Deterrence Matters

In this "Best of" episode, Adam, Curtis, and Jim discuss the recent revelation by CIA and MI6 intel leaders that Putin almost deployed nuclear weapons in the Ukraine conflict in 2022. The hosts discuss the likely targets and effects of such a scenario, as well as the strategic motivations behind it. They also touch on the science of nuclear weapons and the misconceptions surrounding their low-yield use.

Originally recorded: September 11,2024, S02 E91

Adam, Curtis, and Jim discuss Matt Loh's article in Business Insider titled "The nuclear weapons era is making a comeback, and experts say we're all not paying attention." The guys discuss this resurgence of nuclear weapons as a hot topic and the impact the changing strategic environment is making on deterrence and disarmament thinkers alike.

https://www.businessinsider.com/nuclear-weapons-era-comeback-china-us-russia-experts-2024-8

Originally Released: September 4, 2024

In this episode, Adam, Curtis, and Jim discuss the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in nuclear command and control systems, referencing a recent WOTR article that suggests using a risk assessment model similar to that in civilian nuclear power. They examine the challenges of integrating AI into decision-making, the associated human factors, and the potential benefits and risks for nuclear deterrence. The conversation also touches on U.S.-China dynamics concerning AI in nuclear decisions and emphasizes the need for informed discussions about AI technologies.

Disclaimer: The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not reflect the views of any affiliations they may have.

Adam, Curtis, and Jim discuss a recent article by Madelyn Creedon and Frank Miller that highlights the urgent need for nuclear modernization and suggests bypassing the lengthy process of a 2025 NPR to maintain progress. The conversation explores the advantages and disadvantages of a new NPR and its contribution to timely deterrence strategies, government policies, and its influence on corporate responsiveness within the defense sector.

Adam, Curtis, and Jim discuss the implications of Russia's updated nuclear doctrine in light of White House approval to let Ukraine launch US-made ATACMS into Russia and the strategic messaging surrounding the Ukraine conflict.

In this "Best Of" episode which originally aired on October 9th, 2024, Adam, Curtis, and Jim are joined by Jonathan Cefalu, the founder of Preamble. Mr. Cefalu shares insights on enhancing artificial intelligence (AI) trust, specifically in nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) systems.

https://warontherocks.com/2023/04/ai-at-war/

Adam and Curtis discuss possible nuclear deterrence policy under the Trump administration, the potential for increased nuclear participation from allies, and his realist approach to adversaries.

Adam, Curtis, and Jim discuss an article advocating for a minimalist approach to nuclear deterrence as a means of cost savings. The hosts discuss the concept of minimum deterrence in nuclear strategy and address misconceptions about the U.S. nuclear arsenal's effectiveness under a minimalist strategy.

Curtis hosts former intelligence officer Jim Klingmeyer as they discuss the recent deployment of North Korean troops to Ukraine, the potential for an AI arms race in national security, and the latest DIA intel report.

In this episode, Adam, Curtis, and Jim discuss the concept of sole authority in nuclear weapons launch decisions, addressing misconceptions and the complexities of the decision-making process. They emphasize the importance of command and control, historical context, and the role of the president while also examining recent legislative proposals that could impact the timeliness of nuclear launch authority.

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