The Ancient Art of Modern Warfare

E104 Plan B: Rejecting Peace Nov 20, 2024

In a recent episode of my podcast series of “The Ancient Art of Modern Warfare” (E104) I described possibilities for an end to the fighting in Ukraine. Of course, any end to any armed conflict requires the agreement of both (or all) parties to the conflict. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is no different. It is entirely possible, perhaps likely, that one party does not want an end to the fighting. The other party, on the other hand, is not willing to accept peace, or even an armistice that rewards an invasion of their nation. I do not have any answers. This short episode is an addendum to Episode 104 in which I bring up some issues I think we should consider before any armistice or peace proposal is rejected.

As usual, the opinions in these podcasts are my own and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Department of Defense, anyone else in the U.S. Government, or any other organization I am or ever have been associated with.

Music: Wagner, R. and US Marine Corps Band, Siegfried’s Funeral March and Finale (Götterdammerung) from “Music of Richard Wagner” (1981) (Public Domain)

E105 Contractors on the Battlefield Nov 17, 2024

Last week, I attended the annual “Summit” meeting of the International Stability Operations Association, or #ISOA. This association includes 200 private corporations that support U.S. and friendly government engagement across the spectrum of stability, conflict, and post conflict operations. Presentations included speakers from the US Departments of Defense, State, Justice, Commerce, and USAID. Other speakers included representatives of the Ukrainian government, experts in cyber technology and artificial intelligence, and speakers representing companies currently providing private sector support in hostile environments, such as #Ukraine. The subject material was fascinating for what was said, and sometimes what was not said. A continuous stream of thought was why we were there. Why was it that these government agencies use private sector support in armed conflict, post-conflict, and disaster relief. That is the subject of this episode of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense, ISOA, or any other organization I am or have been affiliated with.

Reference: Kramer, F., The sixth domain: The role of the private sector in warfare, Atlantic Council (October 2024); https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/report/the-sixth-domain-the-role-of-the-private-sector-in-warfare/

Music:

Holst, G, The Planets, Mars Bringer of War Internet Archives, https://archive.org/details/GustavHolstThePlanetsMarsTheBringerOfWar_201709
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinimasound (Licensed)

E104: The Potential for Peace Nov 08, 2024

Is a negotiated peace possible, or even desirable between Russia and Ukraine? How can this be done without validating Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and encouragement of future aggression? These are critical questions to address as the incoming U.S. administration states that negotiating an end to that war and our involvement in it as one of its first priorities.

As usual, the opinions in these podcasts are my own and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Department of Defense, anyone else in the U.S. Government, or any other organization I am or ever have been associated with. (Although, if the Advanced Warfighting Working Group was still in existence, I would probably have convinced the members to endorse this.)

PS: Apologies for the sound of my voice as I am recovering from something or other.

Music:

Copland, A. & United States Marine Band. (2000) Fanfare for the Common Man, unpublished, Washington, DC. [Audio] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, (Fair use for educational purposes.)
The Army Strings, GarryOwen (Traditional) (Public Domain)
Kiilstofte, P., Freedom Fighters, Machinimasound (Licensed)

E103: Proportionality in Contemporary War Oct 18, 2024

We often hear that this or that military attack caused disproportionate civilian casualties. Most often, these accusations are directed against Israel, when they are not directed against the United States. I will be generous and presume that most of these accusations are based on a misconception of what proportionality in armed conflict means, and how it is different from proportionate use of force civil or human rights law circumstances. Proportionality in war is the subject of this episode of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.

Reference:

Although a main reference for almost all episodes is On War, by Carl von Clausewitz, a primary reference for this episode is Chapter 5.12 of the Department of Defense Law of War Manual, 2016 edition.

Music:

Holst, G. The Planets: Mars Bringer of War, downloaded from Internet Archive
Kilstoffe, Jens, The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)

E102: Catching Up Sep 29, 2024

What is the common theme to mercenaries, natural resources, hypersonic missiles, Gaza, and exploding pagers? I can think of several, but in a recent conversation with a colleague of mine, that common thread was challenges to the Law of War, or International Humanitarian Law. Can the notion of the law of war even survive in modern manifestations of armed conflict? I think it can, and it is just as important, if not more so, than in the mythical era of conventional war.

As usual, the views in these podcasts are my own and do not necessarily represent the views of the Department of Defense, any other organization, or any person I am or ever have been associated with.

Music:

Liszt, Les Preludes, the USMC Band. (Public Domain)
GarryOwen (Traditional), the Army Strings (Public Domain)

E101: Second Battle of Kursk, Part 2 Sep 05, 2024

The fighting in the Kursk Oblast is still ongoing, and it would be much to soon to derive any lessons to be learned from this event. This episode picks up from the previous episode, examining how this campaign might offer examples of concepts presented in previous podcasts of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare. Ukraine continues maneuver warfare at the tactical level, although as of this writing, nothing approaching the level of decisive action. Russia continues its World War I style offensive in the east, while the south has some interesting long-range strikes. The contrast between attrition warfare in the east and maneuver warfare in the north, combined with drones, deep fires, and partisan activity in Russian occupied areas all indicate that no prior form of warfare is obsolescent and all can exist simultaneously with modern techno-warfare.

Music:

Holst, G., The Planets: Mars, Bringer of War (Internet Archives)
The Army Strings, GarryOwen (Traditional) (Public Domain)
Kilstoffe, P., Freedom Fighters from Machinimasound

E100: The Second Battle of Kursk Aug 16, 2024

The war in Ukraine has taken a very interesting, and I think, exciting turn of events. The advent of combined arms maneuver warfare reminiscent of armored offensives in that region eight decades ago. It is impossible to conduct an in-depth analysis at this time. There is too much going on and we really know little about order of battle or Ukrainian objectives. StilI, I felt the need to talk about this ongoing battle for a several reasons. Most important of these is that it is an example of the type of maneuver warfare that is possible and should be a feature of this war.

Music:

Holst, G., The Planets: Mars, Bringer of War (Internet Archives)
Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinimasound (Licensed)

E99: Applying Friction and the Trinity for contemporary War and Peace Aug 11, 2024

Clausewitz’s descriptions of friction, taken with the often antagonistic interplay among his trinity of passion, policy, and probability, keep war in theory separate from war in practice. How does this look in real war? In this episode, I make my best guess about how friction and chaotic trinity might affect Russia’s “special military operation” in Ukraine.

If you missed the previous two episodes, I recommend that you take the time to do so before listening to this one.

E97: Friction in War

https://admin5.podbean.com/mayhemxpc/episodes/form/00XlnMhGdsld

E98: The Paradoxical Trinity of War (and Peace)

https://admin5.podbean.com/mayhemxpc/episodes/form/zpdgaRh85TV2

Reference:

Clausewitz, C. On War, Book One, Chapter One

(Note that I do not cite a specific publication of On War. I use different translations and the original German. Find a version that work best for you.)

Music:

Liszt, F. Totentanz; Nebolsin, Eldar(piano), Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra (Orchestra), Petrenko, Vasily (Conductor) https://www.naxos.com/CatalogueDetail/?id=8.570517 (Chosen because I was looking for chaotic music.)

The Army Strings, GarryOwen (Traditional) (Public Domain)

The Paradoxical Trinity of War (and Peace) Jul 19, 2024

Clausewitz wrote that there are three forces at work when a nation goes to war: “unbridled passion,” reason, and the play of chance and probability. Things only work well when each of these is held in equilibrium by the other two. The people, the government, and the military represent these forces and the government should, in theory, maintain that equilibrium. In practice, this never happens. Instead, the interplay among these is random and seemingly chaotic. Each aspect of the nation and the force it represents, must deal with friction within their group and friction from and within the other groups. The pendulum that swings among these power centers is also influenced by external forces including, but certainly not limited to, the enemy. This, with the friction described in the previous episode, adds to the apparent irrationality of war and generates diversions along the path to peace.

Reference:

Clausewitz, C. On War, Book One, Chapter One

(Note that I do not cite a specific publication of On War. I use different translations and the original German. Find a version that work best for you.)

Randomly Oscillating Magnetic Pendulum (from the clausewitz.com website.): https://www.clausewitz.com/MP4/romp2.mp4

Music: (Chosen because I was looking for chaotic music.)

Liszt, F. Totentanz; Nebolsin, Eldar (piano), Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra (Orchestra), Petrenko, Vasily (Conductor) https://www.naxos.com/CatalogueDetail/?id=8.570517

E97: Friction in War Jul 13, 2024

War is really very simple, but Clausewitz cautioned that by saying that in war, even the simplest thing is difficult, sometime insurmountable. This idea, which he called “Friction” he maintained was the one thing that made war in theory different from war in practice. The elements that create friction in war also apply to the effort to move from war to peace; and the primary source of friction? Human nature.

Music:

Wagner, R. and the USMC Band, Siegfried’s Funeral (Public Domain)

The Army Strings, GarryOwen (Traditional) (Public Domain)

Kilstoff, Jan, The Cavalry (Licensed)

E96: What is Peace? Jun 28, 2024

If the only acceptable outcome of war is a peace, and the only sustainable peace is a just peace, then it is essential to answer the question, “what is peace?” This is a simple question, but without a simple answer. It has been debated from Plato up until the present day. This lack of definition may be one reason why the transition from war to peace is so difficult.

Music:

Holst, G: The Planets, Mars, the Bringer of War (Internet Archive: https://archive.org/details/GustavHolstThePlanetsMarsTheBringerOfWar_201709)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Wagner, R. and USMC Band, Siegfried’s Funeral March, Public Domain.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own analysis and opinion and does not represent the views of the Department of Defense or any organization I am or have been affiliated with.

E95: Justum Pacem Jun 17, 2024

The subject of Just War, or Justum Bellum, is a frequent topic in these podcasts. If, however, the only acceptable justification for any war is to establish a more just and lasting peace, shouldn’t there be a similar framework for Just Peace, or Justum Pacem? Just War theory goes back to Plato and Aristotle, but Just Peace thinking is a product of the last century. Despite a lack of concrete formulation, past examples of successful post-conflict transitions included efforts to establish a just peace. Sadly, there are more examples of unjust peace, which -- as Immanuel Kant noted -- plants the seeds of future war.

Music:

Liszt, Les Preludes, perfomed by the USMC Band. Public Domain
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Mozart, W. A. and Karajan, K., The Requiem Mass In D Minor, Introitus, K.626, (1941), downloaded from The Internet Archive https://archive.org/details/12-bruno-kittel-mozart-requiem-agnus-dei-polydor-1941_202308

Photo:

Perpetual Peace Lily, Aganpanthus Africanus (Wikimedia Commons)

E94: Fighting a War that leads to Peaace Jun 11, 2024

In Chapter 17 of the Prince, Nicolo Machiavelli wrote that a prince ought to desire to be thought of as clement and not cruel. It is more important, he said, to generate a respectful fear which, in then end, is actually more merciful than those who pursue reputations of mercy. Under no circumstances, however, should the prince become hated. This concept also applies to war, moving from war to peace, and the justice sustained peace requires.

Music:

Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Copland, A. & United States Marine Band. (2000) Fanfare for the Common Man. unpublished, Washington, DC. [Audio] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, (Fair use for educational purposes.)
Verdelot, P. and Machiavelli, N. O Dolce Nocte (1547) downloaded from ChoralWiki/CPDL

E93 Starting on the Path to Peace Jun 02, 2024

Just as it takes two parties to agree to fight a war, it takes both parties to agree to peace. Getting both warring parties to agree to peace sometimes requires a third party. This third party provides “good offices” to help both sides agree on what peace should look like. It also helps when each party understands the political objectives of the others – and the “disinterested” third party has its political objectives, too!

Music:

Wagner, R. and USMC Band, Siegfried Funeral and Goetterdammurung (Public Domain)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Copland, A. & United States Marine Band. (2000) Fanfare for the Common Man. unpublished, Washington, DC. [Audio] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, (Fair use for educational purposes.)

Image: Bakhmut, Ukraine; Ukrainian Army Photo

E92 Deciding to End War May 26, 2024

Ending a war begins when one side or the other believes that the cost of continuing to fight exceeds any expectations of success. This could be a simple cost benefit calculation, it could be that continuing to fight after a major defeat is unlikely to bring success, or that the war aims have already been achieved and any further violence is unjustified. In each case, one side or another has to make the decision to seek peace, or at least to end the fighting. That decision, however necessary, is only one step on the difficult path to bring peace out of war (and it isn’t even the first step.)

Music:

The United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, Soldiers Farewell Fanfare/Montezuma/March of War/Windsor Park, (Public Domain)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)

Image: Bakhmut, Ukraine; Ukrainian Army Photo

E91 From War to Peace May 17, 2024

My podcasts on The Ancient Art of Modern Warfare presented the elements of war that I think every citizen should know in holding our elected representatives responsible for decisions about going to and prosecuting war. The time has come in this series to move from war to peace. The most important consideration in going to and in prosecuting war is that it is the only way to correct a grave injustice and bring about a more just and lasting peace. Correcting this grave injustice must outweigh the death and destruction unavoidable in any war. Defending against the unjust attack of an aggressor and repelling the attacker’s forces from the territory captured in that attack is, perhaps the only clear justification, although there is debate about the use of military force to stop grave violations of international law, and particularly those which could be considered crimes against humanity. Again, this must be done with the clear end state in view of restoring peace. Once the iron dice of war are rolled, however, Clausewitz’s trinity of passion, reason, and chance can lead us to places we did not intend to go. These closing episodes of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare we explore the transition from the violence of war to that more just peace.

Music:

Copland, A. & United States Marine Band. (2000) Fanfare for the Common Man. unpublished, Washington, DC. [Audio] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, (Fair use for educational purposes.)

Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)

Lennon, J, (1969) performed by COL C Mayer, USA RET; Maj. D. Mayer, CAP; 2d Lt M. Mayer, USAF; and PFC C. Mayer, USA (2024) Give Peace a Chance (Fair use for educational purposes.)

Thucydudes and the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare Mar 21, 2024

“The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.” So begins L.P. Hartley’s book, The Go-Between. Although the way people do things changes over time, what they do remains largely the same. War and politics are human endeavors, and human nature is unchanging. It should be no surprise, therefore, that the nature of war and politics is also unchanging. That is the point of these podcasts. The first objective history of war, the war between Athens and Sparta in the 5th century BC was chronicled by the Greek general Thucydides. Although the way the armies and navies fought then are much different than today, the overall campaigns and reasons for those campaign are strikingly similar to modern strategy. Thucydides’ observations provide lessons for us, even today, if we are just willing to learn from them. This why his work is still studied in our war colleges.

Music:

Rodgers and R.R. Bennett, Fire on the Water/Victory at Sea Suite (Public Domain/Fair use for educational purposes)

Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)

Copland, A. & United States Marine Band. (2000) Fanfare for the Common Man. unpublished, Washington, DC. [Audio] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, (Fair use for educational purposes.)

E89 Sun Who? Mar 10, 2024

“Sun Tzu said: The art of war is of vital importance to the State. It is a matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence it is a subject of inquiry which can on no account be neglected.” My purpose in my podcasts of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare. But who is Sun Tzu, and how is what he said relevant to modern warfare?

Music:

Holst, G., The Planets: Mars, Bringer of War (Internet Archives)
Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)

E88: Who is thes Clausewitz Guy? Feb 14, 2024

Who is this Clausewitz guy?

The Army War College studies many different theories and theorists of war, from Thucydides of ancient Athens, Sun Tzu of Wu Dynasty in China, to Machiavelli, Mitchell, and present day theorists. One name stands out among the others, the early 19th century enlightenment era military philosopher, the Prussian Major General and War College Director, Carl von Clausewitz. It is not just the US Army War College. Russian and Chinese military teaching also centers on his ideas. Why? Who was he and why do I cite him so often in my podcasts (and in conversation, my papers, etc.) Working within my self-imposed limit of eight minutes, I try to explain this as best I can.

These podcasts are not monetized or subsidized in any way. The opinions expressed in these podcasts are my own and do not necessarily reflect any organization I am or have ever been associated with – and fall far short of doing justice to Carl and Marie von Clausewitz.

Music:

Piefke, J.G. Preussens Gloria, Internet Archive, https://archive.org/details/PreussensGloria_201708
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)

E87: Identifying the End State Jan 27, 2024

There are more than 110 armed conflicts in the world today.[1] Ending any one of them requires more than a simple cease fire, it requires knowing what each side intends to achieve by the conflict. This is even true when the participants may not fully understand the end state they are seeking. This includes the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Without addressing those desired end states any ceasefire merely gives time for the warring parties to refit for the next battles. Whenever our country starts on the path to armed conflict, the citizens must demand that our government know and tell us, “How does this end?”

These podcasts are not monetized or subsidized in any way, nor do they represent anyone’s opinion but my own.

Music:

Holst, G., The Planets: Mars, Bringer of War (Internet Archives)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)

E86: Is an End State Important? Jan 21, 2024

If I initiate a war, it seems logical that I would know why I am starting that war and what I expect to achieve by it. It might also be helpful if I let my opponent know that, too, as it may help limit the intensity duration, and long-term effects of that war. Why that is and how that does or doesn’t reflect reality is the subject of this and following episodes of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.

These podcasts are not monetized or subsidized in any way, nor do they represent anyone’s opinion but my own.

Reference: Carl von Clausewitz, On War, Book One, Chapter One

Music:

Holst, G., The Planets: Mars, Bringer of War (Internet Archives)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)

E85: Naming the Rose Part 5 -- Why don’t we take action? Jan 14, 2024

The Wagner Group is only one of about two dozen Russian sponsored semi-private military companies conducting combat operations in Ukraine, Africa, and elsewhere. If the operations of the companies violate relevant national and international laws, why aren’t criminal charges being filed against Wagner, affiliated entities, and its operatives? I believe that the answer is more political than legal. I address what some of these political considerations may be in this episode of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.

Disclaimer: These podcasts are not monetized or subsidized in any way, nor do they represent anyone’s opinion but my own.

Music:

Wagner, R. and the USMC Band, Siegfried’s Funeral (Public Domain)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)

E84: Naming the Rose, Part 4 -- Tools for Accountability Jan 06, 2024

If we can agree that Russian mercenary-like organizations do not meet the legal criteria of being mercenaries, nor are they legitimate members of the armed forces, then their participation in combat must be illegitimate and their actions criminal. The question remains how to hold those criminal combatants accountable under law. This episode explores the tools for such accountability.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts do not represent the positions of any organization I am or ever have been associated with. They represent no one's opinions but my own.

References

Geneva Convention Relative to The Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War of 12 August 1949
International Committee of the Red Cross, Interpretive Guidance on the Notion of Direct Participation in Hostilities
Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Asset Control; Transnational Criminal Organizations Sanctions Program

Music:

Wagner, R. and the USMC Band, Siegfried’s Funeral (Public Domain)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)

Naming the Rose Part 3 Dec 15, 2023

If the Wagner Group and two dozen or so similar Russian paramilitary forces are not mercenaries, not PMSCs, not militia or volunteer corps, then what are they? If the term terrorist to too vague and a criminal organization insufficient, then what can we call them that facilitates accountability for their criminal behavior? Maybe, jut calling them criminals is enough. In Part 3 I propose calling them for what they are, criminals. I will follow this in the next and final episode of this series by examining the means and methods to hold these criminals accountable and bring them to justice.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense or any other organization I am or have previously been affiliated with.

Music:

Wagner, R. and the USMC Band, Siegfried’s Funeral (Public Domain)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Kiilstofte, P., Mercenaries, Machinamasound (Licensed)

References:

Dinstein, Y., Unlawful Combatancy, https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1312&context=ils
Hague Convention (IV) respecting the Laws and Customs of War on Land and its annex: Regulations concerning the Laws and Customs of War on Land. The Hague, 18, October 1907, Annex, Chapter 1, Article 1
Geneva Convention Relative to the Treatment Of Prisoners of War of 12 August 1949, Article 4

Naming the Rose, Part 2 Dec 09, 2023

If Wagner and similar Russian mercenary-like organizations do not meet the internationally accepted criteria for being mercenaries or Private Military and Security Companies, then what are they? This podcast explores the suitability of other terms, including militia, volunteer corps, terrorist, and criminal organizations. The challenge is to find a term that accurately describes what they are in a way that offers the possibility for accountability under the law.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense or any other organization I am or have previously been affiliated with.

(In response to comments received, I am trying to keep each podcast down to about 8 minutes.)

References:

Hague Convention (IV) respecting the Laws and Customs of War on Land and its annex: Regulations concerning the Laws and Customs of War on Land. The Hague, 18, October 1907, Annex, Chapter 1, Article 1

Geneva Convention Relative to the Treatment Of Prisoners of War of 12 August 1949, Article 4

Music:

Wagner, R. and the USMC Band, Siegfrieds Funeral (Public Domain)

Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)

Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)

E81: Naming the Rose Nov 30, 2023

Whether the infamous Wagner continues to exist or not, the problem they created is only growing. There may be more than 30 Russian paramilitary organizations operating across the world, many of them fighting in Ukraine. At least one has a reputation from brutality and criminal conduct rivaling Wagner’s. But what do we call them? They do not fulfil the definition of mercenary in some international conventions, and they are not PMSCs as understood in internationally agreed frameworks or by the UN Working Group on Mercenaries. Holding them accountable under law requires proper definition of what they are and the legal regime to hold them accountable. This problem is the subject of this episode of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense or any other organization I am or have previously been affiliated with.

Music:

Listzt, F. and the USMC Band, Les Preludes (Public Domain)

Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)

Kiilstofte, P., Mercenaries, Machinamasound (Licensed)

References:

Article 47, Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949 and relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts (Protocol I), 8 June 1977. https://ihl-databases.icrc.org/en/ihl-treaties/api-1977/article-47#:~:text=Article%2047%20%2D%20Mercenaries,-1.&text=A%20mercenary%20shall%20not%20have,or%20a%20prisoner%20of%20war

E80: Rules for the Use of Force for Private Security Companies Nov 15, 2023

The presence of Private Security Companies, or PSCs, in conditions of armed conflict continues to be an item of concern to the international community. PSCs seem to blur the distinction between combatants and civilians. They use force, but are not members of the armed forces. Rules for the Use of Force, appropriate to PSC tasks and restrictions under international and local national law, issued by a competent authority and properly enforced, can clarify this murky condition. This episode describes procedures and considerations for developing Rules for the Use of Force relevant to PSCs operating in conditions of armed conflict, post-conflict, and complex emergencies.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense or any other organization I am or have previously been affiliated with. I am not a military lawyer. Everything I know about drafting RUF came from experience doing that, the wise counsel from experts in the US Department of Justice and the DoD Office of the General Counsel, along with some memorable debates in various international negotiations. Once again, special thanks to the memory of Col. Hays Parks, USMC Ret. Thanks also to Capt. Dennis Mandsager, JAGC USN (Ret.)

Music:

Listzt, F. and the USMC Band, Les Preludes (Public Domain)

Kiilstofte, P., Mercenaries, Machinamasound (Licensed)

References:

The Montreux Document On pertinent international legal obligations and good practices for States related to operations of private military and security companies during armed conflict, available at https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/fdfa/foreign-policy/international-law/international-humanitarian-law/private-military-security-companies/montreux-document.html

Newport Rules of Engagement Handbook, U.S. Naval War College, available at https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2998&context=ils

Sanremo Handbook on Rules of Engagement, the International Institute of Humanitarian Law, available at https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjdtL7pue-BAxUovokEHS03DrAQFnoECBAQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fiihl.org%2Fsanremo-handbook-rules-engagement%2F&usg=AOvVaw2Mfr7ljzl1-c6EEgmxJCZ2&opi=89978449

DODD 5210.56 w C1, Arming and the Use of Force, available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodd/521056p.PDF?ver=PIvIb3eht0obgolnD0UCEw%3d%3d

UN Office of Drugs and Crime, Handbook on the Use of Force by Private Security Companies available at https://www.unodc.org/documents/Maritime_crime/19-02086_Private_Security_Company_Handbook_Maritime_Crime_ebook.pdf

E79: Rules for the Use of Force Nov 03, 2023

The mission of the US Army is to fight and win our nation’s wars. That, however, is not the only task we ask the Army to perform in potentially hostile environments. Missions such as military support to civil authority, humanitarian assistance missions, and disaster relief are not governed by the law of war, but by human rights law. In this context, military use of force is regulated by Rules for the Use of Force (RUF), rather than the combat-oriented Rules of Engagement (ROE). This episode describes the difference between ROE and RUF, the challenges in drafting RUF that can accomplish peacetime missions and protect our troops, while complying with applicable civilian law regarding use of force and firearms.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense or any other organization I am or have previously been affiliated with. I am not a military lawyer. Everything I know about drafting RUF came from experience doing that, the wise counsel from experts in the US Department of Justice and the DoD Office of the General Counsel, along with some memorable debates in various international negotiations. Once again, special thanks to the memory of Col. Hays Parks, USMC Ret. Thanks also to Capt. Dennis Mandsager, JAGC USN (Ret.)

Music:

Bagley, E. and The US Army Ceremonial Band, National Emblem, Public Domain

Kiilstofte, P., Mercenaries, Machinamasound (Licensed)

References:

Newport Rules of Engagement Handbook, U.S. Naval War College https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2998&context=ils

Sanremo Handbook on Rules of Engagement, the International Institute of Humanitarian Law https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjdtL7pue-BAxUovokEHS03DrAQFnoECBAQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fiihl.org%2Fsanremo-handbook-rules-engagement%2F&usg=AOvVaw2Mfr7ljzl1-c6EEgmxJCZ2&opi=89978449

CJCSI 33121.01B Standing Rules of Engagement/Standing Rules for the Use of Force, declassified version available at: https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/FOID/Reading%20Room/Joint_Staff/20-F-1436_FINAL_RELEASE.pdf

DODD 5210.56 w C1, Arming and the Use of Force, available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodd/521056p.PDF?ver=PIvIb3eht0obgolnD0UCEw%3d%3d

E78: ROE and the Law of War Oct 26, 2023

How do rules of engagement promote compliance with the laws of war when those fighting war seem to do so without any basic consideration of humanity? I think that to answer this question, we must revisit the laws and customs of war, sometimes called International Humanitarian Law. This includes understanding that not every act of violence in war is a war crime. Effective ROE is a control to manage the risk that the violence inherent to war does not become an excuse for war crimes.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense or any other organization I am or have previously been affiliated with. I am not a military lawyer. Everything I know about law of war came from staff judge advocates telling me what I couldn’t do or how to do the things I wanted to do without going to jail. Special thanks to the memory of Col. Hays Parks, USMC Ret.

Music: Holst, G: The Planets, Mars, the Bringer of War (Internet Archive: https://archive.org/details/GustavHolstThePlanetsMarsTheBringerOfWar_201709)

Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinimasound (Licensed)

References:

The ICRC Casebook, glossary: https://casebook.icrc.org/a_to_z/glossary/war-crimes
18 U.S. Code § 2441 - War crimes

Geneva Conventions of 1949: https://ihl-databases.icrc.org/en/ihl-treaties/geneva-conventions-1949additional-protocols-and-their-commentaries

Operational Law Handbook, The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School Charlottesville, Virginia, Chapter 5 (2022)

E77: Rules of Engagement Oct 14, 2023

Rules of engagement, or ROE, often get a bad reputation. But what are rules of engagement and why do we need them? If well constructed, ROE focus military action, manage risk of unintended consequences, such as escalation of the conflict and violations of the law of war, and as an economy of force, by minimizing unproductive action. On the other hand, poorly constructed, complex, or difficult to understand ROE, can result in the death of persons who pose no military threat or can surrender tactical advantages leading to unnecessary loss of friendly lives and mission failure. This episode describes what Rules of Engagement are, how they are constructed, and the important role they serve in modern armed conflict.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense or any other organization I am or have previously been affiliated with.

Music: Holst, G: The Planets, Mars, the Bringer of War (Internet Archive: https://archive.org/details/GustavHolstThePlanetsMarsTheBringerOfWar_201709)

Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinimasound (Licensed)

References: Newport Rules of Engagement Handbook, U.S. Naval War College https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2998&context=ils

Sanremo Handbook on Rules of Engagement, the International Institute of Humanitarian Law https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjdtL7pue-BAxUovokEHS03DrAQFnoECBAQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fiihl.org%2Fsanremo-handbook-rules-engagement%2F&usg=AOvVaw2Mfr7ljzl1-c6EEgmxJCZ2&opi=89978449

E76: Limited War with China Sep 07, 2023

It is probable that Russia’s lack of success in Ukraine gives the People’s Republic of China cause for reconsidering any existing plans for an invasion of the Republic of China on Taiwan. Perhaps, using the PRC’s unrestricted war model, they might instead resort to pursuing limited aims that will set conditions for later strategic victory. In other words, limited war. But what is limited war and is limited war even possible in the 21st Century?

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the US Army War College, the Department of Defense, or any other organization I am or have been affiliated with.

Music: List: Les Preludes; Abergavenny Symphony Orchestra (Public Domain)

Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinimasound (Licensed)

Wagner Decapitated? Aug 26, 2023

Wagner is dead, or apparently so. At least the senior leadership of PMC Wagner, along with Wagner himself, Dmitri Utkin. What does this mean? Anyone who says they know is either deluding you or deluding themselves. Although the specifics may be in doubt, I believe that Wagner will continue in some form if not in that name. Prigozhin’s statement from Mali last week is correct. The services Wagner type operations provide to Russian strategic interests are too valuable to set aside.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the US Army War College, the Department of Defense, or any other organization I am or have been affiliated with.

Music:

Wagner, R. and USMC Band, Siegfried’s Funeral March, Public Domain.

Kiilstofte, P., Mercenaries, Machinimasound (Licensed)

E74: Niger -- Military Coup as Hybrid Warfare? Aug 19, 2023

Does the recent coup in Niger affect US security interests, or is it just one more coup on a coup plagued continent? Or is it something more than that? Could it be the next campaign in a Hybrid War? If so, who are the contestants?

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the US Army War College, the Department of Defense, or any other organization I am or have been affiliated with

Music:

Liszt, F. and the USMC Band, Les Preludes, Public Domain

Kiilstofte, J., Mercenaries, Machinimasound (Licensed)

E73 Triumph of the Will Aug 12, 2023

Clausewitz wrote that war is an act of violence to force the enemy to do our will. But what is that “will?” A 2019 Rand Study found that there is no official or agreed definition of “will” in the context of warfighting. In this episode, I tackle the question of what will means, why it is important, and the dangers going to war without a national will for victory.

(Note: I am full aware of the title. It just sounded more catchy than "The Will to Fight.")

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the US Army War College, the Department of Defense, or any other organization I am or have been affiliated with

Music:

Holst, G. The Planets: Mars, Bringer of War, Internet Archives, https://archive.org/details/GustavHolstThePlanetsMarsTheBringerOfWar_201709

Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinimasound (Licensed)

E72: Warfighting Capabilities Aug 05, 2023

Strategy is the application of ways and means to achieve an end. But what are means? This podcast describes the need to look beyond the weapons and other warfighting platforms to, instead, identify the capabilities needed to fight wars. Weapons systems and other elements of national power are resources to enable those capabilities.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the US Army War College, the Department of Defense, or any other organization I am or have been affiliated with

Music:

Liszt, F. and the USMC Band, Les Preludes (Public Domian)

Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinimasound (Licensed)

E71: War College for Civilians Jul 30, 2023

What if I told you that civilians can attend the US Army War College? Not US Government employees, but civilians from all walks of life and professions? Two times each year, the Army War College offers that opportunity through its National Security Seminar and Commandant's National Security Program. In this podcast, I describe that program and interview faculty and guests during Battlefield Staff Ride.

Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is purely my own and does not represent the official position of the US Army War College or the Department of Defense. In keeping with the non-attribution policy of the War College (Chatham House Rules) the names of persons interviewed are withheld.

For official information about these programs, visit: https://ssl.armywarcollege.edu/dde/cnsp/index.cfm

https://usawc.org/commandants-national-security-program-cnsp/

https://www.csl.army.mil/nss/

https://usawc.org/national-security-seminar-nss/

Music:

Copland, A. & United States Marine Band. (2000) Fanfare for the Common Man. unpublished, Washington, DC. [Audio] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, (Fair use for educational purposes.)

Sousa, J.P., & The US Amy Ceremonial Band. National Emblem (Public Domain)

E70: Why We Shouldn’t Help Ukraine Jul 22, 2023

The decision whether to help Ukraine is not as black and white as it may appear. Episode 69 described reasons the United States and other nations should help Ukraine. In this episode, I address the other side, reasons why helping Ukraine is either wrong or dangerous. Choosing the right path forward requires us to understand both sides of the argument.

As is the case with all of these podcasts, the views expressed are solely my own and do not represent the Department of Defense, the US Army War College, or any other organization I am associated with.

Music: Wagner, Siegfried Funeral March, recorded by the USMC Band (Public Domain.)

E69: Ukraine -- Why Should We Care? Jul 17, 2023

Why does Russia’s invasion of Ukraine affect us, or other nations? Isn’t that a matter between Russia and Ukraine? Isn’t our involvement only risking escalation and perhaps a global war? In short, why should we care? This episode of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare address the first part, why we should care. The next episode will describe and evaluate reasons for staying out of it.

E68: Whither Wagner? Jun 24, 2023

What is going on in Russia? Has Prigozhin lost his mind? Or is Wagner merely chess pieces being manipulated by a political chess master? I offer this special podcast in the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare to review points from previous podcasts on Wagner and military coups in light of breaking events in Russia. Even if this is all over by the time you see this, it may be worthwhile to look and see where Prigozhin did what was needed for success or where he missed the mark.

Again, the views presented in these podcasts are my own and do not represent any organization I am currently or previously affiliated with.

Music: List: Les Preludes; Abergavenny Symphony Orchestra (Public Domain)

E67: Is Russia at War? Jun 17, 2023

On February 23, 2022, the Russian Federation violated the territorial integrity of Ukraine – for the second time in a decade – calling it a “special military operation.” It certainly looks more like a war, but is it really a war? This podcast looks at the current Russian invasion in light of the definitions of war in Episode 7, which include war in theory, practice, and in international law.

These podcasts do not necessarily represent the views of the Department of Defense, the Army War College, or any other organization I am associated with (but they should!)

Music: Holst, “The Planets: Mars Bringer of War,” downloaded from the Internet Archive https://archive.org/details/lp_holst-the-planets_gustav-holst-leopold-stokowski-los-angeles

(Once again, my move conflicts with proper recording equipment.)

E66: The Role of Citizens in Going to War Jun 08, 2023

The United States of America is a republic founded on democratic principles. Not a democracy, but a republic. That means that, except in rare circumstances, the citizens do not vote on issues at the national level. Instead, we elect representatives of the people and of the component states of the United States to make those decisions. That does not, however, absolve those citizens for decisions about war, peace, what goes before, and what comes after. This episode addresses the role of the citizenry in national military strategy and how to properly exercise that role.

Music:

Traditional folksong, “Garryowen,” recorded by the U.S. Army Strings

Copland, "Fanfare for the Common Man"

Holst, “The Planets: Mars Bringer of War,” downloaded from the Internet Archive https://archive.org/details/lp_holst-the-planets_gustav-holst-leopold-stokowski-los-angeles

Richard Wagner, “Siegfried Fantasie,” recorded by the USMC Band

E65: The Battlefield Staff Ride May 20, 2023

Why do we study old battles? Historic examples of strategy help us to understand enduring lessons about why nations win or don’t win wars. But historic battles and campaigns were fought using weapons, tactics, and other technology that have little relevance to modern warfare. What is the value in studying them and if we should, then how should we go about it? This episode describes one technique: the Battlefield Staff Ride.

The views in these podcasts are my own and do not necessarily represent the views of the Department of Defense or any other organization I have been associated with.

Music: Liszt, Les Preludes, perfomed by the USMC Band. Public Domain

E64 Military Coup d’États Mar 12, 2023

In Episode 64, Why Wagner, I said one possible risk associated the Wagner Group is the potential that, like previous elite and ostensibly politically reliable mercenary forces, Wagner could be a threat to the Russian government. But what is the likelihood of that happening? This episode explores how military or paramilitary forces might turn on their own governments in a coup d’état.

Disclaimer: The views in these podcasts are my own and do not represent the official position of any organization I might be affiliated with.

Music: Liszt: Les Preludes, recorded by the USMC Band. Public Domain

E63: Why Wagner? Jan 24, 2023

In the past few months, Moscow has used the Wagner Group as the centerpiece in recent military operations in Ukraine. This is very different from how Wagner has been used in Africa. Why is Putin giving a quasi-mercenary organization such a central and visible role in its war with Ukraine? There could be different reasons, each of which present advantages and significant risks: risks for Putin, for Russia, for Ukraine, and for future conflict and conflict resolution.

Music: Liszt, Les Preludes; recorded by the USMC Band. Music and recording in Public Domain.

E62: Mercenaries, Terrorism, and War Crimes Jan 10, 2023

The difference between war and terrorism is that war is, in theory, governed by international law, whereas terrorism is criminal in nature and execution. So where does that leave the use of mercenaries in modern warfare, and particularly the infamous Wagner Group? Are they terrorists? Are they legitimate combatants? Are they both or something else? Can official designation as a Foreign Terrorist Organization close an accountability gap?

These episodes are not monetized or sponsored, so if you would like these episodes to continue, if you think these are worthwhile, then hit the like button and share the podcast.

For more information see:

The Department of Defense Law of War Manual, 2015

The Lawfare Blog: It’s Time to Designate the Wagner as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, June 30, 2022, https://www.lawfareblog.com/its-time-designate-wagner-group-foreign-terrorist-organization

Music:

Les Preludes: Liszt; Recorded by USMC Band (Public Domain)

Mecenaries: Per Killstofte/Machinasound (Licensed)

E61: War and Terrorism Jan 02, 2023

If there is one thing that pacifists and generals agree on, it is that war is terrible. The dictionary definition of terrible is “causing terror.” If war, by its very nature, causes terror, then what is the difference between war and terrorism? I explore that in this episode, leading up to the next episode, where I will apply this information to the war in Ukraine. That is the subject of the next few episodes of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare. If you think these podcasts are worth listening to, please hit like.

Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own analysis and opinion and does not represent the views of the Department of Defense or any organization I am or have been affiliated with.

E60: The Myth of Limited War Dec 21, 2022

What if I told you that neither Total War or Limited War reflect reality? Further that the West's concept of limited war only limits the ability of states to achieve the only acceptable goal of any war?

For further reading:

Stoker, Donald, Why America Loses Wars: Limited War and US Strategy from the Korean War to the present, ISBN978-1-009-22086-6

Summers, Harry, , On Strategy ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0891415637

E59: Conventional Warfare is NOT Dead Nov 20, 2022

With the current war in Ukraine, it may seem obvious that conventional war is still important. But less than a year ago, many prominent military experts said otherwise. Some writers and opinion leaders still maintain that the current conflict is an exception, an aberration, and focusing on conventional war, or traditional warfare does not prepare us for future conflict. They are wrong.

E58: Is Combat Aviation Still Relevant? Oct 24, 2022

Twitter and You Tube can present an inaccurate picture of modern warfare. In the previous Podcast, I described how the tank continues to be relevant on the modern battlefield, despite social media images. This same social media depicts Combat aviation of all varieties falling from the sky on a daily basis, without apparent battlefield effect. Col. Jayson Altieri, US Army Retired, and instructor at the US Air War College joins me for an open discussion on the use and misuse of combat aviation in modern warfare.

The Tank is NOT Dead, Long Live the Tank! Sep 02, 2022

Video clips show Russian tanks in Ukraine blowing up after being hit by various anti-tank guided missiles. Moscow has lost so many tanks that some reports say they are forced to pull obsolete models from reserve stocks or even museums. The conclusion in popular media is that the tank is dead, obsolete as a weapon of modern combat. I think that the tank is as important today as any time in history. Like all previous times in history, it is a matter of how it is used -- or misused.

Also please check out "No the Tank is Not Dead" by "The Chieftan: at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lI7T650RTT8

E56: The Law of War; I’m not dead yet! Jun 12, 2022

Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine disproves many recent predictions about the future of war. This includes the predictions about the death of the law of war. The perception of the legitimacy of war depends in large part on seemingly ancient notions of Jus Ad Bellum and Jus in Bello. The war in Ukraine shows that legitimacy, or loss of legitimacy, has serious consequences.

For more information on the material in this podcast see:

“The End of History”: https://www.c-span.org/video/?24282-1/the-end-history-man

“The Laws of War on Land”: https://ihl-databases.icrc.org/applic/ihl/ihl.nsf/Article.xsp?action=openDocument&documentId=B06FB334DC14CBD1C12563CD00515767

“Should the Laws of War Apply to Terrorists?” https://www.jstor.org/stable/25658249

“On the Nature of War”: Helmuth von Moltke: http://www.gwpda.org/1914m/moltke.html

Defense Department Law of War Manual: https://dod.defense.gov/Portals/1/Documents/pubs/DoD Law of War Manual - June 2015 Updated Dec 2016.pdf?ver=2016-12-13-172036-190

"Russia’s military is incompetent. That makes it more dangerous." https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2022/03/17/russia-military-failing-dangerous/

Col. Christopher T. Mayer, US Army Retired, is a former instructor of the US Army Command and General Staff College and the Naval War College, guest lecturer on national security at academic institutions in the United States and Europe, and developed operational and organizational concepts for future warfare. He is a veteran of combat operations in Iraq and peacekeeping operations in Africa and the Balkans.

E55 Other Roles for the Military Instrument of National Power May 17, 2022

The primary purpose of any nation’s military force is to fight and win its wars. However, the military instrument of national power does much more than that. Most of those things keep the nation from having to fight wars. US and NATO support to Ukraine provides examples of the non-conflict roles of the military instrument.

If you think this material is worthwhile, please hit the like button, leave a comment, or share it with someone.

For more information about the role of Mercenaries in war and non-conflict situations please listen to these podcasts in the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare:

Episode 2: Who are these Russian quasi-mercenaries? https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/who-are-these-russian-quasi-mercenaries/

Episode 3: The role of mercenaries in hybrid warfare

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/the-role-of-mercenaries-in-hybrid-warfare/

Episode 4: Why are Russian PMCs different from Western PMSCs?

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/why-are-russian-pmcs-different-from-western-pmscs-with-dr-jovana-ranito/

Episode 6: Meeting the Challenge of Russian Private Military Companies

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/meeting-the-challenge-of-russian-private-military-companies/

Episode 12: Mercenary: What is in a name?

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/e12-mercenary-whats-in-a-name/

Episode 19: The rise of Quasi-Mercenary Organizations

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/e19-the-rise-of-quasi-mercenary-organizations/

E54: The Military Element of National Power, Part 3 -- Mercenaries May 10, 2022

Since 2014, Moscow has used mercenaries in Ukraine, Syria, Africa, and other places to exert military power without accountability. Although these mercenaries, commonly referred to as the Wagner Group, never left Eastern Ukraine, they are now active again with the Russian invasion. Why? What is their value in a conventional war? What dangers do they present? That is the subject of this episode.

If you find this information useful, please his LIKE or send a comment!

For more information about the role of Mercenaries in war and non-conflict situations please listen to these podcasts in the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.

Episode 2: Who are these Russian quasi-mercenaries? https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/who-are-these-russian-quasi-mercenaries/

Episode 3: The role of mercenaries in hybrid warfare

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/the-role-of-mercenaries-in-hybrid-warfare/

Episode 4: Why are Russian PMCs different from Western PMSCs?

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/why-are-russian-pmcs-different-from-western-pmscs-with-dr-jovana-ranito/

Episode 6: Meeting the Challenge of Russian Private Military Companies

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/meeting-the-challenge-of-russian-private-military-companies/

Episode 12: Mercenary: What is in a name?

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/e12-mercenary-whats-in-a-name/

Episode 19: The rise of Quasi-Mercenary Organizations

https://mayhemxpc.podbean.com/e/e19-the-rise-of-quasi-mercenary-organizations/

E53 The Military Elelemt of Power Part 2 Russian Militias Apr 29, 2022

Russia's use of Militias in the ongoing war has been very different than Ukraine's. The way these militias and auxiliaries act as an element of a nation’s military power will reflect the goals, objectives, and strategic vision of the nation that is using them. The danger is that forces that do not fulfill the criteria of a legitimate belligerent under the law of war undermines disciplined and efficient use of military force and threaten the restoration of a just and lasting peace.

E52 The Military Element of Power, Part 1 Militias Apr 21, 2022

The military element of national power is not just regular armed forces fighting on the battlefield. This episode begins to look at the varied means and methods of using military power, once again drawing observations from the current war in Ukraine. I begin with the use of militias and mercenaries.

E51: Information Warfare Apr 14, 2022

We live in an information age. How can the use of information, in all its forms, be a decisive tool in warfare? I look at the war in Ukraine to describe how the West is being influenced by Information as a tool of national power.

E50: Economic Warfare Mar 02, 2022

If war is a continuation of political intercourse with the addition of other means, what are those other means? How do we apply them for success in war and operations short of war? What does that mean for Ukraine? This podcast begins to answer those questions by looking at Economic Warfare.

E49: Do we learn from history? Feb 24, 2022

In 1938 the Western powers allowed Nazi Germany to annex the border regions of Czechoslovakia and, a few months later, dismember the rest of that country. Some people say that this model is replaying itself today. Have we learned from history? Have others learned lessons we have not?

E48 The American Way of War w Col Jayson Altieri Feb 15, 2022

Initiative, Imagination, Independence. These principles seem more important than ever in today’s vague, ambiguous, complex, and uncertain strategic environment. But, has the United States gone in another direction? COL Jayson Altieri of the USAF Air War College joins me to discuss this.

E47:Great Commander Pt 3 - von Moltke and the General Staff Jan 18, 2022

What does a Prussian general, a product of the enlightenment, have in common with a Greek commander who studied under Aristotle? More important, how does that continue to affect warfare in the 21st century?

E46 Great Commanders Part 2: Alexander Jan 04, 2022

Can one man change warfare, or history? I asked colleagues for their recommendations. Everyone's list included the same name. Alexander of Macedon. His vision changed warfare and the world, with effects that continue to this day.

E45: Commanders Part 1 Nov 20, 2021

If war is a human endeavor, can the actions of one person, against all odds, change the course of a battle or a war? Times may bring out the man, but sometimes one person can change history.

E44: Cultural Warfare Nov 01, 2021

War is a human endeavor and, by its nature, a social activity. Success in war depends on understanding the enemy's cultures to identify strategic weakness and red-lines that must not be crossed.

E43: How to Lose a War Oct 09, 2021

In the previous episode I proposed that Tolstoy’s statement that all happy families are alike and that all unhappy families are unhappy in their own way, might also apply to success and failure in war. In that podcast, I asserted that that all successful wars are alike. Now I will explore the idea that every unsuccessful war is unsuccessful in its own way.

E42 All Successful Wars Are Alike Sep 06, 2021

Tolstoy's novel Anna Karenina begins: "All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way." Could this line from the author of “War and Peace” also apply to war? That is the topic of this episode of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.

E41: Mercenary Risk Management Aug 26, 2021

Prior episodes described what Quasi-mercenary forces are, what they do, how they get their support, and who controls them. The big question is what – if anything -- we can do about them? I am joined by Dr. Deborah Avant of the University of Denver, Dr. Sorcha McLeod of the UN Working Group on Mercenaries, and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, Mr. Gary Motsek

E40: Interlude Aug 15, 2021

Why does the United States seem to ignore the basic tenets of strategy in our military interventions? What does our abandoning Afghanistan mean for international security? I am interrupting the discussion on mercenaries to address this issue.

E39: On Mercenary Warfare Paragraph 5 -- Command and Control Jul 20, 2021

Who commands or controls modern mercenary activity? Who really calls the shots for the Wagner Group or other mercenary organizations? Accountability depends not just on knowing who, but being able to prove it.

E38: On Mercenary Warfare, Paragraph 4: Logistics Jul 08, 2021

It is said, "Tactics wins battles, logistics wins wars." This is just as true for mercenaries and regular armies. Studying mercenary logistics can identify potential areas where we can bring pressure on them.

E37: On Mercenary Warfare, Paragraph 3: Execution Jun 17, 2021

Moving from what mercenary-like organization are and where they operate, we need to know how today’s mercenary-like activities threaten peace and security in Africa, the Middle East, and even Europe? How do they threaten the vital interests of the United States, in particular, and Western interests in general? In other words, why should we care?

E36 On Mecernary Warfare Paragraph 2, The Mission Jun 06, 2021

Why do governments choose to use mercenaries rather than their own armed forces or those of partner national armies or international organizations? More important, why do some governments invite mercenaries into their countries? The answers may surprise you.

E35: On Mercenary Warfare, Paragraph 1 - The Situation May 31, 2021

In Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, new reports emerge of mercenary-like activity. Why do governments seek help from mercenaries? How can some governments and even media consider them a force for good? This episode begins a series on that subject.

E34: War in the East? May 16, 2021

The Chinese idea of unrestricted warfare orchestrates all elements of national power, with military power as the bass line, but only dominating as a last resort. If a shooting war happens, why, how, and where will it start?

E33: Cancelling History Apr 26, 2021

Current movements to cancel certain historical persons risks cancelling our history, leaving us without a map of our past and guidance for our future. We should not ignore the importance of historical persons' thoughts and achievements, nor the faults which made them human.

E32: Unrestricted Warfare Feb 22, 2021

Sun Tzu said: “If one party is at war with another, and the other party does not realize it is at war, the party who knows it is at war almost always has the advantage and usually wins.” Is the United States already at war with China, and we just don’t know it? Chinese military doctrine indicates that we are.

Holding PMSCs Accountable Jan 20, 2021

A lot has happened since the Nisour Square Tragedy to hold PMSCs accountable under the law. Doug Brooks and I discuss some of the initiatives of the past dozen years and what still needs to be done.

E30: Lupus Auribus Tenere Jan 04, 2021

The recent presidential pardon of four former Blackwater operatives is a true case of holding a wolf by the ears. The deaths resulting from the Nisour Square incident demand justice. The problem is using unjust means to do that.

E29: Napoleon's Corporal Dec 28, 2020

Armed forces may be designed and built from the top down, but combat effectiveness is a bottoms-up process. In this podcast, I interviewed four junior non-commissioned officers of different services and combat specialties, asking them what they think are the most serious challenges our armed forces face today. After all, they are the ones who will have to lead, fight and, win our nation’s battles.

Spacepower: the Theory Oct 14, 2020

The conclusion of the series on a theory for Spacepower. Col Altieri and Col Waring join me to apply lessons from other warfighting theories to the space domain.

E27 From AERO to SPACE Aug 31, 2020

What we can learn from Airpower Theory for a Spacepower Theory. A discussion with Col Jayson Altieri or the US Air War College

E26: From the Sea to the Stars May 31, 2020

The enduring attributes for Seapower dominance can provide insights for the Spacepower Domain. COL Jayson Altieri, US Army Retired and Instructor at the Air War College joins me to examine the distinct and essential characteristics of seapower and what lessons we can draw from that for understanding spacepower the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.

E25: Spacepower P3 From Landpower Dominance to Spacepower Theory May 20, 2020

This podcast steps down from high level military theory to practical application of what Landpower dominance looks like, and why it has been and will continue to be essential for military success. This provides a basis for thinking about the unique and essential role of Spacepower dominance.

E24 Spacepower Theory P2: The Theory of War May 04, 2020

To develop a theory of warfare for the spacepower domain we need to look at military theory as it already exists. Understanding the overall framework of war lets us understand how the Space domain is both distinct from land, sea, and air power domains and how the space domain is essential to achieving the ends of military theory.

E23: Towards a Theory of Spacepower Apr 18, 2020

The US Space Force is organized and new Spacewar doctrine will soon be published, but what is the overarching theory for the Space Domain of warfare? How might this differ from long-standing land, air and space power theory? This is an introduction to a multi-part discussion with some of the best people I know to discuss military theory.

E22: The Ancient Art of Modern Biological Warfare Apr 07, 2020

How long has biological warfare been with us? How effective has it been? What are its real dangers and how can we manage the risks? Reflecting the current challenge civilization faces right now, this podcast addresses the history and impact of biological warfare.

E21 Privatizing Peace Part 2 Mar 30, 2020

In this podcast continues the discussion with Doug Brooks, founder of the International Peace Operations Association, discussing the challenges that standards compliant companies face in post-conflict and fragile state markets and how to meet those challenges.

E20 Privatizing Peace Pt1 with Doug Brooks Mar 23, 2020

Along with Proxy Warfare, we also see the rise of proxy peace-fare. Contractors perform roles that many people see as proper to governments. Doug Books, founder of the International Peace Operations Association, discusses the role contractors perform in post-conflict and fragile States.

E19: The Rise of Quasi-Mercenary Organizations Mar 15, 2020

The emergence of Quasi-Mercenary Organizations challenges the concept of State monopoly of violence and the legitimacy of PMCS. Governments and other stakeholders need to work together to meet this threat. Originally intended for presentation to the UN Working Group on Mercenaries.

E18 Just War with Iran? with CH(BG) Pat Dolan Feb 06, 2020

With the proliferation of proxy wars, anti-terrorism operations, and mercenaries, can we still fulfill the criteria for justice in going to war and justice in the conduct of war? COL Mayer and BG Dolan discuss this question using the example of recent actions between the United States and Iran.

E17 Perpetual Peace Jan 18, 2020

The idea of Democratic Peace depends on two things, a republican democracy and an educated and active citizenry. This ideal drove US policy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and again a century later

E16: Can there be honor in War? Jan 10, 2020

The third principle of Jus in Bello, after Military Necessity and Humanity, is Honor. Is honor relevant in modern combat, or an archaic concept that died in the trenches of WW1? Col. Jayson Altieri, USA RET of the US Air War College joins Col. Mayer for the discussion.

E15: Military Necessity AND Humanity? Dec 23, 2019

Moving from justice in the act of going to war to just conduct in war. The need to balance Military Necessity and Humanity.

E14 Is Just War Possible with Brig Gen (Chap) Patrick Dolan Dec 12, 2019

Is Just War even possible in modern conflict? Big. Gen. (Chaplain) Patrick Dolan, retired Army Assistant Chief of Chaplains, discusses the possibilities.

E13: The Ancient Concept of Just War in Modern Conflict Dec 07, 2019

Can a war ever be "Just"? Is the ancient concept of Just War still important in contemporary conflicts? What the citizens of the republic should know when the nation decides to use military force.

E12 Mercenary: What's in a Name? Nov 21, 2019

Mercenary, PMSC, PSC, PMC? Is there a difference? Does it matter? The Russians, along with some academics and media sources say no. Those of us trying to promote responsibility and accountability in the use of force disagree.

Questions from Listeners with Dr. Deborah Avant and Doug Brooks Nov 13, 2019

Answers to questions from podcast listeners from Dr. Deborah Avant, University of Denver and author of "The Market for Force" and Mr. Doug Brooks, President Emeritus of the International Stability Operations Association. They respond to questions about PMSCs, their status in international law, and interaction with military forces. In short, they answer, "Why follow the rules?"

E10 The Berlin Wall, the Cold War, and Sun Tzu Nov 09, 2019

Thoughts on the 30th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall, the Cold War and Sun Tzu, and concerns that the lessons are forgotten

Clausewitz and the Kurds Oct 28, 2019

The recent decision of the U.S. President regarding U.S. military forces in Syria offers an opportunity look at how the enduring substance of war continues to apply to modern conflict. I am not questioning the policy decision. Military force is the servant of policy and policy should always drive the use of military force. The question whether the enduring nature of war was addressed in developing that policy, including the deployment and redeployment of U.S. military force in Syria. So far, it looks hopeful that it was considered. As citizens of the republic, we must be watchful to see that actions follow words.

The Natural Laws of War Oct 19, 2019

Only by understanding the nature of war can we learn the natural laws of war. Like other natural law, these are precepts or rules we can derive from observation and the use of reason. These natural laws of war may vary in application, but are applicable everywhere, at all times. The first rule is that, "Young men die." It is not a matter of choosing to follow them. They describe war as it is and always has been. History demonstrates that any success gained while ignoring any of these rules will be difficult and any victory will be temporary. Citizens of a republic should understand these fundamental natural laws of war and be on alert when anyone proposes to use military force.

Episode 7: What is War? Oct 10, 2019

This podcast introduces a discussion on the concept of war. What war is, rather than its appearances and forms. War is not just about fighting and killing. There is an unchanging nature and substance of war, beyond its appearances. Understanding the nature of war is the responsibility of all citizens so that they can make informed decisions about the use of force in their country's name. This really should have been episode 1 or 2, but current events kept getting in the way. For more information see my blog at blog.ctmayer.net

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