Deterrence Down Under

Kimberly Cherington
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Non-Profit
  • Updated Bimonthly

Deterrence Down Under is a production of the NIDS Broadcasting Network and is focused on Australia and deterrence challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

  1. 1d ago

    SLCM-N, Missile Defense, and the Future of Indo-Pacific Deterrence

    In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, Carl Rhodes and Christine Leah examine one of the most debated developments in modern nuclear strategy: the United States' Sea-Launched Cruise Missile-Nuclear (SLCM-N) program. As geopolitical competition intensifies in the Indo-Pacific, policymakers and defense planners are reassessing how nuclear and conventional capabilities contribute to deterrence, assurance, and regional stability. Carl and Christine break down what SLCM-N is, why the United States is pursuing the capability, and how it fits into the broader framework of extended nuclear deterrence. They explore the historical role of sea-launched nuclear weapons, the legacy of the nuclear Tomahawk missile, and the strategic arguments both for and against deploying nuclear-armed cruise missiles aboard naval platforms. The discussion also examines Australia's evolving missile defense capabilities, including recent testing at Woomera, and considers what these developments mean for allies and partners throughout the region. Along the way, they address the perspectives of Japan and South Korea, command and control challenges, signaling and escalation risks, and Australia's longstanding nuclear policy commitments. From tactical nuclear weapons and maritime deterrence to alliance assurance and Indo-Pacific security, this episode provides a timely and accessible look at the complex strategic questions shaping the future of nuclear deterrence. Resources: Hiroshi Nakatani thesis on Japan https://centaur.reading.ac.uk/86467/2/23871021_Nakatani_thesis.pdf Desmond Ball http://www.jstor.org/stable/2538940?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents Linton Brooks http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/ins/summary/v013/13.3.brooks.html David Lange https://www.amazon.com.au/Nuclear-Free-New-Zealand-Way/dp/0140145192 www.thinkdeterrence.com

    SLCM-N, Missile Defense, and the Future of Indo-Pacific Deterrence

  2. Jul 27

    China's Nuclear Missile Test: Signaling or Routine?

    In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, Carl and Christine examine China's recent submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test and what it reveals about Beijing's evolving approach to nuclear deterrence in the Asia-Pacific. Was the launch a routine military activity, a strategic signal, or both? Carl and Christine explore the role of transparency, nuclear signaling, and strategic communication among major powers, while discussing the implications for Australia, the United States, and regional allies. They also unpack the diplomatic dynamics unfolding across the Pacific, the challenges posed by emerging missile technologies, and the growing importance of credible deterrence in an increasingly complex security environment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:28 China tests submarine-launched missile in the Pacific 02:22 Timing of the test and regional signaling 04:22 Interpretation of routine vs. provocative testing 08:12 Transparency and nuclear signaling 11:27 Missile testing and international norms 14:38 Cruise missiles and nuclear deterrence 16:15 Warning time and strategic preparedness 20:22 Australia’s response and regional security 22:48 Nuclear free zones and regional treaties 24:55 Diplomatic strategies in the Pacific 27:00 The evolving strategic landscape in Asia-Pacific 30:12 Future challenges and the role of transparency https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

    China's Nuclear Missile Test: Signaling or Routine?

  3. Jul 13

    Resilient Australia: Supply Chains, Sovereignty, and Security with Marc Ablong

    In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, defense expert Marc Ablong joins the conversation to examine the challenges facing Australia's defense establishment and the reforms needed to strengthen deterrence, resilience, and national preparedness. From acquisition delays and risk-averse processes to supply chain vulnerabilities and sovereign capability, Ablong offers a candid assessment of what must change to deliver the capabilities Australia needs. The discussion explores the government's efforts to reform defense delivery, the realities of achieving greater self-reliance, and why a whole-of-nation approach is essential to addressing modern security challenges. Ablong argues that organizational restructuring alone is not enough—success depends on faster decision-making, resilient supply chains, and stronger partnerships across government, industry, and society. Marc Ablong is Managing Partner of Geostrategic Risk Partners. Prior to founding Geostrategic Risk Partners, Marc had a 31-year career in the Australian Public Service, that culminated as Deputy Secretary of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Before that, Marc was a senior executive with 25 years within the Department of Defence. Marc led the development of the 2016 Defence White Paper, Integrated Investment Program and Defence Industry Policy Statement. Substack: mablong.substack.com

    Resilient Australia: Supply Chains, Sovereignty, and Security with Marc Ablong

  4. Jun 15

    Strategic Reality Check: Australia, AUKUS, and Modern Deterrence with Stephen Kuper

    In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, defense analyst Steven Kuper joins the conversation to examine Australia’s evolving strategic posture in an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific. The discussion centers on the implications of AUKUS—the trilateral security partnership reshaping defense cooperation, advanced capabilities, and undersea power in the region—and what it means for Australia’s long-term security and strategic independence. Cooper explores the tension between Australia’s historic reliance on allies and the growing need for greater self-reliance, highlighting how resilience—across defense, industry, and the economy—has become a core component of national security. From submarine capabilities to supply chain strength, the conversation underscores the interconnected nature of modern deterrence. The episode also unpacks strategic stability in a complex environment, where technological change, regional competition, and military modernization are reshaping how nations prepare for and prevent conflict. As Cooper notes, deterrence is not just about capability—it’s about adaptability, mobilization, and making critical choices today that shape tomorrow’s security landscape. With insights on mobilization challenges, defense industry capacity, and geopolitical risk, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at the realities facing Australia—and why building a resilient, integrated strategy is essential for navigating the future of deterrence. Listen now to explore how Australia is positioning itself for the next era of strategic competition. www.thinkdeterrence.com Follow us on YouTube and Linkedin

    Strategic Reality Check: Australia, AUKUS, and Modern Deterrence with Stephen Kuper

  5. Jun 1

    Deterrence Down Under: Challenges to Arms Control and Strategic Stability

    In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, defense analyst Lowell Schwartz joins Carl and Christine to examine the evolving landscape of nuclear diplomacy among the United States, Russia, and China. As great power competition intensifies without consistent dialogue, Schwartz explores the growing challenges surrounding arms control, transparency, and strategic stability in an increasingly complex multipolar environment. https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our National Security Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

    Deterrence Down Under: Challenges to Arms Control and Strategic Stability

  6. May 18

    Extended Deterrence and Nuclear Sharing in the Indo‑Pacific

    In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, hosts Christine and Carl take a deep dive into extended nuclear deterrence, nuclear sharing, and Australia’s evolving defense strategy in an increasingly contested Asia‑Pacific region. The discussion examines whether nuclear sharing—long debated in Europe—could play a role in Australia’s security posture, and what the strategic, political, and regional consequences might be. From alliance reliability and the credibility of U.S. extended deterrence to the risks and benefits of hosting nuclear weapons on Australian soil, this episode tackles some of the most complex questions facing policymakers today. They unpack the implications of Australia’s 2026 National Defence Strategy, including the push toward greater self‑reliance, the role of AUKUS, and how nuclear capabilities factor into regional stability and deterrence dynamics involving China. https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

    Extended Deterrence and Nuclear Sharing in the Indo‑Pacific

  7. May 4

    Decoding China’s Influence in the Indo‑Pacific: Strategies and Perspectives

    In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, defense analyst Derek Grossman joins the discussion with Carl to unpack how countries across the Indo‑Pacific view—and respond to—China’s growing influence. As Grossman notes, the Indo‑Pacific is far from monolithic, with regional actors pursuing distinct strategies shaped by history, geography, and national interest. The conversation examines Australia’s evolving defense posture, the implications of AUKUS, and the role of U.S. alliances in shaping regional security. It also explores China’s expanding diplomatic footprint, including the Belt and Road Initiative, alongside concerns over coercion, influence, and strategic signaling. From ASEAN’s careful balancing to Vietnam’s nuanced approach, this episode highlights why calibrated engagement and credible deterrence remain essential in managing great‑power competition. This discussion offers valuable insight into the complexity of Indo‑Pacific security dynamics—and why understanding regional perspectives is critical to shaping effective strategy. https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

    Decoding China’s Influence in the Indo‑Pacific: Strategies and Perspectives

  8. Apr 13

    Deterring China: Military Modernization, A2AD, and the Indo‑Pacific Balance

    In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, Christine and Carl examine the accelerating pace of China’s military modernization and what it means for Australia, regional allies, and stability in the Indo‑Pacific. The discussion explores Beijing’s strategic objectives—particularly its anti‑access/area denial (A2AD) approach—and how these capabilities shape deterrence dynamics surrounding Taiwan and U.S. and allied forces operating in the region. The conversation also highlights Australia’s evolving defense posture, including industrial cooperation with partners such as Germany, the growing importance of alliances, and the challenges posed by operating exquisite but finite military systems across vast distances. Drawing lessons from recent conflicts, the panel assesses how multi‑domain precision warfare, forward basing vulnerabilities, and alliance cohesion factor into deterring conflict in an increasingly contested strategic environment. Get Involved with more NIDS Services: https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Deterrence Education at NIDS https://thinkdeterrence.com/deterrence-education/ Listen to our Podcasts NIDS Podcast Network - National Institute for Deterrence Studies Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

    Deterring China: Military Modernization, A2AD, and the Indo‑Pacific Balance
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About

Deterrence Down Under is a production of the NIDS Broadcasting Network and is focused on Australia and deterrence challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Information

  • Creator
    Kimberly Cherington
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Kimberly Cherington 2025
  • Show Website
    Deterrence Down Under