UNCLAS Read Board with CDR Salamander

Latest Episodes:

Episode 34: 28JAN2026 Jan 29, 2026

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Summary

In this episode, Sal discusses the evolving landscape of national security, focusing on the significant changes in global dynamics over the past year. He examines the roles of major players like China, Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, as well as the emerging trends in South America and India’s strategic position. Sal emphasizes the importance of unde…

Episode 32: 15JAN2026 Jan 08, 2026

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This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit cdrsalamander.substack.com

Summary

In this episode, the host discusses the recent military operations related to Venezuela, focusing on the successful takedown of sanctioned tankers and the implications for U.S. naval strategy. The conversation also shifts to the defense budget under the Trump administration, exploring the need for increased military spending in light of national …

Episode 30: 05DEC2025 Dec 04, 2025

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Summary

In this episode, Sal discusses various pressing topics including the ongoing drug war, military operations, the situation in Ukraine, and the recent controversy surrounding the Pentagon press pool. He expresses gratitude to his subscribers and reflects on the complexities of military decisions, the implications of the war in Ukraine, and the impo…

Episode 29: 19NOV2025 Nov 20, 2025

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This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit cdrsalamander.substack.com

Summary

In this episode, Sal discusses various pressing global issues, including the evolving role of Saudi Arabia, the ongoing drug cartel crisis in the Americas, and the ethical responsibilities of military personnel in politics. He also addresses the challenges within the military-industrial complex, a recent surge in aircraft mishaps, and the importa…

Episode 28: 05NOV2025 Nov 06, 2025

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This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit cdrsalamander.substack.com

Summary

In this episode, the host reflects on personal experiences growing up in Florida’s East Coast during the Space Age, discusses the current state of naval ships, and addresses geopolitical concerns in Venezuela and Nigeria. The conversation also touches on the situation in Sudan and the rise of South Korea in military production, concluding with re…

Episode 27: 08OCT25 Oct 09, 2025

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* Ian Ellis’s outline of Caribbean U.S. Navy deployment

* The Melting Point: High Command and War in the 21st Century, by Kenneth F. McKenzie

Summary

In this conversation, Sal discusses various geopolitical issues, including a potential peace deal in Israel and Gaza, the implications of Iran’s weakened position, reflections on General McKenzie’s book…

Episode 26: 24SEP25 Sep 25, 2025

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* Trump says he now thinks Ukraine can win back all territory taken by Russia

* Operation Granby and stockpiles

Summary

In this episode, the host discusses various pressing national security issues, including the implications of air-launched cruise missiles, the ongoing Gaza conflict, and the historical context of political violence. The conversation…

Episode 25: 20AUG2025 Aug 21, 2025

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* Gaza COA Decision Brief, 11 October, 2023

* We're Burning Another Amphib: this time the USS New Orleans (LPD 18)

* The Melting Point: High Command and War in the 21st Century,

by Kenneth F. McKenzie

* Longstreet: The Confederate General Who Defied the South Hardcover, by Elizabeth Varon (Author)

Summary

In this episode, Sal discusses various pressing top…

Episode 24: 23JUL2025 Jul 24, 2025

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* Reforming the promotion system in DOD

* Australian Missile Canister Loading Equipment (MCLE)

* USNS Oscar V. Peterson (T‑AO 206)

Summary

In this episode of the Commander Salamander UNCLAS Read Board Podcast, the host discusses various topics related to national security, military developments, and the challenges faced by the Navy. Key themes include t…

Episode 23: 09JUL2025 Jul 10, 2025

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* Coast Guard Petty Officer Scott Ruskan

* Modern Chinese Maritime Forces, 01JUL2025 Edition.

* Frontline states say “bye” to the Ottawa Convention on Mines.

* King's Navy: Fleet Admiral Ernest J. King and the Rise of American Sea Power, 1897–1947

* Heritage DataViz on US Fleet promises v. PLAN Execution

* MK-58 torpedo

Summary

In this episode, the host discusse…