S. national security interests and the implications of a changing global landscape, including China’s growing influence. The dialogue also touches on the complexities of Greenland’s relationship with Denmark and the potential for a direct U.S.-Greenland partnership. Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Overview of Greenland’s Importance 02:38: Historical Context of U.S.-Greenland Relations 05:52: The 2004 Defense Treaty and Its Implications 12:23: Greenland’s Independence Movement and Future Prospects 31:50: Best Case Scenarios for U.S.-Greenland Relations 32:17: Understanding the Scrappy Spirit of Greenland 39:12: The Geopolitical Landscape: Europe and the U.S. 54:31: Greenland’s Future: Independence or Status Quo?

    59 min
  8. Episode 743: Palantir's Mike Gallagher and Matt Babin on AI & Shipbuilding Integration

    11 JAN

    Episode 743: Palantir's Mike Gallagher and Matt Babin on AI & Shipbuilding Integration

    Summary In this conversation, the hosts and Palantir’s Head of Defense Mike Gallagher and Head of Shipbuilding and Naval Programs Matt Babin discuss the integration of AI and advanced manufacturing techniques in shipbuilding, particularly focusing on the role of Palantir’s ShipOS in transforming shipyard operations. They explore the generational gap in expertise within the industry, the importance of optimizing workforce efficiency, and the collaboration between NAVSEA and the Maritime Industrial Base Program. The discussion also touches on legislative support needed for modern shipbuilding and the challenges faced in submarine maintenance and production. ShowlinksU.S. Navy Partners with Palantir to Modernize Shipbuilding Supply Chain and Accelerate ShipbuildingThe Maritime Industrial Base ProgramHow big is the Columbia SSBN?TakeawaysAI and software can enhance traditional shipbuilding processes.ShipOS integrates various aspects of shipyard operations.Bridging the generational gap is crucial for shipbuilding.Workforce efficiency can be optimized through better planning.Legislative support is needed for consistent funding in shipbuilding.Software tools can help decision-makers understand costs better.The shipbuilding industry must attract younger talent.Chapters 00:00: The Future of Shipbuilding and AI Integration 03:55: Transforming Shipyard Operations with ShipOS 10:31: Bridging Generational Gaps in Shipbuilding Expertise 12:00: Optimizing Workforce Efficiency in Shipyards 18:24: Advanced Manufacturing Techniques in Shipbuilding 20:48: Leveraging Commercial Technology for Naval Advantage 25:51: Collaboration Between NAVSEA and the Maritime Industrial Base Program 33:42: Legislative Support for Modern Shipbuilding 44:32: Addressing Challenges in Submarine Maintenance and Production

    54 min
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Midrats
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    584
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Midrats
  • Show Website
    Midrats

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