NucleCast

In this episode of NucleCast, Zak Kallenborn discusses the implications of AI legislation, particularly California's SB 1047, and its intersection with national security and weapons proliferation. He explores the potential risks of AI in biological research and the challenges of regulating such technologies. The conversation shifts to the evolving role of AI in drone warfare, including the use of autonomous drones in combat and their potential impact on nuclear weapons monitoring.

Zachary is an Adjunct Fellow (Non-resident) Strategic Technologies Program, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) as well as a Policy Fellow at the Center for Security Policy Studies, George Mason University Schar School of Policy and Government. He has published over 50 articles on autonomous weapons, weapons of mass destruction, and apocalyptic terrorism in a wide range of peer-reviewed, wonky, and popular outlets, including the Brookings Institution, Foreign Policy, Slate, Terrorism and Political Violence, and Parameters. Journalists have written about and shared that research in the New York Times, NPR, Forbes, the New Scientist, WIRED, and the BBC, among dozens of others in dozens of languages.

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In this episode of NucleCast, host Jim Howe interviews General Robin Rand, a recently retired Air Force general with a remarkable 40-year career. The conversation covers General Rand's early influences, his journey through flight training, and his various global assignments during pivotal moments in history, including the Cold War and the aftermath of 9/11. The discussion also delves into his leadership roles, particularly in the context of the Air Force's evolving focus on nuclear deterrence and the establishment of the Air Force Global Strike Command. General Rand shares insights on the importance of strategic deterrence and the dedication of the men and women serving in the Air Force.

General (Ret) Robin Rand is the Executive Director of the Oklahoma Aerospace & Defense Innovation Institute (OADII). In this role, he is the lead executive for the University of Oklahoma’s institute that concentrates on the four national defense strategic research areas of international security policy, modernization and sustainment resilience, cyberspace and information dominance, and spectrum dominance.

General (Ret) Rand served for over 40 years on active duty in the United States Air Force, including six overseas assignments, multiple flying assignments and duty as an air liaison officer with the U.S. Army, studies at the Naval War College, Pentagon staff assignments as a policy planner on the Joint staff, principle director for Middle East policy for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and Director Legislative Liaison for the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, and eight different command tours. His last Air Force position was Commander, Air Force Global Strike Command, and Commander, Air Forces Strategic-Air, U.S. Strategic Command where he was responsible for the land and air legs of the Nation’s nuclear triad. He is a command pilot with over 5,100 flying hours, predominately in the F-16, including more than 480 combat hours.

After retiring from the Air Force in Sep 2018, he served as Chief Executive Officer for the Gary Sinise Foundation, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings, Board of Directors member for Top Aces Corporation and the Air and Space Forces Association, trustee member for the United States Air Force Academy Falcon Foundation, LEONID board of advisors member, strategic advisor in government relations and public policy for Baker Donelson Law Firm, adjunct contract professor and senior mentor for United States Air Force, and senior consultant for several defense-related organizations.

General (Ret) Rand has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aviation Science from the United States Air Force Academy; Master of Science Degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and Master of Arts Degree in National Security Policy from the Naval War College.

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In this episode of NucleCast, Adam Lowther and Bob Peters discuss the implications of the October 7th anniversary, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Israel and the broader Middle East. They explore the failures of deterrence leading up to the attack, the complexities of Iran's nuclear ambitions, and the evolving dynamics between Israel and its Arab neighbors. The conversation also delves into the historical context of the Palestinian issue.

Robert Peters is a Research Fellow for Nuclear Deterrence and Missile Defense in The Heritage Foundation’s Allison Center for National Security. Prior to joining Heritage, Peters served as the lead strategist at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, where he oversaw the office that developed the Agency’s five-year strategy, conducted the Agency’s research and tabletop exercise program, and executed Agency-level program evaluations. Leading a team of forty-two people, Peters revamped the research function within the Agency and oversaw the Department of Defense’s Track 1.5 and Track 2 strategic dialogues with allies and partners.

For many years, Peters served as a Senior Research Fellow at National Defense University’s Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction, where he focused on nuclear deterrence issues, countering weapons of mass destruction, and counterproliferation.

In the first Obama Administration, Peters served as the Special Advisor for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, where he worked on the New START nuclear arms control treaty, the 2010 Nuclear Posture Review, and the 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review.

In addition, Peters held positions at Northrop Grumman and the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies.

A graduate of Miami University and Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, Peters has lectured at National War College, Missouri State University, Army War College, and the United States Naval Academy

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of October 7th

03:02 Deterrence Failures and the Israeli Response

05:59 Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Regional Dynamics

08:45 The Future of Israel and Iran Relations

11:49 The Role of Arab Nations and Regional Politics

14:47 The Palestinian Perspective and Historical Context

18:03 Bob's Wishes for Peace and Resolution

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In this episode of NucleCast, Adam Lowther and Bob Peters discuss the implications of the October 7th anniversary, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Israel and the broader Middle East. They explore the failures of deterrence leading up to the attack, the complexities of Iran's nuclear ambitions, and the evolving dynamics between Israel and its Arab neighbors. The conversation also delves into the historical context of the Palestinian issue.

Robert Peters is a Research Fellow for Nuclear Deterrence and Missile Defense in The Heritage Foundation’s Allison Center for National Security. Prior to joining Heritage, Peters served as the lead strategist at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, where he oversaw the office that developed the Agency’s five-year strategy, conducted the Agency’s research and tabletop exercise program, and executed Agency-level program evaluations. Leading a team of forty-two people, Peters revamped the research function within the Agency and oversaw the Department of Defense’s Track 1.5 and Track 2 strategic dialogues with allies and partners.

For many years, Peters served as a Senior Research Fellow at National Defense University’s Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction, where he focused on nuclear deterrence issues, countering weapons of mass destruction, and counterproliferation.

In the first Obama Administration, Peters served as the Special Advisor for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, where he worked on the New START nuclear arms control treaty, the 2010 Nuclear Posture Review, and the 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review.

In addition, Peters held positions at Northrop Grumman and the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies.

A prolific writer, Peters’ published works include examinations of the impact of Chinese nuclear expansion and Russian withdrawal from arms control, the prospect for future arms control, the need for a new nuclear posture review, and the mission to eliminate North Korean weapons of mass destruction.

Within Heritage, Peters’ portfolio includes the need to strengthen strategic stability and deterrence through an effective nuclear arsenal, the need for a robust and multi-domain missile defense capability, and the prospects for future arms control.

A graduate of Miami University and Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, Peters has lectured at National War College, Missouri State University, Army War College, and the United States Naval Academy

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of October 7th

03:02 Deterrence Failures and the Israeli Response

05:59 Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Regional Dynamics

08:45 The Future of Israel and Iran Relations

11:49 The Role of Arab Nations and Regional Politics

14:47 The Palestinian Perspective and Historical Context

18:03 Bob's Wishes for Peace and Resolution

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In this episode of NucleCast, Adam and Chris Stone engage in a deep discussion about the concept of dynamic parity in nuclear deterrence. They explore the implications of parity versus superiority in military strategy, the challenges of arms control, and the political landscape affecting defense spending. The conversation highlights the need for modernization in the U.S. nuclear arsenal and the importance of understanding adversaries' capabilities and strategies.

Christopher Stone is a Senior Fellow for Space Deterrence Studies at the National Institute for Deterrence Studies and Host of Real Space Strategy podcast. He previously served as special assistant to the deputy assistant secretary of defense for space policy.

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Captain Retired Brad Baker discusses the development of the nuclear engineering program at the U.S. Naval Academy and the recruitment of nuclear propulsion officers. He emphasizes the importance of technical training and the opportunities available in the Navy for those with a nuclear engineering background. Brad also talks about the additive manufacturing program at the Naval Academy and its significance for the Navy. He envisions the merging of energetics and additive manufacturing, as well as the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in additive manufacturing and highlights the need for advancements in the qualification of additive manufacturing parts.

Proudly starting his military career as an enlisted Sailor, Dr. Brad Baker completed a distinguished 36-year career in the Navy retiring as a Captain with degrees in Marine Engineering, Joint Campaign Planning and Strategy, and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. He served in a variety of leadership positions in submarines followed by over 10 years as a Permanent Military Professor at the United States Naval Academy where he was one of few military members promoted to Associate Professor. A strong advocate for the Naval Academy and education, he has the longest tenure as chairman of the Naval Academy’s Admission Board serving in that capacity for 7 years. He has received multiple award recognitions including teaching awards, selection as one of the 20 most influential academics in smart manufacturing in 2021, the first ever education and workforce development award by America Makes in 2024, and other awards. Following his retirement from the military, he became Principal Engineer for Energetics Technology Center bringing his leadership and technical expertise to expand the engineering analysis and strategic policy around energetic materials and advanced manufacturing. His technical areas of expertise include materials science, nuclear engineering, microscopy, and additive manufacturing.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:27 Establishing the Nuclear Engineering Program at the Naval Academy

05:52 Recruiting Nuclear Propulsion Officers

10:11 The Significance of Additive Manufacturing at the Naval Academy

17:29 Merging Energetics and Additive Manufacturing

20:39 Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Additive Manufacturing

29:16 Advancements in Qualification of Additive Manufacturing Parts

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Dr. Adam Lowther joins guest host, Jim Howe, to discuss the current state of America's nuclear deterrent and proposes a new approach called Dynamic Parity. He explains that Dynamic Parity aims to create a balance of nuclear capability between the US and autocratic regimes, prevent superiority of adversaries, enhance extended deterrence, and manage the growth or decline of nuclear weapons. Lowther emphasizes the importance of transparency and clear communication to avoid ambiguity and misinterpretation. He also offers recommendations, including the need for a national debate on defense spending, prioritizing nuclear capabilities, and adhering to the Weinberger Doctrine before using force.

Dr. Adam Lowther is the host of NucleCast, the official podcast of the ANWA Deterrence Center, and Vice President for Research at the National Institute for Deterrence Studies. Previously, Dr. Lowther served as the Director of Strategic Deterrence Programs at the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska, U.S. Strategic Command's University Affiliated Research Center. Prior to joining NSRI, Dr. Lowther served as the first director of the department of multi-domain operations (MDO) at the Army Management Staff College (AMSC), was a professor at the U.S. Army’s School of Advanced Military Studies, founding director of the School of Advanced Nuclear Deterrence Studies, Kirtland AFB and director of the Center for Academic and Professional Journals at the Air Force Research Institute (AFRI), Maxwell AFB.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:31 Current State of American Nuclear Deterrent

05:09 The Changing Geopolitical Landscape

12:14 Introducing Dynamic Parity

20:20 Importance of Transparency and Clear Communication

22:44 Recommendations for a Stronger Nuclear Deterrent

28:39 Three Wishes for the Topic

32:06 Conclusion

https://thinkdeterrence.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Dynamic-Parity-Report.pdf

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In this episode of NucleCast, Rick Fisher, senior fellow with the International Assessment and Strategy Center, talks about the current state of North Korea's nuclear program. Fisher predicts that by the mid-2030s, North Korea will have the ability to conduct a catastrophic first strike against the United States. He credits the work of other experts in the field and discusses the development of North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and multiple independently targetable warheads (MIRVs). Fisher also highlights the close relationship between China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran in their pursuit of global hegemony and the need for the United States to strengthen its nuclear deterrent capabilities and missile defense systems.

Mr. Richard D. Fisher, Jr. is a Senior Fellow with the International Assessment and Strategy Center. In 2024 he joined the Advisory Board of the Free Press Foundation and in 2016 he joined the Advisory Board of the Global Taiwan Institute and is a columnist for the Taipei Times.

He previously worked with the Center for Security Policy, Jamestown Foundation China Brief, U.S. House of Representatives Republican Policy Committee, and The Heritage Foundation. He is the author of China’s Military Modernization, Building for Regional and Global Reach (Praeger, 2008, Stanford University Press, 2010, Taiwan Ministry of National Defense translation 2012) Since 1996 he has covered scores of international arms exhibits and his articles have been published in the Jane’s Intelligence Review, Jane’s Defence Weekly, Aviation Week and Space Technology, Armed Forces Journal, Far Eastern Economic Review, Asian Wall Street Journal, Defense News, The Epoch Times and The Washington Times. He has studied at Georgetown University and received a B.A. (Honors) in 1981 from Eisenhower College.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:02 North Korea's Growing Nuclear Threat

06:38 North Korea's Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles

08:06 Possible Collaboration with Pakistan on MIRV Capabilities

11:16 The Relationship Between North Korea and Russia

18:55 The Dangerous Alliance of China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran

25:56 The Need to Strengthen the United States' Nuclear Deterrent

32:22 Wishes for the Future

36:51 Conclusion

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Major David Phillips discusses his article on the feasibility, acceptability, and suitability of redeploying non-strategic nuclear weapons to South Korea. He highlights the need for the US to re-examine its policy goal of achieving denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and suggests that the redeployment of nuclear weapons would strengthen deterrence and assurance in the region. He emphasizes the importance of fully informed conversations among US policymakers and the need for bold action to ensure strategic stability in East Asia.

Major David Phillips (Jobs) is a Nuclear and Missile Operations Officer in the United States Air Force, current student at the School of Advanced Nuclear Deterrence Studies (SANDS), member of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Mid-Career Cadre, and former Nuclear Scholar with the CSIS. His latest nuclear policy research, “Nuclear Redeployment: A Roadmap for Returning Nonstrategic Nuclear Weapons to the Korean Peninsula,” examines the feasibility, acceptability, and suitability of the United States returning nuclear weapons to the Republic of Korea; this research was nominated and selected for the 2024 General Larry D. Welch Deterrence Writing Award. David has over 9,000 nuclear command and control alert hours in support of our national defense and strategic deterrent across three nuclear weapon platforms. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree and Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Denver as well as a graduate certificate in Great Power Competition from the Naval Postgraduate School.

(PDF) Nuclear Redeployment: A Roadmap for Returning Nonstrategic Nuclear Weapons to the Korean Peninsula (researchgate.net)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Congratulations on Winning the Larry D. Welch Writing Award

02:06 Motivation Behind the Article: The Dangerous Situation on the Korean Peninsula

04:18 Main Findings: Feasibility, Acceptability, and Suitability of Redeployment

06:48 Costs and Affordability of the Redeployment Proposal

08:49 US Policy and the Acceptability of Redeploying Nuclear Weapons

11:20 Suitability of Redeployment as a Solution to Deterrence Challenges

23:35 Re-examining US Policy on Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula

29:59 Taking Bold Action for Strategic Stability in East Asia

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Part 2 of this history of Air Force Global Strike Command features former Commander Jim Kowalski. He discusses the challenges and accomplishments of standing up the Global Strike Command. The conversation covers topics such as basing decisions, culture change, resourcing, and the importance of maintaining a strong nuclear force. Lt. Gen. Kowalski emphasizes the need for a public awakening to the dangers posed by peer and near-peer adversaries and the importance of recognizing and honoring the mission of the nuclear force. He also shares a story about General LeMay's focus on excellence in the job.

General Kowalski was commissioned in 1979 through the ROTC program at the University of Cincinnati. He held a variety of operational commands, including a bomb squadron, an operations group, a bomb wing, and an air control wing over his 35-year career. Kowalski retired from active duty on 1 September 2015.

Kowalski's experience includes command of the 405th Air Expeditionary Wing in Southwest Asia where he led a combined wing of B-1Bs, E-3s and KC-135s for operation Iraqi Freedom. His previous staff assignments include Headquarters Air Combat Command, Headquarters U.S. Air Force and the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

In January 2009 he led the organization and activation of the Air Force’s first new major command in 27 years and subsequently served as the second Commander of Air Force Global Strike Command. In that position he oversaw the modernization of the Air Force’s nuclear-capable bomber and missile systems and developed the strategic forces five-year plan. His last assignment was Deputy Commander of U.S. Strategic Command.

A command pilot, he has over 4,600 flight hours, including 127 combat hours, in the B-1, B-52, and E-3. His decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.

Following military service, Kowalski was a vice-president for the Northrop Grumman Corporation. He supported the company’s portfolio of defense systems including the B-2, B-21, and the Minuteman III and Sentinel ballistic missile systems. In 2023, he retired from Northrop Grumman and now advises on management and defense issues

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Recap

00:49 Stand-up of the Global Strike Command

03:20 Basing Decisions and Location

06:29 Challenges of Activation and Moving Personnel

09:24 Structure, Authorities, and Culture Change

16:24 Resourcing: Personnel and Funding Challenges

19:29 Reemphasizing Nuclear Competencies and Strengths

25:32 Budget Constraints and Future Challenges

32:00 Wish for a Public Awakening to the Dangers

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