Mark and I are back from most of May taking care of business!Time for a MIDRATS!

Show Links

• Pentagon chief tells Asian allies: Raise defence spending to 5% of GDP like Europe
• Tom Shugart post on PRC ship in Norfolk, from APR 2024
• 1980s Strategic Homeporting Initiative
• Claude Berube on OSS developing deep strike drone boats against Japanese bridges and tunnels in WW2
• Operation Pigeon
• Bat bombs
• The Atlantic on Who Killed America’s Shipbuilding Industry?
• Korean Shipyard Modernization
• Navy Secretary "Shocked and Dismayed" at Condition of Base Housing on Guam

Summary

In this episode, Sal and Mark discuss the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine War, focusing on Ukraine's innovative strategies and the implications for modern warfare. They explore the role of AI in military operations, the importance of strategic home porting, and the vulnerabilities in military infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the future of U.S. defense spending and the need to revitalize America's shipbuilding industry.Takeaways

• The Ukraine conflict has highlighted innovative military strategies.
• AI is becoming increasingly integrated into modern warfare.
• Strategic home porting is essential for national security.
• Military infrastructure vulnerabilities need urgent attention.
• Dispersing military assets can reduce risk in conflict scenarios.
• Revitalizing shipbuilding is crucial for military readiness.
• Simplifying the acquisition process can enhance military capabilities.
• Caring for military personnel is a priority for effective defense.
• Lessons from Ukraine can inform future military strategies.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction and Overview of Current Events
02:11: Analysis of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
06:35: Technological Advancements in Warfare
12:18: Strategic Homeporting and Military Vulnerabilities
18:42: Lessons from Historical Military Engagements
24:51: Infrastructure and Operational Challenges
32:09: Rebuilding Naval Bases and Infrastructure
34:39: Hardening National Defense and Infrastructure
36:08: Geopolitical Concerns: China and Russia
40:18: Shipbuilding Industry Challenges and Innovations
46:13: Defense Spending and Budget Allocation
50:36: Leadership and Accountability in Defense Programs
53:32: The Future of Warfare and Military Strategy