Episodes

  • Episode722: China's Overseas Bases & the Transition to War, with T.X. Hammes

    Episode722: China's Overseas Bases & the Transition to War, with T.X. Hammes
    May 5 2025
    The People’s Republic of China continues to expand its already well-established contestation of ownership, access, and control of ports throughout the world.

    They have done this in parallel with building the world’s largest navy and a diverse set of military capabilities clearly designed with one purpose—defeating the U.S. military in the Indo-Pacific.

    Returning to Midrats to discuss this and related topics is be T. X. Hammes.

    T.X. is a distinguished research fellow at the Center for Strategic Research, National Defense University. He served 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

    Show Links
    • China’s exploitation of overseas ports and bases
    • Kratos XQ-58 Valkyrie
    • Ares anti-ship cruise missile
    • Typhon
    • MWI Podcast: The Future Battlefield, from Europe to the Indo-Pacific
    • The Eastern Front
    Summary

    In this conversation, Sal, Mark, and T.X. Hammes discuss the implications of China's global expansion, particularly its military strategy and naval capabilities. They explore how China is leveraging its control over ports and logistics to challenge U.S. dominance in the Indo-Pacific. The discussion also delves into operational planning assumptions for potential conflict with China, the historical context of long wars, and the challenges facing U.S. military readiness. Innovative solutions for naval warfare, the importance of economic exhaustion and sea control, and the role of mines in modern warfare are also examined. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of military technology and the potential for leveraging civilian resources in military operations.

    Takeaways
    • China's global expansion poses significant challenges to U.S. interests.
    • The U.S. Navy must adapt to China's growing naval capabilities.
    • China's unconventional use of ports can disrupt global trade.
    • Long wars are historically common between healthy powers.
    • U.S. military readiness is not sufficient for a prolonged conflict.
    • Innovative solutions like missile barges could enhance naval warfare.
    • Economic exhaustion is a critical factor in long-term conflicts.
    • Mines could play a crucial role in modern naval strategy.
    • The focus should shift from platforms to payloads in military planning.
    • Leveraging civilian resources can enhance military capabilities.
    Chapters

    00:00: Introduction to China's Global Expansion
    02:36: China's Naval Capabilities and Strategic Ports
    10:42: Planning Assumptions for Potential Conflict
    21:29: Control of the Sea and Economic Exhaustion
    30:26: Utilizing Merchant Ships in Warfare
    33:27: Investing in Future Military Technologies
    35:44: Innovative Solutions for Pacific Defense
    40:11: The Role of Unmanned Systems in Modern Warfare
    42:57: Lessons from the Russo-Ukrainian War
    44:59: Adapting Combined Arms for Modern Conflicts
    48:44: The Importance of Flexibility in Naval Operations
    53:10: Building a Resilient Merchant Fleet
    55:57: Exploring New Strategies for Warfare
    01:00:50: Future Directions in Military Strategy
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    58 mins
  • Episode 721: Reforming the Pentagon, with Gary Anderson

    Episode 721: Reforming the Pentagon, with Gary Anderson
    Apr 28 2025
    With each new administration, there is opportunity for change and reform. In the new Trump Administration, reform isn’t seen as a secondary effect of a leadership change but as a requirement.What reform options should the new Pentagon leadership explore under the Trump Administration?

    Joining us to discuss this and related topics is Gary Anderson, Colonel, USMC (Ret.).

    A starting point for our conversation will be his recent article in The American Spectator, Real Military Reform Begins: Will Pete Hegseth be able to reverse our military’s decline.

    Gary retired as the chief of staff of the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab. He served as a special adviser to the deputy secretary of defense. He is an adjunct professor at George Washington University.

    Summary

    In this episode, Sal and Mark engage with Gary Anderson to discuss the current state of America's military, focusing on the need for reform and the implications of the Goldwater-Nichols Act. They explore the challenges facing the Marine Corps and Navy, the importance of revitalizing the defense industrial base, and the recent uptick in military morale and recruitment. The conversation also critiques the Force Design 2030 initiative and emphasizes the need for a more effective military education system and logistics support.

    Takeaways
    • America's military has been adrift for some time.
    • The rot in military effectiveness goes back decades.
    • The Goldwater-Nichols Act has had unintended consequences.
    • Careerism and ticket-punching are detrimental to military readiness.
    • Morale among military personnel is currently high.
    • The defense industrial base needs revitalization to keep up with adversaries.
    • Military education has shifted focus away from essential warfighting skills.
    • Logistics has been neglected in recent military operations.
    • War games should not be used to validate military concepts without scrutiny.
    Chapters

    00:00: Introduction to Military Reform and Change
    02:35: The State of America's Military
    10:42: Challenges in Military Education and Careerism
    18:36: The Need for Honest Feedback in Military Leadership
    26:16: Revitalizing the Defense Industrial Base
    29:15: Addressing the Crisis in Submarine Maintenance
    32:12: Revitalizing the Fleet: Innovative Solutions for Shipbuilding
    36:18: The Drone Dilemma: Quality vs. Quantity in Warfare
    41:04: Logistics in Modern Warfare: Lessons from the Past
    45:17: Morale in the Military: A Shift in Attitude
    51:15: Leadership Changes: Navigating New Directions
    54:00: Accountability in Military Decisions: The Need for Integrity
    58:44: War Games and Military Strategy: The Importance of Honest Analysis
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    51 mins
  • Episode720: Sen. Tim Sheehy on the Challenges and Opportunities Revitalizing the Navy

    Episode720: Sen. Tim Sheehy on the Challenges and Opportunities Revitalizing the Navy
    Apr 22 2025
    Many frustrated by the perceived lack of understanding of our nation’s maritime heritage requirements want new leaders with fresh ideas, unburdened by legacy entanglements. It is hoped that a younger cohort with military experience, preferably naval, in the House of Representatives and the Senate who bring to the job an additional background in business and industry will emerge to promote constructive change.

    Today’s guest fits the bill perfectly: the new Senator from Montana, Senator Tim Sheehy.

    Tim Sheehy is a father, husband, combat veteran, patriot, and an entrepreneur. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy class of 2008 with a B.S. in History, Tim completed several deployments and hundreds of missions as a US Navy SEAL Officer and Team Leader, deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and the Pacific region. Tim was honored to serve alongside many American heroes and was involved in dozens of engagements with enemy forces, earning him multiple combat decorations. Additionally, Tim completed a joint tour with Army Special Operations forces where he was privileged to complete US Army Ranger School and serve alongside the 5th Special Forces Group, 75th Ranger Regiment and other units within US Army Special Operations Command.

    Tim completed his active duty service as a mini submarine pilot and navigator specializing in sensitive undersea operations. After his active duty service, Tim fulfilled reserve duty as a recruiter and assessor for future naval officers. Tim was honorably discharged from the Naval Reserve in 2019.In 2014, Tim founded Belgrade-based Bridger Aerospace with all of his savings and an all-veteran team. Under his leadership, Bridger Aerospace and its sister company, Ascent Vision Technologies experienced rapid growth and created hundreds of Montana jobs. Ascent Vision Technologies was acquired by CACI in 2020, and Bridger Aerospace went public on the NASDAQ in 2023.

    Tim sits on the Senate Armed Services, Veterans’ Affairs, and Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.

    Summary

    In this conversation, Senator Tim Sheehy discusses his journey from Naval Academy graduate to U.S. Senator, emphasizing the need for a new generation of leaders in the maritime domain. He highlights the importance of revitalizing the Navy, addressing challenges in shipbuilding, and fostering bipartisan support for maritime strength. The discussion also touches on the need for innovation in naval strategy and acquisition processes, advocating for a shift in mindset towards risk-taking and adaptability in the face of modern challenges.

    Show Links
    • Operation Red Wings
    • Six Frigates
    • The Fall of Kabul
    Takeaways
    • Tim shares his journey from the Naval Academy to the Senate.
    • The importance of revitalizing the Navy is highlighted.
    • Challenges in shipbuilding and acquisition processes are discussed.
    • Bipartisan support for maritime strength is crucial.
    • Innovation in naval strategy is necessary for future readiness.
    • Quantity in naval assets is as important as quality.
    • A new shipbuilding paradigm is needed to meet modern demands.
    • Risk-taking should be encouraged in military leadership.
    • The Navy's historical context is essential for understanding current challenges.
    Chapters

    00:00: Introduction to Maritime Challenges and New Perspectives
    12:47: Senator Tim Sheehy's Journey: From Navy to Politics
    18:44: Revitalizing the Navy: Challenges and Opportunities
    24:37: Acquisition Paradigms and the Future of Naval Strategy
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    29 mins
  • Episode 719: NATO's Maritime North, with Dr. Sebastian Bruns

    Episode 719: NATO's Maritime North, with Dr. Sebastian Bruns
    Apr 14 2025
    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.

    Showlinks
    • How 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.

    Takeaways
    • The 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
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    1 hr
  • Episode 718: March Free for All

    Episode 718: March Free for All
    Mar 24 2025
    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.
    Takeaways
    • The 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
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    57 mins
  • Episode 717: The Maritime State, with Ross Kennedy

    Episode 717: The Maritime State, with Ross Kennedy
    Mar 16 2025
    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.

    Takeaways
    • The 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
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    53 mins
  • Episode 716: Mid-March Melee

    Episode 716: Mid-March Melee
    Mar 10 2025
    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 Links
    • Rear 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.

    Takeaways
    • The 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 Directions
    30:01: Navigating Military Transitions
    32:57: Optimism in Maritime Strategy
    36:49: Challenges in Global Security
    39:05: The Syrian Crisis and Its Implications
    45:30: North Korea's Military Developments
    52:59: Lessons from the Ukraine Conflict
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    57 mins
  • Episode 715: Securing Ukraine's Future Security, with Emma Ashford

    Episode 715: Securing Ukraine's Future Security, with Emma Ashford
    Mar 3 2025
    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 Security
    Summary

    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
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    58 mins