summary

In this conversation, Dr. Steve Call discusses the evolution of air support in military operations, focusing on the role of Tactical Air Controllers (TACPs) and the historical context of air-ground integration. He highlights lessons learned from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, emphasizing the importance of close air support (CAS) in modern warfare. Dr. Call also addresses current challenges facing CAS and the future of air support in the military, advocating for a deeper understanding of operational concepts versus strategies.

takeaways

• ALO tours were seen as a dark hole in careers.
• American military integrates air support tightly with ground units.
• The history of air-ground coordination is rich and complex.
• Lessons from WWII shaped modern air support strategies.
• Post-WWII, the Air Force focused on strategic bombing over CAS.
• Korean War required a reinvention of CAS tactics.
• Vietnam War established NCOs as key players in air support.
• Desert Storm showcased the effectiveness of CAS.
• Post-9/11 operations highlighted the need for coordination.
• Current trends threaten the effectiveness of CAS.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Steve Call

04:43
Steve's Military Background and Education

08:57
The Evolution of Tactical Air Control

12:48
The Importance of Air-Ground Integration

16:48
Historical Context of Close Air Support

20:57
The Dilemma of Air and Ground Forces

24:46
Post-War Air Power Perspectives

28:56
The Reinvention of Close Air Support

32:48
The Fighter Mafia and Its Impact

36:53
Lessons from History and Future Implications

37:41
The Impact of Desert Storm on Air Power

41:35
The Role of Close Air Support in Modern Warfare

53:49
Challenges Facing Close Air Support Today

56:47
The Future of Air Force Close Air Support

01:03:55
The A-10 vs. F-35 Debate

01:06:48
Final Thoughts on Close Air Support Strategy

Dr. Steve Calls Books:

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summary

In this episode, Scott interviews Ethan Thornton, the 21-year-old CEO of Mock Industries, a defense technology startup focused on creating innovative unmanned systems. They discuss the transition from traditional defense strategies to a new era of great power competition, the challenges of government contracting, and the importance of decentralized manufacturing. Ethan shares insights on the development of their products, Viper and Glide, and the cultural shifts needed within the defense sector to foster innovation and agility.

Mach Industries Website

takeaways

• Ethan Thornton is the CEO of Mock Industries, a defense tech startup.
• Mock Industries focuses on creating unmanned systems for modern warfare.
• The company aims to provide asymmetric capabilities to the U.S. military.
• Ethan emphasizes the importance of decentralized manufacturing in defense.
• The journey of building a startup in the defense sector is challenging but rewarding.
• Government contracts can be navigated successfully with the right approach.
• Cultural shifts are necessary within the defense bureaucracy to encourage innovation.
• The future of warfare will heavily involve unmanned systems and technology.
• Ethan's background as a tinkerer and engineer shapes his leadership style.
• Building a strong team is crucial for the success of a startup.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Mock Industries and Its Mission

06:13
Innovative Defense Technologies and Their Importance

09:24
The Viper: A Game-Changer in UAV Technology

12:17
Funding and Growth: From Idea to Reality

15:21
Navigating Government Contracts and Market Dynamics

18:26
Manufacturing Challenges and Strategies for Success

29:18
Contracting Vehicles and Prototyping Challenges

32:26
Balancing Capacity and Usability in Product Design

35:54
Business Models: The Key to Disruption in Defense

39:49
Building a Mission-Driven Team

42:44
Cultural Shifts Needed in the Defense Industrial Base

46:44
The Role of Unmanned Warfare in Modern Conflict

50:58
The Impact of Cultural Change on the Defense Sector

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Insights from Jamie Miller shed light on how Trump’s foreign policies align with the sentiments of his voter base. This episode reveals the evolving perceptions of national security among Americans and explores the implications behind Trump's strategic decisions.

• Unpacking Trump's "America First" philosophy
• The shift in Republican foreign policy strategy
• Voter perceptions on immigration, safety, and national security
• Understanding the implications of cabinet picks for Trump’s second term
• The possible risks of hardline immigration policies on geopolitics
• The evolving nature of America's role in global affairs

If you liked what you heard, please follow the podcast and share with your friends, and even consider going to the support the show link in the episode description.

Jamie Miller's Blog: https://reasonablearguments.com/

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