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 719: NATO's Maritime North, with Dr. Sebastian Bruns

    5D AGO

    Episode 719: NATO's Maritime North, with Dr. Sebastian Bruns

    Returning for the full hour will be Dr. Sebastian Bruns. Sebastian is a seapower expert and maritime strategist. His current project as Senior Researcher at the Institute for Security Policy Kiel University (ISPK) is “NATO Maritime Strategies and Naval Operations since 1985”, a multi-year effort to explore the Alliance’s maritime and naval roles between the late Cold War and today. Sebastian is the founder of the Kiel International Seapower Symposium (KISS), the Baltic Sea Strategy Forum (BSSF), the “Dreizack” young voices in maritime research workshop, and the ISPK Seapower publication series (NOMOS). From 2021-2022, Dr. Bruns served as the inaugural John McCain-Fulbright Distinguished Visiting Professor at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, teaching Baltic Sea security and U.S. naval strategy to Midshipmen at the Political Science Department. He is a former Congressional staffer (then-Rep. Todd Young, IN-09), a fellow at the Royal Swedish Society of Naval Sciences, and a Non-Resident Fellow at the Royal Navy Strategic Studies Centre. ShowlinksHow much do Nato members spend on defense?Kiel Seapower.West-up map of the Baltic.Kaliningrad.German-Norwegian submarine program.Summary In this episode, Sal and Mark welcome Dr. Sebastian Bruhn to discuss the evolving security landscape in the Baltic Sea region, particularly in light of recent Russian activities. They explore NATO's response, the historical context of the Baltic, and the implications of the Kaliningrad exclave. The conversation also touches on the concept of the 'NATO lake', the challenges of gray zone tactics, and the future of naval cooperation and shipbuilding partnerships within NATO. TakeawaysThe Baltic Sea is experiencing increased military activity due to Russian threats.Kaliningrad's strategic position poses significant risks to NATO operations.The concept of the 'NATO lake' may lead to complacency in security measures.Gray zone tactics are complicating maritime security in the Baltic.NATO spending is increasing, particularly among Baltic nations.Germany's naval capabilities are being modernized but remain limited.Coast Guards are playing a crucial role in detaining shadow fleet vessels.Transatlantic shipbuilding partnerships are becoming more important.Historical context is vital for understanding current Baltic security dynamics.Chapters 00:00: Introduction to NATO's Maritime North 03:40: The Baltic Sea: A Strategic Overview 10:04: Historical Context and Current Threats 18:38: Kaliningrad: A Geopolitical Challenge 21:27: Russian Military Capabilities in the Baltic 29:00: Gray Zone Tactics and Hybrid Warfare 29:27: Historical Context of Naval Warfare 31:40: NATO Spending and Defense Strategies 39:17: The Role of Coast Guards in Maritime Security 44:40: Bureaucracy and Naval Operations 48:03: International Collaboration in Shipbuilding 53:15: Maritime Domain Awareness and NATO's Role

    1 hr
  2. Episode 718: March Free for All

    MAR 24

    Episode 718: March Free for All

    Summary Sal and Mark delve into the current state of the U.S. Navy, discussing the size and capabilities of the fleet, the challenges of operating as a two-ocean Navy, and the potential for utilizing alternative naval assets such as offshore supply vessels. They explore the ongoing debate between manned and unmanned aircraft. Discussed some of the lessons on how to turn around a military quickly using the transition from the 1970s malaise, to the Reagan Era victory in the Cold War. The discussion also touches on military leadership, morale, and the strategic importance of aircraft carriers in contemporary military operations. Show Links"Crash Fleet: An Emergency Shipbuilding Program”, by Lieutenant Commander Brian Adornato, USNR.German army struggles to get Gen Z recruits ‘ready for war’, by Laura Pitel.TakeawaysThe U.S. Navy's fleet size is often overestimated.The Navy operates as a two-ocean force, complicating logistics.Alternative naval assets could enhance defense capabilities.The future of naval warfare will involve a mix of manned and unmanned systems.Aircraft carriers remain a cornerstone of naval power.Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Overview of the Fleet Discussion 01:28: Analyzing the Current Size of the Navy 05:40: Challenges of a Two-Ocean Navy 07:48: Exploring Alternative Naval Platforms 11:58: Possible Role of Offshore Supply Vessels 14:47: Historical Context and Lessons Learned 18:20: Rethinking Naval Strategy and Resources 21:22: Utilizing Reserve Forces Effectively 25:02: Future of Aircraft Carriers and Naval Aviation 29:59: The Future of Manned vs. Unmanned Aircraft 34:38: Military Resource Allocation and Strategy 39:35: Generational Perspectives on Military Service in the post Vietnam recovery 44:39: Leadership and Military Morale

    57 min
  3. Episode 717: The Maritime State, with Ross Kennedy

    MAR 16

    Episode 717: The Maritime State, with Ross Kennedy

    The origin story of the United States of America begins, in no small part, with maritime trade issues. Most of the declared and many of the undeclared, wars our nation has fought can be traced to the safety of our maritime commerce and unfettered access to the open seas. Look at any map, and you’ll see we have oceans to the east and west of us, between our nation and its markets, allies, and competitors on the world stage.Today we’re going to cast a wide net on that world view with returning guest, Ross Kennedy. Ross is a logistics and trade expert who has worked at the intersection of global trade, supply chains, and national security for two decades in support of United States national interests and private-sector clients. Summary This conversation delves into the intricate relationship between maritime trade, national security, and the evolving policies under the new administration. Ross Kennedy, a logistics and trade expert, discusses the historical context of maritime commerce in the U.S., the challenges of reindustrialization, and the need for a coordinated approach among various stakeholders in the maritime sector. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of investing in domestic shipbuilding capabilities, addressing supply chain issues, and recognizing strategic choke points in global trade. Kennedy advocates for innovative funding mechanisms and a holistic strategy to revitalize the maritime industry and ensure national security. TakeawaysThe U.S. maritime industry is crucial for national security.90% of global trade is conducted via maritime routes.A coordinated approach among stakeholders is essential.Reindustrialization requires long-term planning and investment.Funding mechanisms must support small businesses in the maritime sector.Disused shipyards can be revitalized for modern needs.Strategic choke points are vital for U.S. interests.Investing in domestic capabilities is a priority.Healthy debate is necessary for effective policy-making.The Arctic route poses significant geopolitical challenges.Chapters 00:00: Introduction to Maritime Trade and National Security 02:46: The Impact of the New Administration on Maritime Policies 08:11: The Role of Stakeholders in Shipbuilding 13:58: Challenges in Maritime Infrastructure and Supply Chains 20:25: Innovative Approaches to Shipbuilding and Economic Zones 25:26: The Future of Maritime Commerce and Procurement Reform 27:16: Decoupling Funding from National Security 29:18: Investing in Domestic Capabilities 31:51: Reimagining Maritime Logistics 35:05: Reviving Disused Shipyards 38:30: Strategic Maritime Infrastructure 43:44: Choke Points and Global Trade 50:27: Closing Thoughts

    53 min
  4. Episode 716: Mid-March Melee

    MAR 10

    Episode 716: Mid-March Melee

    Having trouble keeping up with all the developments in the national security realm over the last two months? Well, let not your heart be troubled, Sal & Mark are here for you this week with the ever-popular Midrats Melee format! No guest this week for the podcast, just your two humble hosts, solving the world’s problems in 60-minutes. Show LinksRear Admiral William Daly, USN OPNAV N96 at Surface Navy Association’s annual symposium: quotes can be found at link 1 and link 2.TRANSCOM’s purchase of used cargo ships.Substack on medium USV.Trump’s Gunboats, The National Interest, December 2016, by Claude Berube, and Mark Tempest.Substack on The Ship’s Act, December 2024.Summary In this episode of MidRats, Sal and Mark discuss the current state of naval infrastructure and the bipartisan Ships Act aimed at revitalizing shipbuilding in the U.S. They explore leadership changes within the Navy, the importance of unmanned vessels, and the potential for optimism in naval operations. The conversation also touches on geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict and North Korea's military developments, emphasizing the need for a robust maritime strategy. TakeawaysThe Ships Act has bipartisan support and aims to enhance naval infrastructure.Leadership changes in the executive and legislative branchs could positively impact shipbuilding efforts.There is optimism regarding the revitalization of the U.S. maritime industry.Unmanned vessels are seen as a crucial component of future naval strategy.Admiral Daly advocates for affordable and practical designs.The maritime industry can provide significant economic benefits across the U.S.The U.S. must adapt to lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict.The importance of recapturing intellectual capital from former military personnel.Sound Bites"It's an exciting thing to see.""We need hulls in the water.""We need to keep the money flowing."Chapters 00:00: Introduction 01:44: The Ships Act: A Bipartisan Initiative 09:11: Challenges in Shipbuilding and Maintenance 12:45: Historical Context: Lessons from WWII 16:38: The Need for New Vessels and Innovation 20:28: Admiral Daly's Vision for Unmanned Vessels 23:56: Utilizing Naval Reserves for Unmanned Operations 28:03: Conclusion and Future...

    57 min
  5. Episode 715: Securing Ukraine's Future Security, with Emma Ashford

    MAR 3

    Episode 715: Securing Ukraine's Future Security, with Emma Ashford

    A firm and lasting peace treaty, a ceasefire, in or out of NATO, in or out of the EU, European or international peacekeeping forces, an unending slog, or Russian tanks in downtown Kyiv? What are the realistic…and unrealistic…options for Ukraine as they enter the 4th year of the Russo-Ukrainian War of 2022?Is the best path for Ukrainian security instead a new security architecture based on Ukrainian power itself? How do you create a framework that could produce a realistic peace, while giving Ukraine a deterrence from future conflict? Using her recent article in Foreign Affairs, Ukraine Must Guarantee Its Own Security, as a kicking off point for our conversation on these and related topics returning to Midrats will be Emma Ashford. Emma is a senior fellow with the Reimagining US Grand Strategy program at the Stimson Center, and the author of First Among Equals: U.S. Foreign Policy for a Multipolar World, forthcoming from Yale University Press. Showlink  Ukraine Must Guarantee Its Own SecuritySummary In this conversation, Sal, Mark, and Emma Ashford delve into the complexities of the Ukraine conflict, discussing historical agreements like the Budapest Memorandum, the implications of NATO membership, and the current geopolitical landscape. They explore the challenges of European defense strategies, the lessons from Finland's historical context, and the potential pathways to peace negotiations. The discussion emphasizes the need for Ukraine to build its own security capabilities while navigating the intricate dynamics of international relations. Takeaways The Budapest Memorandum's implications are still relevant today.NATO membership remains a contentious issue for Ukraine.European states have divergent threat perceptions affecting defense strategies.The concept of 'Bluff and Pray' highlights European defense challenges.Lessons from Finland's Winter War can inform Ukraine's strategy.Ukraine must focus on internal capabilities for security.The US presence in Europe influences European defense initiatives.Negotiating peace involves complex territorial and sovereignty questions.European defense production can align with Ukraine's needs.The need for a unified European defense strategy is critical.Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Context of the Ukraine Conflict 03:59: The Budapest Memorandum and Its Implications 06:41: NATO's Role and European Security Dynamics 11:55: European Military Capabilities and Collective Action Problems 18:25: Bluff and Pray: The Dilemma of European Deterrence 20:52: The Risks of European Military Engagement in Ukraine 28:10: NATO's Role in Ukraine's Security 32:45: Ukraine's Self-Defense and Historical Parallels 37:39: Models of Neutrality and Defense 40:20: European Defense Production and Cooperation 46:49: US Withdrawal Scenarios and European Responsibility 51:19: Negotiating Peace: Territory, Arms, and Finance

    58 min
  6. Episode 714: The New Administration and China, with Dean Cheng

    FEB 24

    Episode 714: The New Administration and China, with Dean Cheng

    In the first month of the new Trump Administration, much of the attention outside our borders has focused on Europe and the Middle East—the two regions that always seem to divert our focus from America’s greatest competitor, the People’s Republic of China (PRC). We often think of the challenge in terms of the most obvious arena—the Pacific—but it extends from the Arctic to Africa and, increasingly, to space. Returning to Midrats this Sunday to discuss the PRC’s challenge for the new administration is Dean Cheng.Dean Cheng, Senior Advisor, United States Institute of Peace; Non-resident Senior Fellow, Potomac Institute for Policy Studies; Non-resident Fellow, George Washington University Space Policy Institute. He recently retired after 13 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 LinksChina and the new Moon RaceHome Depot v. European UnionSummary In this conversation, Sal, Mark and Dean discuss the evolving global landscape with a focus on China's strategic ambitions in space, military capabilities, and economic strategies. They explore the implications of China's presence on the moon, its approach to international order, and the challenges posed by its cyber and nuclear capabilities. The discussion highlights the need for the U.S. to reassess its priorities in light of China's growing influence and the importance of strategic choices moving forward. TakeawaysChina is challenging the post-war international order established by the U.S.The U.S. needs to focus on China's ambitions in space.China's presence on the moon could redefine international norms.The Chinese view of engagement differs significantly from the U.S. perspective.China's cyber capabilities pose a significant threat to U.S. interests.The evolution of China's nuclear deterrence is a growing concern.China's demographic challenges may impact its long-term strategy.The U.S. must prioritize its strategic choices in response to China.China's economic espionage is a tool for technological advancement.The need for a coherent U.S. strategy to counter China's influence is critical.Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Context of the Trump Administration’s First Month 03:35: China's Global Challenge and Space Ambitions 08:44: The Implications of China's Space Strategy 17:33: China's Technological Advancements in Space 24:32: Chinese Military Strategy and Information Dominance 29:01: China's Strategic Maneuvers in the Pacific 31:56: Cultural Perspectives: Engagement vs. Cooperation 36:31: Cyber Warfare: China's Digital...

    55 min
  7. Episode 713: Seth Folsom's, Nothing Here Worth Dying For

    FEB 3

    Episode 713: Seth Folsom's, Nothing Here Worth Dying For

    Returning to Midrats this week to discuss his latest non-fiction novel is Seth W.B. Folsom, Colonel, USMC (Ret.). From the Amazon page: Nothing Here Worth Dying For tells the story of his command of Task Force Lion—a “purpose-built” combat advisor team—and his frenetic 2017 deployment to Iraq’s Al Anbar Province. Charged with the daunting task of advising, assisting, and enabling the Iraqi Security Forces in their fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, Folsom and his team of Marines and sailors struggled to support their Iraqi partners in the Jazeera Operations Command while simultaneously grappling with their own leadership for their relevance on the battlefield.…As with the author’s previous books, Nothing Here Worth Dying For focuses on individual Marine actions at the tactical and operational levels while also addressing regional events that contributed to the overall narrative of the U.S. war in Iraq. Folsom describes his unpopular decision to prioritize his team members and their mission to support the Iraqi army above the desires of his own military service branch. As the final operation against ISIS in western Al Anbar gained steam, he questioned the wisdom of the military leadership to which he had dedicated his entire adult life. ShowlinksNothing Here Worth Dying ForThe Highway War: A Marine Company Commander in IraqIn the Gray Area: A Marine Advisor Team at WarWhere Youth and Laughter Go: With ‘the Cutting Edge in AfghanistanSummary This conversation delves into the complexities of military operations in Iraq, focusing on the formation and challenges faced by Task Force Lion during the fight against ISIS. Colonel Seth Folsom shares insights on the cultural dynamics, logistical feats, and the intricate relationships between various military and coalition forces. The discussion highlights the sacrifices made by service members and the ongoing questions about the purpose and impact of their missions. TakeawaysThe rise of ISIS in 2014 prompted a swift military response.Task Force Lion was formed from diverse units, creating unique challenges.Cultural differences between U.S. and Iraqi forces impacted operations.Logistical coordination was crucial for mission success.The PMF played a significant role in the fight against ISIS.Command structures were complex and often convoluted.The importance of building a cohesive team was emphasized.Leadership involved navigating various military and political dynamics.Sacrifices made by service members were a central theme.Reflections on the purpose of military engagement remain relevant.Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Context of the Long War 02:56: The Rise of ISIS and Initial Responses 05:39: Building Task Force Lion 08:12: Challenges of Individual Augments 10:54: Mission Overview and Arrival in Iraq 13:49: The Complex Landscape of Iraqi Forces 16:12: The Role of PMF and Tribal Forces 19:09: Navigating Command Structures and Relationships 36:42:...

    1h 4m
  8. Episode 712: Condition of the Navy's Amphibious Fleet And Its Impacts on Marines: the View from GAO

    JAN 27

    Episode 712: Condition of the Navy's Amphibious Fleet And Its Impacts on Marines: the View from GAO

    Does the US Navy have the right number and mix of amphibious ships, and are those ships being properly maintained? The Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) recent report to Congress explored this topic in depth, and today’s Midrats Podcast will delve into it further. From the summary of the report: Amphibious warfare ships are critical for Marine Corps missions, but the Navy has struggled to ensure they are available for operations and training. In some cases, ships in the amphibious fleet have not been available for years at a time. The Navy and Marine Corps are working to agree on a ship availability goal but have yet to complete a metrics-based analysis to support such a goal. Until the Navy completes this analysis, it risks jeopardizing its ability to align amphibious ship schedules with the Marine Corps units that deploy on them. As of March 2024, half of the amphibious fleet is in poor condition and these ships are not on track to meet their expected service lives. Our guests for the full hour to discuss the report and its implications will be two joint directors for the project, Shelby S. Oakley, Director, Contracting and National Security Acquisitions, and Diana Maurer Director, Defense Capabilities and Management at GAO. ShowlinksGAO Report: AMPHIBIOUS WARFARE FLEET Navy Needs to Complete Key Efforts to Better Ensure Ships Are Available for MarinesGAO Report: Navy Readiness: Actions Needed to Improve Support for Sailor-Led MaintenanceSummary The conversation delves into the critical state of the U.S. Navy's amphibious fleet, focusing on the challenges of ship maintenance, the role of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in assessing fleet readiness, and the ongoing controversy between the Navy and Marine Corps regarding ship availability. The discussion highlights the importance of metrics, accountability, and transparency in addressing these issues, as well as the need for a cultural shift within the Navy to prioritize maintenance and resource allocation effectively. TakeawaysMetrics and definitions of ship readiness need to be standardized.Cultural and bureaucratic challenges hinder effective maintenance practices.Accountability is essential for improving the Navy's operational readiness.Budgeting for maintenance is often deprioritized in favor of new acquisitions.Sailors are overworked and under-resourced, impacting their performance.The Navy must address root causes of maintenance issues to improve fleet readiness.Future leadership changes present an opportunity for reform in the Navy.Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Context of the Discussion 02:03: Understanding the GAO's Role in National Security 09:35: Insights from the Fleet: Realities of Ship Maintenance 14:49: Defining Ship Availability and Readiness 18:15: The Need for Metrics and Accountability 22:22: Challenges in Navy Bureaucracy and Culture 30:04: Navigating Accountability in Navy Maintenance 33:02: The Consequences of Deferred Maintenance 36:53: Policy Challenges in Navy Maintenance 43:09: Budgeting for Maintenance vs. New Acquisitions 45:53: Cultural Attitudes Towards Manpower and Maintenance 49:15: Realistic Expectations in Maintenance Planning 54:34: Future Directions for Navy Reports and Accountability Full Guest Bios Ms. Oakley is a Director in the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) Contracting and National Security...

    59 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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    553
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Midrats
  • Show Website
    Midrats

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