Today we’re going to take a friend’s Substack post and turn it into one of the best podcast hours you’ll have this summer…and maybe give you some ideas about books you need to take with you for the July 4th weekend.

From Claude’s May 23rd Substack:
From the gun decks of HMS Indefatigable to the command chair of a futuristic starship, the portrayal of naval officers in fiction has evolved alongside society's changing views of leadership, warfare, and heroism. The archetype of the naval officer has been shaped not only by historical precedent but also by the imaginative needs of authors responding to their times.

Show Links:

• The Fictional Officer Corps: From Hornblower to Stark, by Claude Berube
• The Connor Stark novels and other books, by Claude Berube
• The Hornblower Series, by C. S. Forester
• Aubrey/Maturin Novels, by Patrick O'Brian
• The Caine Mutiny, by Herman Wouk
• Star Trek: The Original Series
• Run Silent, Run Deep, by Edward L. Beach
• Honor Harrington Series, by David Weber
• The Winds of War, by Herman Wouk
• Mister Roberts, by Thomas Heggen
• Wicked, by Gregory Maguire
• Star Wars’ Boba Fett
• P.T. Deuterman
• Mary Celeste

Summary

In this episode of Midrats, Sal, Mark, and Claude Berube discuss the evolution of naval fiction and its impact on leadership. They explore how naval characters in literature reflect societal changes and the complexities of leadership in both historical and modern contexts. The conversation delves into moral dilemmas faced by leaders, the significance of character development, and the challenges of internal rivalries within naval settings. Additionally, they touch on the importance of historical accuracy in fiction and the future of naval literature in a rapidly changing world.

Takeaways

• Fiction serves as a unique tool for exploring leadership.
• Naval characters in literature evolve with societal changes.
• Moral dilemmas are central to understanding leadership.
• Internal rivalries can challenge leadership effectiveness.
• Historical accuracy enhances the depth of naval stories.
• The readership among young people is declining.
• Stories about the human condition resonate deeply with readers.
• The future of naval literature faces uncertainties.
• Understanding the past is essential for shaping future narratives.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to the Conversation
02:00: The Evolution of Naval Fiction
04:03: Character Development in Naval Literature
13:55: Leadership and Command in Fiction
20:36: Moral Dilemmas in Naval Leadership
25:40: The Future of Naval Literature
28:46: The Evolution of Heroism at Sea
31:06: Leadership Dynamics in Fiction and Reality
35:27: Character Studies in Leadership
41:02: Navigating Internal Rivalries
46:24: The Changing Landscape of Naval Literature

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

The People’s Republic of China continues to expand its already well-established contestation of ownership, access, and control of ports throughout the world.

They have done this in parallel with building the world’s largest navy and a diverse set of military capabilities clearly designed with one purpose—defeating the U.S. military in the Indo-Pacific.

Returning to Midrats to discuss this and related topics is be T. X. Hammes.

T.X. is a distinguished research fellow at the Center for Strategic Research, National Defense University. He served 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Show Links

• China’s exploitation of overseas ports and bases
• Kratos XQ-58 Valkyrie
• Ares anti-ship cruise missile
• Typhon
• MWI Podcast: The Future Battlefield, from Europe to the Indo-Pacific
• The Eastern Front

Summary

In this conversation, Sal, Mark, and T.X. Hammes discuss the implications of China's global expansion, particularly its military strategy and naval capabilities. They explore how China is leveraging its control over ports and logistics to challenge U.S. dominance in the Indo-Pacific. The discussion also delves into operational planning assumptions for potential conflict with China, the historical context of long wars, and the challenges facing U.S. military readiness. Innovative solutions for naval warfare, the importance of economic exhaustion and sea control, and the role of mines in modern warfare are also examined. The conversation concludes with thoughts on the future of military technology and the potential for leveraging civilian resources in military operations.

Takeaways

• China's global expansion poses significant challenges to U.S. interests.
• The U.S. Navy must adapt to China's growing naval capabilities.
• China's unconventional use of ports can disrupt global trade.
• Long wars are historically common between healthy powers.
• U.S. military readiness is not sufficient for a prolonged conflict.
• Innovative solutions like missile barges could enhance naval warfare.
• Economic exhaustion is a critical factor in long-term conflicts.
• Mines could play a crucial role in modern naval strategy.
• The focus should shift from platforms to payloads in military planning.
• Leveraging civilian resources can enhance military capabilities.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to China's Global Expansion
02:36: China's Naval Capabilities and Strategic Ports
10:42: Planning Assumptions for Potential Conflict
21:29: Control of the Sea and Economic Exhaustion
30:26: Utilizing Merchant Ships in Warfare
33:27: Investing in Future Military Technologies
35:44: Innovative Solutions for Pacific Defense
40:11: The Role of Unmanned Systems in Modern Warfare
42:57: Lessons from the Russo-Ukrainian War
44:59: Adapting Combined Arms for Modern Conflicts
48:44: The Importance of Flexibility in Naval Operations
53:10: Building a Resilient Merchant Fleet
55:57: Exploring New Strategies for Warfare
01:00:50: Future Directions in Military Strategy

With each new administration, there is opportunity for change and reform. In the new Trump Administration, reform isn’t seen as a secondary effect of a leadership change but as a requirement.What reform options should the new Pentagon leadership explore under the Trump Administration?

Joining us to discuss this and related topics is Gary Anderson, Colonel, USMC (Ret.). 

A starting point for our conversation will be his recent article in The American Spectator, Real Military Reform Begins: Will Pete Hegseth be able to reverse our military’s decline.

Gary retired as the chief of staff of the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab. He served as a special adviser to the deputy secretary of defense. He is an adjunct professor at George Washington University.

Summary

In this episode, Sal and Mark engage with Gary Anderson to discuss the current state of America's military, focusing on the need for reform and the implications of the Goldwater-Nichols Act. They explore the challenges facing the Marine Corps and Navy, the importance of revitalizing the defense industrial base, and the recent uptick in military morale and recruitment. The conversation also critiques the Force Design 2030 initiative and emphasizes the need for a more effective military education system and logistics support.

Takeaways

• America's military has been adrift for some time.
• The rot in military effectiveness goes back decades.
• The Goldwater-Nichols Act has had unintended consequences.
• Careerism and ticket-punching are detrimental to military readiness.
• Morale among military personnel is currently high.
• The defense industrial base needs revitalization to keep up with adversaries.
• Military education has shifted focus away from essential warfighting skills.
• Logistics has been neglected in recent military operations.
• War games should not be used to validate military concepts without scrutiny.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to Military Reform and Change
02:35: The State of America's Military
10:42: Challenges in Military Education and Careerism
18:36: The Need for Honest Feedback in Military Leadership
26:16: Revitalizing the Defense Industrial Base
29:15: Addressing the Crisis in Submarine Maintenance
32:12: Revitalizing the Fleet: Innovative Solutions for Shipbuilding
36:18: The Drone Dilemma: Quality vs. Quantity in Warfare
41:04: Logistics in Modern Warfare: Lessons from the Past
45:17: Morale in the Military: A Shift in Attitude
51:15: Leadership Changes: Navigating New Directions
54:00: Accountability in Military Decisions: The Need for Integrity
58:44: War Games and Military Strategy: The Importance of Honest Analysis

Many frustrated by the perceived lack of understanding of our nation’s maritime heritage requirements want new leaders with fresh ideas, unburdened by legacy entanglements. It is hoped that a younger cohort with military experience, preferably naval, in the House of Representatives and the Senate who bring to the job an additional background in business and industry will emerge to promote constructive change.

Today’s guest fits the bill perfectly: the new Senator from Montana, Senator Tim Sheehy.

Tim Sheehy is a father, husband, combat veteran, patriot, and an entrepreneur. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy class of 2008 with a B.S. in History, Tim completed several deployments and hundreds of missions as a US Navy SEAL Officer and Team Leader, deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, South America, and the Pacific region. Tim was honored to serve alongside many American heroes and was involved in dozens of engagements with enemy forces, earning him multiple combat decorations. Additionally, Tim completed a joint tour with Army Special Operations forces where he was privileged to complete US Army Ranger School and serve alongside the 5th Special Forces Group, 75th Ranger Regiment and other units within US Army Special Operations Command.

Tim completed his active duty service as a mini submarine pilot and navigator specializing in sensitive undersea operations. After his active duty service, Tim fulfilled reserve duty as a recruiter and assessor for future naval officers. Tim was honorably discharged from the Naval Reserve in 2019.In 2014, Tim founded Belgrade-based Bridger Aerospace with all of his savings and an all-veteran team. Under his leadership, Bridger Aerospace and its sister company, Ascent Vision Technologies experienced rapid growth and created hundreds of Montana jobs. Ascent Vision Technologies was acquired by CACI in 2020, and Bridger Aerospace went public on the NASDAQ in 2023.

Tim sits on the Senate Armed Services, Veterans’ Affairs, and Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.

Summary

In this conversation, Senator Tim Sheehy discusses his journey from Naval Academy graduate to U.S. Senator, emphasizing the need for a new generation of leaders in the maritime domain. He highlights the importance of revitalizing the Navy, addressing challenges in shipbuilding, and fostering bipartisan support for maritime strength. The discussion also touches on the need for innovation in naval strategy and acquisition processes, advocating for a shift in mindset towards risk-taking and adaptability in the face of modern challenges.

Show Links

• Operation Red Wings
• Six Frigates
• The Fall of Kabul

Takeaways

• Tim shares his journey from the Naval Academy to the Senate.
• The importance of revitalizing the Navy is highlighted.
• Challenges in shipbuilding and acquisition processes are discussed.
• Bipartisan support for maritime strength is crucial.
• Innovation in naval strategy is necessary for future readiness.
• Quantity in naval assets is as important as quality.
• A new shipbuilding paradigm is needed to meet modern demands.
• Risk-taking should be encouraged in military leadership.
• The Navy's historical context is essential for understanding current challenges.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to Maritime Challenges and New Perspectives
12:47: Senator Tim Sheehy's Journey: From Navy to Politics
18:44: Revitalizing the Navy: Challenges and Opportunities
24:37: Acquisition Paradigms and the Future of Naval Strategy

Returning for the full hour will be Dr. Sebastian Bruns.

Sebastian is a seapower expert and maritime strategist. His current project as Senior Researcher at the Institute for Security Policy Kiel University (ISPK) is “NATO Maritime Strategies and Naval Operations since 1985”, a multi-year effort to explore the Alliance’s maritime and naval roles between the late Cold War and today. Sebastian is the founder of the Kiel International Seapower Symposium (KISS), the Baltic Sea Strategy Forum (BSSF), the “Dreizack” young voices in maritime research workshop, and the ISPK Seapower publication series (NOMOS). From 2021-2022, Dr. Bruns served as the inaugural John McCain-Fulbright Distinguished Visiting Professor at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, teaching Baltic Sea security and U.S. naval strategy to Midshipmen at the Political Science Department. He is a former Congressional staffer (then-Rep. Todd Young, IN-09), a fellow at the Royal Swedish Society of Naval Sciences, and a Non-Resident Fellow at the Royal Navy Strategic Studies Centre.

Showlinks

• How much do Nato members spend on defense?
• Kiel Seapower.
• West-up map of the Baltic.
• Kaliningrad.
• German-Norwegian submarine program.

Summary

In this episode, Sal and Mark welcome Dr. Sebastian Bruhn to discuss the evolving security landscape in the Baltic Sea region, particularly in light of recent Russian activities. They explore NATO's response, the historical context of the Baltic, and the implications of the Kaliningrad exclave. The conversation also touches on the concept of the 'NATO lake', the challenges of gray zone tactics, and the future of naval cooperation and shipbuilding partnerships within NATO.

Takeaways

• The Baltic Sea is experiencing increased military activity due to Russian threats.
• Kaliningrad's strategic position poses significant risks to NATO operations.
• The concept of the 'NATO lake' may lead to complacency in security measures.
• Gray zone tactics are complicating maritime security in the Baltic.
• NATO spending is increasing, particularly among Baltic nations.
• Germany's naval capabilities are being modernized but remain limited.
• Coast Guards are playing a crucial role in detaining shadow fleet vessels.
• Transatlantic shipbuilding partnerships are becoming more important.
• Historical context is vital for understanding current Baltic security dynamics.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to NATO's Maritime North
03:40: The Baltic Sea: A Strategic Overview
10:04: Historical Context and Current Threats
18:38: Kaliningrad: A Geopolitical Challenge
21:27: Russian Military Capabilities in the Baltic
29:00: Gray Zone Tactics and Hybrid Warfare
29:27: Historical Context of Naval Warfare
31:40: NATO Spending and Defense Strategies
39:17: The Role of Coast Guards in Maritime Security
44:40: Bureaucracy and Naval Operations
48:03: International Collaboration in Shipbuilding
53:15: Maritime Domain Awareness and NATO's Role

Summary

Sal and Mark delve into the current state of the U.S. Navy, discussing the size and capabilities of the fleet, the challenges of operating as a two-ocean Navy, and the potential for utilizing alternative naval assets such as offshore supply vessels. They explore the ongoing debate between manned and unmanned aircraft. Discussed some of the lessons on how to turn around a military quickly using the transition from the 1970s malaise, to the Reagan Era victory in the Cold War. The discussion also touches on military leadership, morale, and the strategic importance of aircraft carriers in contemporary military operations.

Show Links

• "Crash Fleet: An Emergency Shipbuilding Program”, by Lieutenant Commander Brian Adornato, USNR.
• German army struggles to get Gen Z recruits ‘ready for war’, by Laura Pitel.

Takeaways

• The U.S. Navy's fleet size is often overestimated.
• The Navy operates as a two-ocean force, complicating logistics.
• Alternative naval assets could enhance defense capabilities.
• The future of naval warfare will involve a mix of manned and unmanned systems.
• Aircraft carriers remain a cornerstone of naval power.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction and Overview of the Fleet Discussion
01:28: Analyzing the Current Size of the Navy
05:40: Challenges of a Two-Ocean Navy
07:48: Exploring Alternative Naval Platforms
11:58: Possible Role of Offshore Supply Vessels
14:47: Historical Context and Lessons Learned
18:20: Rethinking Naval Strategy and Resources
21:22: Utilizing Reserve Forces Effectively
25:02: Future of Aircraft Carriers and Naval Aviation
29:59: The Future of Manned vs. Unmanned Aircraft
34:38: Military Resource Allocation and Strategy
39:35: Generational Perspectives on Military Service in the post Vietnam recovery
44:39: Leadership and Military Morale

The origin story of the United States of America begins, in no small part, with maritime trade issues. Most of the declared and many of the undeclared, wars our nation has fought can be traced to the safety of our maritime commerce and unfettered access to the open seas.

Look at any map, and you’ll see we have oceans to the east and west of us, between our nation and its markets, allies, and competitors on the world stage.Today we’re going to cast a wide net on that world view with returning guest, Ross Kennedy.

Ross is a logistics and trade expert who has worked at the intersection of global trade, supply chains, and national security for two decades in support of United States national interests and private-sector clients.

Summary

This conversation delves into the intricate relationship between maritime trade, national security, and the evolving policies under the new administration. Ross Kennedy, a logistics and trade expert, discusses the historical context of maritime commerce in the U.S., the challenges of reindustrialization, and the need for a coordinated approach among various stakeholders in the maritime sector. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of investing in domestic shipbuilding capabilities, addressing supply chain issues, and recognizing strategic choke points in global trade. Kennedy advocates for innovative funding mechanisms and a holistic strategy to revitalize the maritime industry and ensure national security.

Takeaways

• The U.S. maritime industry is crucial for national security.
• 90% of global trade is conducted via maritime routes.
• A coordinated approach among stakeholders is essential.
• Reindustrialization requires long-term planning and investment.
• Funding mechanisms must support small businesses in the maritime sector.
• Disused shipyards can be revitalized for modern needs.
• Strategic choke points are vital for U.S. interests.
• Investing in domestic capabilities is a priority.
• Healthy debate is necessary for effective policy-making.
• The Arctic route poses significant geopolitical challenges.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to Maritime Trade and National Security
02:46: The Impact of the New Administration on Maritime Policies
08:11: The Role of Stakeholders in Shipbuilding
13:58: Challenges in Maritime Infrastructure and Supply Chains
20:25: Innovative Approaches to Shipbuilding and Economic Zones
25:26: The Future of Maritime Commerce and Procurement Reform
27:16: Decoupling Funding from National Security
29:18: Investing in Domestic Capabilities
31:51: Reimagining Maritime Logistics
35:05: Reviving Disused Shipyards
38:30: Strategic Maritime Infrastructure
43:44: Choke Points and Global Trade
50:27: Closing Thoughts

Having trouble keeping up with all the developments in the national security realm over the last two months?

Well, let not your heart be troubled, Sal & Mark are here for you this week with the ever-popular Midrats Melee format!

No guest this week for the podcast, just your two humble hosts, solving the world’s problems in 60-minutes.

Show Links

• Rear Admiral William Daly, USN OPNAV N96 at Surface Navy Association’s annual symposium: quotes can be found at link 1 and link 2.
• TRANSCOM’s purchase of used cargo ships.
• Substack on medium USV.
• Trump’s Gunboats, The National Interest, December 2016, by Claude Berube, and Mark Tempest.
• Substack on The Ship’s Act, December 2024.

Summary

In this episode of MidRats, Sal and Mark discuss the current state of naval infrastructure and the bipartisan Ships Act aimed at revitalizing shipbuilding in the U.S. They explore leadership changes within the Navy, the importance of unmanned vessels, and the potential for optimism in naval operations. The conversation also touches on geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict and North Korea's military developments, emphasizing the need for a robust maritime strategy.

Takeaways

• The Ships Act has bipartisan support and aims to enhance naval infrastructure.
• Leadership changes in the executive and legislative branchs could positively impact shipbuilding efforts.
• There is optimism regarding the revitalization of the U.S. maritime industry.
• Unmanned vessels are seen as a crucial component of future naval strategy.
• Admiral Daly advocates for affordable and practical designs.
• The maritime industry can provide significant economic benefits across the U.S.
• The U.S. must adapt to lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict.
• The importance of recapturing intellectual capital from former military personnel.

Sound Bites

• "It's an exciting thing to see."
• "We need hulls in the water."
• "We need to keep the money flowing."

Chapters

00:00: Introduction
01:44: The Ships Act: A Bipartisan Initiative
09:11: Challenges in Shipbuilding and Maintenance
12:45: Historical Context: Lessons from WWII
16:38: The Need for New Vessels and Innovation
20:28: Admiral Daly's Vision for Unmanned Vessels
23:56: Utilizing Naval Reserves for Unmanned Operations
28:03: Conclusion and Future Directions
30:01: Navigating Military Transitions
32:57: Optimism in Maritime Strategy
36:49: Challenges in Global Security
39:05: The Syrian Crisis and Its Implications
45:30: North Korea's Military Developments
52:59: Lessons from the Ukraine Conflict

A firm and lasting peace treaty, a ceasefire, in or out of NATO, in or out of the EU, European or international peacekeeping forces, an unending slog, or Russian tanks in downtown Kyiv?

What are the realistic…and unrealistic…options for Ukraine as they enter the 4th year of the Russo-Ukrainian War of 2022?Is the best path for Ukrainian security instead a new security architecture based on Ukrainian power itself?

How do you create a framework that could produce a realistic peace, while giving Ukraine a deterrence from future conflict?

Using her recent article in Foreign Affairs, Ukraine Must Guarantee Its Own Security, as a kicking off point for our conversation on these and related topics returning to Midrats will be Emma Ashford.

Emma is a senior fellow with the Reimagining US Grand Strategy program at the Stimson Center, and the author of First Among Equals: U.S. Foreign Policy for a Multipolar World, forthcoming from Yale University Press.

Showlink 

• Ukraine Must Guarantee Its Own Security

Summary

In this conversation, Sal, Mark, and Emma Ashford delve into the complexities of the Ukraine conflict, discussing historical agreements like the Budapest Memorandum, the implications of NATO membership, and the current geopolitical landscape. They explore the challenges of European defense strategies, the lessons from Finland's historical context, and the potential pathways to peace negotiations. The discussion emphasizes the need for Ukraine to build its own security capabilities while navigating the intricate dynamics of international relations.

Takeaways

• The Budapest Memorandum's implications are still relevant today.
• NATO membership remains a contentious issue for Ukraine.
• European states have divergent threat perceptions affecting defense strategies.
• The concept of 'Bluff and Pray' highlights European defense challenges.
• Lessons from Finland's Winter War can inform Ukraine's strategy.
• Ukraine must focus on internal capabilities for security.
• The US presence in Europe influences European defense initiatives.
• Negotiating peace involves complex territorial and sovereignty questions.
• European defense production can align with Ukraine's needs.
• The need for a unified European defense strategy is critical.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction and Context of the Ukraine Conflict
03:59: The Budapest Memorandum and Its Implications
06:41: NATO's Role and European Security Dynamics
11:55: European Military Capabilities and Collective Action Problems
18:25: Bluff and Pray: The Dilemma of European Deterrence
20:52: The Risks of European Military Engagement in Ukraine
28:10: NATO's Role in Ukraine's Security
32:45: Ukraine's Self-Defense and Historical Parallels
37:39: Models of Neutrality and Defense
40:20: European Defense Production and Cooperation
46:49: US Withdrawal Scenarios and European Responsibility
51:19: Negotiating Peace: Territory, Arms, and Finance