Midrats

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Episode 709: Midrats 15th Anniversary Show with Claude Berube Jan 06, 2025

Show notes

Happy New Year to everyone…and Midrats is back with you.
Join us today for a broad-ranging discussion for our 15th Anniversary Show with a regular guest since the start, Claude Berube.
The conversation will go who knows where, but we will begin by reflecting on how the defense media and information environment has evolved since 2010—not just from the perspective of the information consumer, but also in terms of where decision-makers turn for opinions and ideas. We’ll include some inside baseball as well, starting with how the relationship between the PAO world and the broader number and flavor of media has evolved.
Here’s to the 16th Season!
Claude Berube, PhD, is a retired Navy Commander and retired professor from the Naval Academy. He's worked on Capitol Hill and as a contractor for Naval Sea Systems Command and the Office of Naval Research. He also worked at the Office of Naval Intelligence. He is the author or co-author of eight books including his most recent. He is working on his ninth book, about the Navy and the lead up to World War 2. His new podcast about the United States Senate will begin later this month.
Showlinks

Powerline Blog and Dan Rather’s Memogate
MWI’s “Spear” podcast
The Failure of the Institutions
Claude’s “Siren’s Song” and other books
War on the Rocks
CIMSEC
Bill Roggio & Long War Journal
Sal Mergcogliano’s What’s Going on With Shipping
John Konrad’s gCaptain
Geopolitics Decanted Podcast
Information Dissemination blog, by Raymond Pritchett

Summary
In this episode of the MidRats podcast, hosts Sal and Mark celebrate the 15th anniversary of their show with guest Claude Berube. They discuss the evolution of information in national security, the impact of media on public perception, and the changing landscape of military communication. The conversation highlights the importance of accountability, transparency, and credible voices in media, as well as the collaborative nature of modern information sharing. They also look ahead to future projects and initiatives in the realm of military and national security communication.
Takeaways

The Midrats podcast has been a consistent platform for naval discussions for 15 years.
The evolution of information access has transformed national security discourse.
Public Affairs Officers have become more cautious in their engagement with the media.
The military's communication strategies have shifted significantly over the years.
Accountability and transparency are essential for maintaining public trust in the military.
A culture of untruth can undermine the credibility of official statements.
Independent media sources are increasingly important for accurate information.
Collaboration among information producers enhances the quality of discourse.
Future initiatives in military communication will focus on transparency and engagement.

Sound Bites

"It's amazing how fast time flies."
"This is the C-SPAN for the Navy."
"The future is disaggregated."

Chapters
00:00: Celebrating 15 Years of Midrats Podcast
02:16: The Evolution of Naval Information
06:28: Democratization of Media and Its Impacts
14:54: The Changing Role of Public Affairs in the Navy
27:11: Navigating a Culture of Untruth in Media
32:48: Independence in Media: The Value of Non-Sponsorship
35:31: The Role of Personalities in Information Dissemination
37:59: The Importance of Open Dialogue and Accountability
42:01: Self-Correction in New Media
44:48: The Credibility of Online Sources
47:40: The Future of Media and Influence
55:25: Upcoming Projects and Future Endeavors

Episode 708: The Icebreaker Imperative, with Peter Rybski Dec 15, 2024

Show notes

With one of the most militarily and energy strategic states in our union, Alaska, being in the Arctic, and the extensive interests we have on the other side of the planet in Antarctica, do you wonder why our nation’s icebreaking “fleet”—being what it is—amounts to an antique road show? Are you curious how our plan to replace them is making the LCS program look like a successful and well-run program? Can a nation of 335 million souls learn something from a nation of 5.5 million?
Today’s Midrats is for you with our guest, Peter Rybski.
Pete is a retired nuclear-trained surface warfare officer who has served on six different ships and a couple of overseas staffs. His last job on Active Duty was as the U.S. Naval Attache to Finland. It was in that position that he began a deep dive into icebreakers and icebreaking technology. Pete retired in 2021, but remained in Finland, where he and his family live 106 miles from the Russian border.Forgot the most important part- He writes about icebreakers, security policy, and general life in Finland over at his Substack, Sixty Degrees North.
Showlinks

Summary
This conversation delves into the critical role of icebreakers in U.S. Arctic strategy, highlighting the challenges faced by the U.S. Coast Guard in maintaining and expanding its icebreaker fleet. Guest Peter Rybski shares his experiences in Finland, where he developed a keen interest in icebreakers, and discusses the historical context of U.S. icebreaker capabilities compared to other nations. The dialogue also addresses procurement issues, legal challenges, and the necessity for armed icebreakers in the Arctic, culminating in a discussion about international cooperation through the Icebreaker Coalition.
Takeaways

The U.S. has not built an icebreaker in 50 years.
80% of the world's icebreakers are designed in Finland.
The Coast Guard has been slow to prioritize icebreaker needs.
China is rapidly expanding its icebreaker fleet.
The procurement process for U.S. icebreakers is dysfunctional.
International cooperation is essential for icebreaker capabilities.
The U.S. needs to consider purchasing foreign-built icebreakers.
Armed icebreakers are necessary for Arctic security.
The Icebreaker Coalition aims to enhance collaboration among allies.
Political will is crucial for advancing U.S. icebreaker strategy.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to Icebreakers and Arctic Strategy
06:10: Transitioning to Finland: A Personal Journey
13:03: The Importance of Icebreakers in Global Trade
18:12: Challenges in U.S. Icebreaker Procurement
24:34: The Complexity of Icebreaker Design and Construction
30:00: Understanding the Delays in Icebreaker Development
31:15: Legal and Political Constraints in Shipbuilding
34:34: The Need for a Comprehensive Icebreaker Strategy
37:17: Arming Icebreakers: A Strategic Discussion
43:52: The Icebreaker Coalition: Collaboration and Challenges
47:19: Finland's Defense Purchases and U.S. Relations
51:42: China's Growing Influence in Antarctica
53:53: Future Insights and Closing Thoughts

Episode 707: Who is on the Damascus Road, with Seth Folsom Dec 08, 2024

Show notes

Trying to get your mind around who the actors are in Syria as this 'frozen conflict' from the last decade begins to thaw?If you are concerned about international jihadist organizations, the security of Israel, instability caused by mass migration, rights of religious minorities in the Middle East, or human suffering, the cascading events in Syria should be in your scan.

Well, this Midrats is just for you. Returning to Midrats for the full hour to give an overview of the different players in the conflict, from the perspective of a US Marine who helped lead the fight in an earlier phase of this long conflict, will be Seth W.B. Folsom.
Seth is a retired Marine Corps colonel who served more than twenty-eight years in uniform. Throughout the Global War on Terror, he deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he commanded in combat at the company, battalion, and task force levels. A graduate of the University of Virginia, Naval Postgraduate School, and the Marine Corps War College, he also is the author of “The Highway War: A Marine Company Commander in Iraq;” “In the Gray Area: A Marine Advisor Team at War;” “Where Youth and Laughter Go: With ‘the Cutting Edge’ in Afghanistan;” and the forthcoming “Nothing Here Worth Dying For: Task Force Lion in Iraq.”
He lives with his family and their needy cat in Southern California.You can listen here or at the Spotify widget below:
Showlinks

Nothing Here Worth Dying For: Task Force Lion in Iraq, by Seth Folsom
Hardcore History Series, Dan Carlin

Summary
In this conversation, Sal, Mark, and Seth discuss the complexities of the Syrian conflict, drawing connections to historical events and the role of various actors involved. They explore the implications of the recent developments in Syria, including the potential for humanitarian crises and the influence of external forces. The discussion also touches on military strategies, the significance of ethnic and religious groups, and the challenges faced by the international community in addressing the situation.
Takeaways

The Syrian conflict is deeply intertwined with historical and regional complexities.
Jihadist groups in Syria present a complicated landscape that defies simple categorization.
Comparisons to past conflicts, such as the Afghan Civil War, highlight potential future challenges in Syria.
Ethnic and religious divisions in Syria complicate the political landscape and future governance.
External actors, including Turkey and Iran, play significant roles in shaping the conflict's outcome.
Humanitarian concerns are paramount as the situation in Syria evolves.
The international community's response to the crisis will be critical in determining future stability.

Chapters
00:00: Introduction to the Syrian Conflict
03:00: Task Force Lion and Its Role in Iraq and Syria
11:09: The Complexity of Syrian Factions
13:48: Comparisons to Historical Conflicts
19:49: The Future of Syria and Regional Implications
30:43: Historical Context and Military Logistics
36:20: The Evolving Threat of ISIS
38:03: Geopolitical Dynamics in the Middle East
44:27: Humanitarian Crisis and International Response
52:34: Reflections on Military Experience and Future Implications

Episode 706: The Midrats Horn of Plenty Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

Before everyone dives into a week of family and fasting, time to catch up with Sal and Mark on Midrats.From the retention crisis to some stark comments from senior leaders about the Western Pacific, we’ll cover the waterfront and more.
Showlinks

Summary
In this episode, Sal and Mark discuss the complexities of national defense, focusing on the importance of personnel in the military, the challenges of recruitment and retention, and the impact of deployment lengths on service members' lives. They explore the zero-sum nature of military personnel management, the strategic decisions that need to be made regarding deployments, and the role of allies in global military dynamics. The conversation critiques current military strategies and reflects on the future of military engagements, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of military policy and priorities. In this conversation, Sal and Mark discuss the economic vulnerabilities of nations, particularly focusing on the UK's reliance on maritime access and the implications for military readiness. They explore the challenges of budgetary pressures on defense spending, the inefficiencies within government bureaucracy, and the need for a reevaluation of military strategy in light of current geopolitical realities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of joint operations and the necessity for a more efficient allocation of resources to ensure national security.
Chapters
00:00: Introduction and Thanksgiving Greetings
03:02: The People Behind National Defense
06:10: Challenges in Retention and Recruitment
08:54: The Zero-Sum Game of Military Personnel
11:49: The Impact of Deployment Length on Retention
15:08: Strategic Decisions in Military Deployments
17:51: The Role of Allies and Global Military Dynamics
21:01: Critique of Current Military Strategies
23:58: The Complexity of International Conflicts
27:12: The Future of Military Engagements
29:56: Conclusion and Reflections on Military Policy
32:15: The Economic Vulnerability of Nations
35:52: Military Readiness and Strategic Realities
39:42: Budgetary Pressures and Social Welfare Challenges
43:17: Government Efficiency and Bureaucratic Challenges
49:10: Rethinking Military Strategy and Deterrence
57:11: The Future of Military Operations and Joint Forces

Episode 705: the Opportunities With Trump's Return, with Jerry Dunleavy Nov 18, 2024

Show notes

With 63 days until President Trump’s second inauguration and a new national security team lining up, what are the expected opportunities they will be looking to make an impact quickly? What should people be looking at? Where is the fruit ripe for the picking?
For the full hour we have returning guest, Jerry Dunleavy IV, author of Kabul: The Untold Story of Biden’s Fiasco and the American Warriors Who Fought to the End, Former investigative journalist for the Washington Examiner, & former senior investigator for the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
Summary:
In this conversation, Jerry Dunleavy discusses the implications of Trump's presidency, focusing on the shock experienced in Washington during his election and the subsequent challenges faced by the administration. He emphasizes the need for accountability regarding the Afghanistan situation and the potential pushback from entrenched bureaucracies. The conversation also touches on Trump's agenda for government reform and the overlooked threats posed by COVID and fentanyl, highlighting the intelligence community's lack of interest in these issues. The discussion concludes with reflections on the topics covered.
Chapters:
00:00: Introduction
02:22: Accountability in the Trump Administration
08:47: Lawfare and Political Resistance
09:09: Consequences of Intelligence Failures
09:34: The Hunter Biden Laptop Controversy
11:51: Politicization of Intelligence
14:01: Accountability in Intelligence and Military
19:54: Challenges in Military Leadership
28:43: National Security Challenges Ahead
33:49: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Military
44:43: China's Influence and Accountability
55:49: Future Directions and Closing Thoughts

Episode 704: A Post-Election Midrats Melee Nov 11, 2024

Show notes

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 Links

Chapters
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

Episode 703: Midrats Pre-Halloween Spooktacular! Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

Showlinks

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.
Takeaways

The 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 Japanese force."

Chapters
00:00: Introduction and Context Setting
01:55: China's Strategic Maneuvers Around Taiwan
09:55: The Implications of China's Actions
18:13: US Military Preparedness and Response
26:05: Challenges in Naval Strategy and Acquisition
32:07: Future of Military Development and Change Management
33:47: Navigating Naval Strategy and Fleet Composition
39:49: Lessons from History: The Taffy 3 Engagement
45:40: The Need for Modernization in Naval Warfare
52:19: Production Challenges in Military Readiness
56:05: Understanding Global Power Dynamics and Military Strategy

Episode 702: Mid October Maritime Melee Oct 14, 2024

Show notes

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 Links

Summary
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.
Takeaways

Disaster 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 readiness.
Military readiness is essential in the face of global power shifts.
The U.S. must focus on strategic partnerships to share defense burdens.
Sustainment logistics are critical for operational effectiveness.
The Navy's current operational tempo is wearing out ships.
There is a need for a reset in naval operations and strategy.
The U.S. must prepare for potential conflicts in the Pacific.
Historical lessons indicate the importance of proactive military readiness.

Chapters
00:00: Introduction and Hurricane Recovery Discussion
03:11: Disaster Preparedness and Maritime Solutions
06:09: Innovative Technologies in Disaster Response
09:55: Self-Sufficiency and Community Preparedness
14:09: Communication and Information Dissemination
18:49: Logistics and Water Transport in Emergencies
29:00: Military Logistics and Future Preparedness
33:11: Reloading Capabilities and Strategic Considerations
39:49: The Importance of Maintenance and Logistics
46:06: Military Readiness and Global Power Dynamics
56:58: Challenges in U.S. Naval Operations and Global Strategy

Episode 701: The Pentagon’s Gordian Knot, with Steve Deal Sep 30, 2024

Show notes

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

Episode 700: 20th & 21st Century Lessons with Chinese Characteristics: Toshi Yoshihara Sep 23, 2024

Show notes

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

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 analyzing past battles to inform its future strategies. The conversation also touches on the implications of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the concept of comprehensive national power in the context of military readiness and capability.
Takeaways

The PLA has not fought a major war since 1979, relying on historical analysis.
China studies past conflicts to inform its military strategies.
Logistics played a crucial role in the success of the US in the Pacific War.
Shore-based air power is essential for modern military operations.
The PLA recognizes its weaknesses in joint operations and is working to improve.
Intelligence gathering and analysis are vital for understanding adversaries.
The study of history is integral to military education in China.
The PLA draws lessons from both World War II and contemporary conflicts.
China is observing the Russia-Ukraine war for strategic insights.
Comprehensive national power is a key concept in assessing military capabilities.

Chapters
00:00: Introduction and Context of the Discussion
02:56: China's Learning from Historical Conflicts
09:12: Analyzing Key Battles of the Pacific War
20:44: Logistics and Its Importance in Warfare
27:53: The Concept of Joint Operations in Military Strategy
30:06: The Role of Intelligence in Modern Warfare
34:05: Intellectual Approaches to Military History
43:17: Lessons from the Japanese and American Military Strategies
48:56: Learning from the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
58:01: Comprehensive National Power and Its Implications

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