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

    ١ فبراير

    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

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

    ٢٦ يناير

    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

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

    ١٩ يناير

    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?

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

    ١١ يناير

    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

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  5. Episode 742: The Venezuelan Raid

    ٥ يناير

    Episode 742: The Venezuelan Raid

    With a few days now behind us, most of the general facts are in on our raid into Caracas, Venezuela to capture Nicolás Maduro and, it appears, his wife as well. Now that Maduro is a guest of the Southern District of New York, it is time to not just look at some of the details of the buildup and execution of this raid, but the initial lessons we can take from it, and what it means in the larger strategic environment. Summary In this episode of Midrats, Mark and Sal discuss the recent military operation in Venezuela, reflecting on its execution and implications for national security. They explore the potential for Venezuela’s recovery, the role of governance, and the international reactions to the operation. The conversation also touches on the economic impact of Venezuelan oil, China’s influence in the region, and the effectiveness of international organizations like the UN. TakeawaysThe military operation in Venezuela was well-planned and executed.The ages of service members involved ranged from 20 to 49.Venezuela has the potential for economic recovery if governance improves.China’s influence in Latin America poses challenges for U.S. interests.The UN’s effectiveness in international law is questioned.Venezuelan oil could impact global energy prices.The operation sends a strong signal to adversaries.Governance and rule of law are crucial for Venezuela’s future.The U.S. military’s capabilities are unmatched globally.The situation in Venezuela is a test for U.S. foreign policy.Chapters 00:00: New Year, New Beginnings 02:11: Operation in Venezuela: A Military Success 09:36: Venezuela’s Future: Opportunities and Challenges 16:25: International Reactions and Implications 23:08: The Role of Governance in Venezuela’s Recovery 28:16: The Economic Impact of Venezuelan Oil 36:38: China’s Influence and Global Fishing Rights 43:17: The UN and International Law: A Critical View 48:38: Looking Ahead: The Path for Venezuela

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  6. Episode 741: The Lessons of Pearl Harbor at 84, with John Keuhn

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    Episode 741: The Lessons of Pearl Harbor at 84, with John Keuhn

    History isn’t just about the past; it’s a guide for today!  On this episode, we unravel the myths surrounding Pearl Harbor and what they teach us about current global tensions with returning guest, John Keuhn. Dr. John T. Kuehn is Professor of Military History at the Army Command and General Staff College. He served in the US Navy as a naval flight officer flying in EP-3s and ES-3s, retiring in 2004. He has authored or co-authored seven books and was awarded a Vandevort Prize from the Society for Military History in 2023 for his article “Zumwalt, Holloway, and the Soviet Navy Threat Leadership in a Time of Strategic, Social, and Cultural Change.” His latest book from is Strategy in Crisis (Naval Institute, 2023). Summary In this episode, Sal, Mark and guest John Kuehn discuss the historical significance of the Pearl Harbor attack, exploring its lessons for modern military strategy and the importance of public support in warfare. They analyze the complexities of the attack, the role of logistics in sustaining naval forces, and the geopolitical implications of sea lines of communication. The conversation also touches on the current state of the U.S. Navy and the strategic calculations of China in the context of potential conflict over Taiwan. Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Context of Pearl Harbor 04:22: Understanding the Surprise Attack 10:41: Lessons from Pearl Harbor for Modern Warfare 17:27: The Role of Public Support in War 25:12: The Importance of Selling Naval Power 31:08: Logistics and Sustaining Naval Forces 39:42: Geopolitical Implications of Sea Lines of Communication 46:00: China’s Strategic Calculations and Modern Warfare 56:40: Conclusion and Future Considerations

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  7. Episode 740: The Better Part of a Decade and a Half with the Navy & Midrats, with Bryan McGrath

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    Episode 740: The Better Part of a Decade and a Half with the Navy & Midrats, with Bryan McGrath

    One of our guests on Episode 3 of Midrats was Bryan McGrath, CDR, USN (Ret.). Over the years he’s returned often, and has even graced us with the pleasure of a few guest posts here.As he’s let people know for years, he was going to retire for good at 60. True to his word, he hung it up a few weeks ago. Earlier this year before he got too focused on his figs and vines, I asked Bryan to come on for a broad-ranging conversation. What a great hour. A retired Naval Officer, Bryan spent 21 years on active duty including a tour in command of USS BULKELEY (DDG 84), a guided-missile destroyer homeported in Norfolk, Virginia. In command, he received the “Admiral Elmo Zumwalt Award for Inspirational Leadership” from the Surface Navy Association and his ship earned the USS ARIZONA Memorial Trophy signifying its selection as the Fleet’s most combat-ready warship. His final duties ashore included serving as Team Lead and Primary Author of the US Navy’s 2007 Maritime Strategy “A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower”. Bryan was formerly the Deputy Director of the Hudson Institute Center for American Seapower. In this capacity, he helped develop the Surface Navy’s “Distributed Lethality” concept and the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments’ 2017 Navy Alternate Fleet Architecture Study. Bryan earned a BA in History from the University of Virginia in 1987, and an MA in Political Science (Congressional Studies) from The Catholic University of America. He is a graduate of the Naval War College. He retired again in November 2025 after 13 years in defense consulting. Show LinksThe End of the Road, Bryan McGrathIn Praise of the Military-Industrial Complex, Bryan McGrathSummary In this episode of Midrats, hosts Sal and Mark welcome back Bryan McGrath to discuss his reflections on retirement, the changes in the naval environment over the years, and the importance of relationships in naval policy. They delve into the challenges facing shipbuilding and naval strategy, the need for diverse naval capabilities, and the influence of Congress on naval development. The conversation also touches on personnel and leadership in the Navy, learning from past naval conflicts, and the impact of historical events on naval leadership. Bryan shares insights on future directions for naval operations, praises recent naval performance, and emphasizes the role of technology in naval warfare. The episode concludes with a discussion on collaboration between industry and military and Bryan’s final thoughts on future advocacy in the naval sphere. Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Guest Background 04:46: Reflections on Retirement and Career Path 07:35: Changes in Naval Environment Over the Years 11:17: The Importance of Relationships in Naval Policy 14:47: Challenges in Shipbuilding and Naval Strategy 18:03: The Need for Diverse Naval Capabilities 21:25: Congressional Influence on Naval Development 24:40: Personnel and Leadership in the Navy 28:14: Learning from Past Naval Conflicts 32:45: The Impact of Historical Events on Naval Leadership 36:08: Future Directions for Naval Operations 39:00: Praise for Naval Performance in Recent Operations 43:23: The Role of Technology in Naval Warfare 46:57: Collaboration Between Industry and Military 50:48: Final Thoughts and Future Advocacy

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  8. Episode 739: Pre-Thanksgiving Free for All

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    Episode 739: Pre-Thanksgiving Free for All

    Summary In this episode of Midrats, Sal and Mark discuss various aspects of national security, including military deployments, the influence of drug cartels, and the geopolitical dynamics in South America. They delve into the implications of China’s growing presence in the Western Hemisphere and the challenges posed by information warfare. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations surrounding military orders and reflects on the representation of military experiences in media, particularly in relation to the Vietnam War. Show LinksThe Last 600 MetersDoes Rep. Maggie Goodlander (D NH) really have your back?NORK labor to Russia to build dronesNauru President visits PRCCorbett, China, and CounterintelligenceThe Navy’s new unmanned acquisition officeTactical quantumSmall Wars Journal on the Future FightChapters 00:00: Welcome and Thanksgiving Reflections 02:11: Military Deployments and National Security 04:41: Venezuela and Drug Cartels 10:47: South America: Political Dynamics and Security 12:54: China’s Influence in the Western Hemisphere 20:31: Information Warfare and Disinformation 25:59: China’s Global Relationships and Military Strategy 30:03: The Role of Smaller Nations in Global Security 35:05: Technological Challenges in Modern Warfare 48:25: Legal and Ethical Considerations in Military Orders 01:00:34: Reflections on Vietnam and Military Representation

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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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