Midrats

Midrats
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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 704: A Post-Election Midrats Melee

    4 DAYS AGO

    Episode 704: A Post-Election Midrats Melee

    Summary The conversation delves into various themes surrounding innovation, customization, and future planning. It highlights the importance of bespoke solutions in development and addresses the challenges faced in implementing these ideas. The speakers reflect on their insights and look forward to new developments in the field.Show LinksTrump Declares No Mercy on CartelsChris Cappy from Task & Purpose on the Cartel WarsRed Hill Fuel Storage ReportWho Put Quartermaster Bloomfield in Charge of Defending Guam?Elbridge Colby on Tucker Carlson’s ShowElbridge Colby on MidratsReturn to TinianBuilding Navy Bases in WWIIThe Art of Military Innovation: Lessons from the Israel Defense Forces, by Edward N. LuttwakChapters 00:00: Introduction and Veterans Day Reflection02:55: Post-Election Analysis and Military Implications 09:05: National Security and Fuel Storage Concerns 13:54: War on Cartels: A New Approach 18:35: Military Cooperation with Mexico 23:33: Political Polarization and Bureaucratic Challenges 27:08: International Relations and Energy Policies 29:14: Political Landscape and Defense Spending 32:52: Innovations in Military Technology 35:36: Strategic Military Planning and Leadership 38:17: Naval Strategy and Regional Security 40:58: Impact of Political Changes on Foreign Policy 44:25: Military Readiness and Resource Allocation 49:14: Bureaucratic Challenges in Defense5 4:43: Critique of Diversity Initiatives in the Military

    59 min
  2. Episode 703: Midrats Pre-Halloween Spooktacular!

    OCT 21

    Episode 703: Midrats Pre-Halloween Spooktacular!

    ShowlinksJoint Sword 2024 off Taiwan.TAFFY-3 off Samar.USAF NGAD Pause.Narrow Seas, Small Navies, and Fat Merchantmen: Naval Strategies for the 1990s.USS Carney’s 1 year anniversary.Debt service now greater than spending on defense.Summary In this episode of Midrats, Sal and Mark discuss the evolving geopolitical landscape, focusing on China's strategic maneuvers around Taiwan and the implications for US military preparedness. They explore the potential for conflict, the challenges facing the US Navy, and the need for a reevaluation of military strategy and acquisition processes. The conversation highlights the complexities of international relations and the shifting balance of power in the region. In this conversation, Mark and Sal delve into the complexities of naval strategy, fleet composition, and the lessons learned from historical engagements like Taffy 3. They discuss the limitations of wargaming, the need for modernization in naval warfare, and the challenges of military production in times of peace. The dialogue also touches on the shifting global power dynamics and the implications for military strategy, particularly in relation to Israel and the broader international community. TakeawaysThe ongoing conflict in the Red Sea highlights the complexities of modern warfare.China's maneuvers around Taiwan reflect a strategic approach to territorial claims.The use of non-military assets by China complicates international responses.The US military faces significant challenges in terms of preparedness and resources.China's strategy may involve a slow strangulation of Taiwan's economy.International recognition of Taiwan's sovereignty is dwindling.The US's military pivot to the Pacific has not been adequately supported by resources.Naval strategy must adapt to the realities of modern warfare in narrow seas.The acquisition process for military assets is slow and risk-averse.There is a pressing need for change in military development and strategy. The importance of having a diverse fleet for various combat scenarios.Historical engagements like Taffy 3 provide valuable lessons for modern naval strategy.Wargaming often fails to capture the unpredictability of real-world engagements.Smaller, well-led units can outperform larger forces under the right conditions.The U.S. Navy needs to modernize its approach to warfare and fleet composition.Production capabilities must align with wartime needs to ensure readiness.Understanding global power dynamics is crucial for effective military strategy.The international community's perception of military actions can impact alliances.Decisive action is necessary when dealing with irrational adversaries.Military strategy must evolve to address contemporary threats effectively.Sound Bites"Halloween's spooktacular, but all our shows are spooktacular.""We need to think about smaller, highly armed boats.""Wargames are limited by assumptions and math.""Taffy 3 turned around a massive...

    1h 1m
  3. Episode 702: Mid October Maritime Melee

    OCT 14

    Episode 702: Mid October Maritime Melee

    It’s mid-October, and time for another no-hold-barred Maritime Melee from Midrats!You can listen at this link, or via the Spotify widget below. Show LinksHappy 249th Birthday Navy!Kaman K-MAX helicoptersStarlinkLifestrawIodine tabletsCNOC bagKatadyn filtersUkraine’s Baba Yaga dronesNavy relearns how to reload at seaHeavy lift shipsNet Assessment Podcast: What is the US Military Doing in EuropeTom Shugart’s report on 24 PRC patrol craft under constructionSummary In this conversation, Sal and Mark discuss the importance of disaster preparedness, particularly in the context of recent hurricanes. They explore various solutions, including maritime logistics, innovative technologies, and community self-sufficiency. They also touch on military logistics and the necessity of being prepared for future challenges. They discuss the critical need for the U.S. Navy to enhance its reloading capabilities, particularly for Vertical Launching System (VLS) cells, and the importance of maintenance and logistics in sustaining naval operations. They explore the implications of military readiness in the context of global power dynamics, particularly concerning China, and the challenges faced by the U.S. Navy in maintaining operational effectiveness amidst increasing demands. The discussion emphasizes the necessity for strategic foresight and collaboration with allies to ensure a robust defense posture. TakeawaysDisaster preparedness is essential for everyone, regardless of location.Maritime solutions can significantly enhance disaster response efforts.Innovative technologies, such as drones and unmanned systems, can aid in logistics during emergencies.Self-sufficiency and community preparedness are crucial in disaster situations.Effective communication is vital for managing disaster responses.Utilizing water transport systems can improve logistics during emergencies.Military logistics play a key role in national security and disaster response.Preparation for significant combat operations is necessary in the current geopolitical climate.Community volunteers can make a substantial impact during disasters.Having a disaster kit and knowing how to use it can save lives.The U.S. Navy needs to enhance its reloading capabilities for VLS cells.Maintenance and logistics are crucial for sustaining naval operations.The absence of destroyer tenders has impacted fleet...

    1 hr
  4. Episode 701: The Pentagon’s Gordian Knot, with Steve Deal

    SEP 30

    Episode 701: The Pentagon’s Gordian Knot, with Steve Deal

    What can be done to reform The Pentagon? Returning to Midrats to discuss the challenge of real reform to our military bureaucratic establishment will be Steve Deal. Steve Deal, Captain, U.S. Navy (Ret.) served as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Secretary of the Navy and Deputy Chief Learning Officer for the Department of the Navy.  During his twenty-seven years on active duty, he commanded Patrol Squadron Forty-Seven, in Ali Air Base, Iraq; Joint Provincial Reconstruction Team Khost, Afghanistan; and Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Ten in Whidbey Island, Washington.  Showlink Transforming to Innovate for National Security Summary In this conversation, Sal and Steve Deal discuss the pressing need for reform within the Pentagon, emphasizing the importance of political will, leadership, and human capital in driving change. They explore historical contexts, the challenges posed by bureaucracy, and the necessity of engaging the public in national security discussions. The dialogue highlights the critical role of education and talent management in the military, as well as the need for accountability and innovative thinking to overcome systemic inertia. Takeaways Political will is essential for true change in the Pentagon.The inertia of bureaucracy often prevents necessary reforms.Human capital is a critical component of national security.Leadership must be ruthless to drive real change.Engaging the public is vital for national security discussions.Education and talent management are key to military transformation.Tacit collusion can hinder innovation within the defense sector.A new Goldwater Nichols is needed for future reforms.We must challenge existing assumptions about military recruitment.The role of people in defense innovation cannot be overlooked. Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Overview of Pentagon Reform 03:06: Political Will and Historical Context for Change 06:43: The Role of People in Defense Innovation 10:51: Challenges of Human Capital in the Military 14:26: Need for Holistic Change in Defense Structure 18:08: The Inertia of Bureaucracy and Resistance to Change 22:51: Leadership and Accountability in National Security 26:33: Education and Talent Management in the Navy 30:40: The Importance of Engaging the Public 34:46: Consulting and Internal Change Agents 39:51: Tacit Collusion and the Need for Accountability 43:54: The Future of Defense Strategy and Leadership 48:44: Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

    1h 8m
  5. Episode 700: 20th & 21st Century Lessons with Chinese Characteristics: Toshi Yoshihara

    SEP 23

    Episode 700: 20th & 21st Century Lessons with Chinese Characteristics: Toshi Yoshihara

    For the last 23 years, the major powers outside the People’s Republic of China (PRC) have been engaged in a series of imperial police actions like in Afghanistan, small wars turning into inextricable problems, like Iraq, and not-insignificant medium sized wars as we see in Ukraine.The PRC chose to stay out of these conflicts, but has been learning from them.After studying 20th-century Pacific war lessons deeply and, though untested in combat since 1979, the PRC is preparing for something.Dr. Toshi Yoshihara returned to Midrats to discuss what the PRC has studied most and how its study is manifesting in policy and action.You can listen from this link, or the Spotify widget below.Remember, is you don’t already, subscribe to the podcast.Toshi is a Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments. He was previously the inaugural John A. van Beuren Chair of Asia-Pacific Studies and a Professor of Strategy at the U.S. Naval War College.  Dr. Yoshihara’s latest book is Mao’s Army Goes to Sea: The Island Campaigns and the Founding of China’s Navy (Georgetown University Press, 2022). A Japanese translation of Mao’s Army Goes to Sea was published in 2023. He co-authored, with James R. Holmes, the second edition of Red Star over the Pacific: China's Rise and the Challenge to U.S. Maritime Strategy (Naval Institute Press, 2018). The book has been listed on the Chief of Naval Operations Professional Reading Program, the Indo-Pacific Command Professional Development Reading List, and the Commandant of the Marine Corps Professional Reading Program.Dr. Yoshihara is the recipient of the 8th annual Kokkiken Japan Study Award by the Japan Institute for National Fundamentals in July 2021 for his CSBA study, "Dragon Against the Sun." In 2016 he was awarded the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award in recognition of his scholarship on maritime and strategic affairs at the Naval War College.   Dr. Yoshihara served as a visiting professor at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University; the School of Global Policy and Strategy, University of California, San Diego; and the Strategy Department of the U.S. Air War College. He currently teaches a graduate course on seapower in the Indo-Pacific at the School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University. Showlinks Chinese Lessons from the Great Pacific War: Implications for PRC Warfighting, CBSAChina is Learning About Western Decision Making from the Ukraine War, by Mick RyanElbridge Colby on XU.S. Navy's Top Officer Plans for Confrontation With China by 2027 Summary In this conversation, Toshi Yoshihara, Sal, and Mark delve into the lessons that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has learned from historical conflicts, particularly the Pacific War in World War II. They discuss the importance of logistics, intelligence, and joint operations in modern warfare, as well as how the PLA is...

    1h 3m
  6. Episode 699 - September Midrats Free For All

    SEP 9

    Episode 699 - September Midrats Free For All

    Summer is over, and it's time to focus on adult things once again. If it is of interest to from the Pacific to the Red Sea to the Potomac River—we have you covered. Showlinks: Royal Navy Ship Availability graphicCO USS John S. McCain relievedEgypt in Yemen Civil War 1960s/70sUS Army Typhon (not Typhoon, I know) launcherEgypt's Interest in PRC Aircraft Summary The conversation discusses the current situation in the Red Sea and the challenges posed by the Houthi rebels and Iran. It explores the implications of inaction and the role of the US and other nations in addressing the issue. The conversation also touches on the need for international cooperation and the changing dynamics of naval power. Other topics mentioned include the relief of the CO of the USS John S. McCain and the future of the Navy. The conversation in this part focuses on the importance of icebreakers and ice-hardened vessels in the Arctic region, the need for a grand strategy and force planning, the role of unmanned systems in warfare, the significance of mine warfare, and the changing dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean. Takeaways The Red Sea is currently a volatile region due to the activities of the Houthi rebels and Iran's support for them.The international community, particularly the US and its allies, need to address the situation in the Red Sea to ensure the free flow of trade and maintain stability.There are challenges and risks involved in taking action, including the potential for a larger conflict with Iran.The role of the US Navy and its allies in maintaining the security of the seas is crucial, but there are limitations to what they can do.The changing dynamics of naval power, including the rise of China in the Arctic, pose additional challenges for the US Navy.There is a need for international cooperation and a clear strategy to address the issues in the Red Sea and other critical maritime regions.The lack of icebreakers and ice-hardened vessels in the Arctic region is a concern for national security and environmental protection.Unmanned systems, including drones and unmanned submarines, are becoming increasingly important in modern warfare.Mine warfare is a critical aspect of naval operations and can be a deterrent to enemy forces.The Eastern Mediterranean is experiencing changing dynamics with the involvement of Egypt, Turkey, and China. Sound Bites "The Red Sea is worse than the Wild Wild West.""If we're going to pursue this vigorously, then we really have to go after Iran.""If not the US Navy, people will look towards the Royal Navy.""If we're going to do the guns and butter routine again, sometimes you ought to have guns and not just all butter." Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Technical Difficulties 03:20: The Volatile Situation in the Red Sea 08:05: Challenges of Addressing the Conflict 15:25: The Role of Naval Power in Maritime Security 21:03: The Need for Investment in Naval Assets 31:02: China's Growing Presence in...

    1h 5m
  7. Episode 698 - The Music Stopped at MSC, with Sal Mercogliano

    AUG 26

    Episode 698 - The Music Stopped at MSC, with Sal Mercogliano

    Where there appears to be a fair bit of shock and surprise in the general public, for those who have tracked the story closest, the feeling could be found along the spectrum from resignation to dismay. This did not happen overnight - and for those given responsibility for our nation’s sea power, this was only a matter of time. By acts of commission and omission, the nation that likes to call itself the world’s greatest - because we are no longer the largest - seapower, finds itself here; The Navy will reportedly sideline 17 vessels due to a manpower shortage that makes it difficult to properly crew and operate ships across the fleet. …The ships include two replenishment ships, one fleet oiler, a dozen Spearhead-class Expeditionary Fast Transports and two forward-deployed Navy expeditionary sea bases – the USS Lewis Puller, based in Bahrain and the USS Herschel "Woody" Williams, based in Souda Bay, Greece. The effort is known as the "great reset" and is awaiting approval from Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti. The change will reduce Navy demands for officers by 700 mariners. No amount of spin or PAO squid ink can hide this carbuncle - so we’re going to dive into it on the next Midrats Podcast. Returning to Midrats to get everyone up to speed is Dr. Sal Mercogliano, Chair Department of History, Criminal Justice and Political Science at Campbell University Former merchant mariner, contributor to USNI Proceedings, Sea History, Naval History, and gCaptain. Host of the YouTube channel What's Going on With Shipping. Summary The conversation discusses the recent decision by the Navy to sideline 17 vessels due to a manpower shortage. This decision has raised concerns about the impact on the fleet's operational capabilities. The guest, Dr. Sal Mercagliano, explains that this issue has been a long time coming and traces it back to decisions made in the 1980s. He highlights the challenges faced by Military Sealift Command (MSC) in recruiting and retaining mariners, as well as the negative impact of COVID-19 on crew availability. The conversation also touches on the lack of recognition and benefits for CivMars, the civilian mariners who serve on these ships. The conversation explores the challenges and potential solutions for the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the U.S. merchant marine. The complex chain of command for MSC and the stringent requirements for civilian merchant sailors are discussed. The need to make it easier for people to transition from active duty to MSC is highlighted. The conversation also addresses the issues of training, leave, and travel expenses for MSC mariners. The low recruitment rate from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the negative experiences of some mariners with MSC are mentioned.  The potential consequences of a shortage of mariners during a crisis are examined. The conversation emphasizes the importance of proper allocation of funds and the need for leadership and recognition of mariners' contributions. The lack of visibility and positive messaging about the merchant marine is discussed, along with the need for a national maritime strategy. The importance of logistics and the challenges of maintaining a strong logistics force are highlighted.  The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need to reevaluate the role of MSC and the potential benefits of reverting some ships from USNS to USS. TakeawaysThe Navy's decision to sideline 17 vessels due to a manpower shortage raises concerns about the fleet's operational capabilities.Recruiting and retaining mariners...

    1h 5m
  8. Episode 697: Ten Months of Lessons from the Red Sea, with Bryan McGrath

    AUG 19

    Episode 697: Ten Months of Lessons from the Red Sea, with Bryan McGrath

    If you find a message that is consistent over time, through times of ease and times of challenge, and at each challenge in the real world this message is validated, reinforced, and found to be correct — is that a message you need to pay attention to? Since the Houthi joined a second front with the Gazans against Israel by attacking international shipping in the Red Sea and its approaches, the US Navy has led the international response and has been engaged in continuous combat operations facing almost all anti-ship weapons that any navy would expect to face in 2024. The experience in the Red Sea is validating the consistent messages about fleet size and requirements voiced by our guest this week on Midrats — a consistent guest since 2010 — Bryan McGrath, Commander, USN (Ret.). Showlinks: The Navy is too Damn Small: Bryan McGrath on Substsack. The Law the Department of Defense Loves to Break: Madeline Zimmerman Buy Fords, not Ferraris: Jerry Hendrix Summary In this conversation, Sal, Mark, and Bryan McGrath discuss the ongoing attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea by the Houthis, who are clients of Iran. They also talk about the performance of the US Navy in protecting commercial shipping, the investments made in the Navy, and improvements and challenges in the US Navy. The conversation then shifts to the development of directed energy weapons and the challenges in integrating them into the fleet. They also discuss the importance of multi-mission platforms and the need for single-mission platforms in certain situations. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the presence and deterrence mission of submarines and the need for VLS reload capabilities on DDGs. McGrath highlighted the positive changes in the fleet's material condition and combat systems, as well as the increased investment in training and spare parts. However, he also expressed concerns about the extended deployments and the strain it puts on ships and crews. McGrath emphasized the need for a larger Navy, particularly in terms of aircraft carriers, to meet the demands of global operations. He also discussed the challenges in the shipbuilding industry and the importance of stability and additional shipyards. Sound Bites "It is time to bring systems to see that allow us to economically engage civilizations that can out-produce us""There's been three straight budgets now that have funded spare parts significantly higher than I have seen them since I was in command." Chapters 00:00: Introduction 02:04: Ongoing Attacks on International Shipping in the Red Sea 04:07: Performance of the Fleet in the Red Sea 07:10: The Potential of Directed Energy Weapons 09:40: Challenges in Integrating New Technology 12:14: The Need for More VLS Tubes and Single-Mission Platforms 16:13: The Role of Submarines in Naval Power 21:53: Deterrence in the South China Sea 26:43: Presence and Deterrence with the USS Georgia 30:20: Rearming DDGs and the Importance of VLS 33:36: Improvements in Shipyards and Material Conditions 41:18: The Need for More Aircraft Carriers 48:00: The Impact of Extended Deployments 54:35: The Importance of Spare Parts 58:58: Challenges of the Constellation Class 01:00:09: The Importance of Stability and Additional Shipyards Bryan is the founding Managing Director of The FerryBridge Group LLC (FBG), a niche...

    1h 3m
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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 - 2024
  • Episodes
    538
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Midrats
  • Show Website
    Midrats

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