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When Americans think about admirals in the Pacific in WWII, names like Nimitz, Spruance, and Halsey spring to mind. You cannot fully understand the war in the Pacific if you don’t also look at the leaders on the Japanese side—men like Yamamoto, Kurita, and Nagumo. On this week’s Midrats Podcast, we’re going to dive into the story of Admiral Yamamoto with our guest, Ronald Drabkin. We’ll tap into his research that led up to his next book, Admiral Yamamoto: The Gripping Story of the Legendary Japanese Naval Commander Who Planned and Executed the Pearl Harbor Attack. Summary In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Admiral Yamamoto, a complex Japanese naval leader with a nuanced understanding of America, who played a pivotal role in World War II. Join us as we delve into his background, strategic mindset, and the lessons from his career. Key TopicsYamamoto’s early life and educationHis understanding of America and its influenceNaval strategies and battles in WWIIJapanese military culture and rivalryLeadership style and personal quirksImpact of his decisions on WWIIHis relationships and personal lifePost-war perception and legacyChapters 00:00 - Live intro and how Midrats handles audience questions 01:16 - Why the show is revisiting World War II and Admiral Yamamoto 02:41 - Ron Drabkin joins the show and the new book on Yamamoto 05:07 - Yamamoto’s childhood as Takano and the missionary who changed his life 07:21 - Lincoln, Franklin, and the ideals Yamamoto admired in America 10:11 - His letters reveal his real reactions to the United States 12:02 - Academy struggles, bullying, and the chip on his shoulder 14:14 - Poker, bluffing, cigars, and the gambling instinct 16:01 - The Russo-Japanese War and the loss of his fingers 19:19 - Why Yamamoto went to Mexico looking for oil 21:16 - The War College visit and Yamamoto’s aggressive curiosity 22:56 - Building Japanese naval aviation and rejecting battleship thinking 26:01 - Ruthless training standards and the cost in pilot losses 28:27 - Why the Japanese Army and Navy could barely cooperate 31:38 - The strategic logic behind a short war and Pearl Harbor 36:09 - Was Pearl Harbor supposed to force U.S. collapse? 38:07 - Midway planning and Yamamoto’s longer-term thinking 40:30 - Chioko, letters, and what his private life revealed 45:35 - Why Japanese submarines were not used as commerce raiders 46:45 - Vice Admiral Hori, friendship, and the survival of Yamamoto’s papers 49:34 - The myth of “Harvard-educated” Yamamoto and his lack of American friends 51:32 - Navy versus Army politics in Imperial Japan 54:04 - The Washington Naval Treaty and Yamamoto’s frustration 55:24 - Would Yamamoto’s survival have changed the war? 57:52 - How Japan views Yamamoto today 59:57 - Book release timing and where to find it Ronald Drabkin is a popular author of books on World War II and espionage history. He initially learned Japanese while attending a Japanese University, before starting a career at Intel and other high tech companies.He learned as an adult that his father had worked in counterintelligence for the US military. Curiosity about his father’s work drove him to do research that resulted in his first papers and book on Japanese naval intelligence. He noted that the romanticized American view of Admiral Yamamoto as a “reluctant warrior” didn’t seem accurate. Furthermore, no new biography of Yamamoto had been published in a very long time, and substantial new information was available in Japan. He has spent the last three years researching Yamamoto’s life across Japan and has even met and heard stories from Yamamoto’s family and some of his admirals, such as Kurita and Nagumo.

After a two-week availability period, the Midrats Podcast is back! Summary In this episode, we explore current geopolitical tensions, military readiness, and strategic challenges facing the US and its allies, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and international cooperation. Show LinksRussian restrictions on Estonia’s bordersCurfew on Russia’s Border with Estonia, Holger Roonemaa on SubstackGreat Circle ballistic arcs over GreenlandSix Days of War: June 1967 and the Making of the Modern Middle East, by Michael B. OrenOperation Red Sea RegattaShipfinder Hormuz TrackerHormuz Strait MonitorStrait of TiranItaly tires of EU military bureaucracy with Operation AspidesDepartment of War IG report on Operation Epic FuryUkrainian FP-7 Pelican SRBMUSAF Ponders Restart of C-17 line, Joseph Trevithick in TWZDeadly escalation in Black Sea attacks prompts fears of even higher food prices, Joanna Partridge in The GuardianThe US air force admitted to deploying weapons in space. Don’t expect the White House to explain why, Richard Luscombe in The GuardianKey TopicsRussian border curfews and testing NATO responsesGray zone operations in Europe and suspected incidentsThe importance of naval power and the Strait of HormuzUS energy independence and refinery capacity issuesThe strategic significance of Greenland and the ArcticSpace dominance and the importance of cislunar spaceEuropean NATO capabilities and weapon shortagesThe role of alliances and international cooperation in securityTakeawaysRussian testing of border restrictions signals potential for future escalationEuropean nations are underprepared for modern missile threatsUS needs to rebuild and modernize its heavy airlift capabilitiesGreenland’s strategic importance is increasing and must be securedControl of key maritime choke points is critical for global securitySpace dominance is essential for future military and economic powerEuropean navies lack sufficient missile defense capabilitiesEnergy infrastructure vulnerabilities pose national security risksChapters 00:00: Introduction to Geopolitical Tensions and NATO 02:04: Russian Border Curfews and Testing NATO Responses 03:55: European Operations and Weapon Shortages 06:09: The Strategic Importance of Greenland and the Arctic 10:01: Energy Security and Oil Refinery Capacity 15:10: Straits of Hormuz and Global Oil Transit 22:02: Black Sea, Yemen, and Middle East Tensions 30:00: Naval Power and the US Surface Fleet 36:06: European Naval Capabilities and Weapon Shortages 45:11: Space Power, Cislunar Space, and Future Threats 59:47: International Alliances and Strategic Cooperation 01:05:02: Conclusion: Preparing for a Dangerous World

At some point in the next decade, a historian is going to look at the first quarter of the 21st century from the perspective of the national security establishment and the blessings it had as it rose to global power status, and will publish the foundational reference book for those trying to understand that moment in time.Its primary rivals distracted and drained themselves in unnecessary quixotic quasi-imperial police actions, one in Central and Southwest Asia (U.S.A.), the other bled itself white attempting to reconstruct at least part of its predecessor’s empire (Russia). All the while, its economy grew, its diplomatic influence expanded, and its military became an impressive, if untested, colossus. Yes, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) had its problems and setbacks: demographic collapse, massive debt, economic fragility, and poor messaging—but so did its greatest competitors. In 2026, while most have been focused on the Iranian-Israeli-American conflict and the Russo-Ukrainian War rooted in unsolved issues from the end of the 20th century, the PRC continues its march forward into the future.Returning to the Midrats Podcast to discuss will be Dean Cheng. Dean is a Non-resident Senior Fellow, Potomac Institute for Policy Studies and Non-resident Fellow, George Washington University Space Policy Institute.He recently retired after 14 years with the Heritage Foundation, where he was a senior research fellow on Chinese political and security affairs, and wrote on various aspects of Chinese foreign and defense policy. Prior to joining the Heritage Foundation, he was a senior analyst with the China Studies Division (previously, Project Asia) at CNA from 2001-2009. Before joining CNA, he was a senior analyst with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) from 1996-2001. From 1993-1995, he was an analyst with the US Congress’ Office of Technology Assessment in the International Security and Space Division, where he studied the Chinese defense industrial complex.He is the author of the book Cyber Dragon: Inside China’s Information Warfare and Cyber Operations (NY: Praeger Publishing, 2016), as well as a number of papers and book chapters examining various aspects of Chinese security affairs. Summary In this episode, Mark, Sal, and Dean Cheng discusses China’s strategic challenges, space ambitions, AI development, and regional influence, providing insights into China’s long-term plans and global impact. Show LinksTo A Louse, On Seeing One on a Lady's Bonnet at Church, Robert BurnsGreat Wall, movie with Matt Damon2012, movie Himalayas Tsunami SceneRed Cliff, movie (the good one)Chapters 00:00: Introduction and overview of China’s global strategy 02:38: Dean Cheng’s background and China’s long-term planning 04:46: China’s strategic challenges beyond the US 06:04: North Korea’s shifting alliances and regional dynamics 08:06: Russia, China, and North Korea cooperation 10:27: Chinese perceptions of US and regional threats 12:25: Japan, Korea, and China’s regional ambitions 14:29: China’s post-COVID strategic posture and influence 16:03: China’s national messaging and global image 17:28: Xi Jinping’s strategic vision and military buildup 19:57: China’s influence in the Pacific and Arctic regions 22:42: Canada, Greenland, and China’s northern ambitions 31:00: China’s space program and lunar exploration 49:58: The race to the moon and space dominance 54:46: Future of space exploration and international standards 55:33: Long-term US space strategy and Chinese competition 59:36: US and Chinese space efforts and collaboration 01:00:26: Conclusion

For me, it is funny but serious that the phrase I started saying in 2019 that we were going to keep building Arleigh Burke DDGs “until the crack of doom” has turned into prophecy. With the anticipated death of DDG(X) and FFG-62, the Burkes are about the only game in town. That fact naturally flows into a point we have raised here and on the Midrats Podcast for the last couple of decades: How are we going to conduct repair and maintenance under combat conditions should we find ourselves in a fight west of the International Date Line? Well, we’ve got the perfect intersection of both issues for the next episode of Midrats. This RAND Report from May caught my eye: The Arleigh Burke–class guided missile destroyer, commonly known as a DDG-51, is the primary surface combatant vessel of the U.S. Navy. These ships—designed to operate in contested environments—are likely to sustain widespread battle damage from diverse attacks should a conflict develop in the Indo-Pacific region. The prevalent nature of this damage would give rise to the greatest demand for ship repair that the Navy has experienced since World War II.To evaluate requirements for and potential issues with a significant demand for salvaging and repairing battle-damaged destroyers, the authors conducted a tabletop exercise on August 13–14, 2025, with participants from the United States and allied nations in the Indo-Pacific. The participants were split into four groups, and each group represented U.S. and allied stakeholders who would be involved in the repairs. The report is titled, Battle Damage Repair for Arleigh Burke–Class Destroyers: Tabletop Exercise Results. Our guest is one of the authors of the report, Bradley Martin. Bradley Martin is a senior policy researcher at RAND. He retired from the Navy as a surface warfare Captain after 30 years of service, including four command tours.In addition to his operational tours, Martin served on the staff of U.S. Forces Japan, on the OPNAV staff as an operations analyst, and, most recently, as the Navy coordinator for participation in Joint Staff and OSD requirements and resources forums. His subspecialties included operations research, operational logistics, and strategic planning. His work at RAND focuses on Navy force structure and capabilities, supply chain security and resilience, and national security strategy. Prior to joining the Navy, he achieved a doctorate in political science from the University of Michigan, while working as a research assistant for the Correlates of War Project. Show LinksBattle Damage Repair for Arleigh Burke–Class DestroyersRepair CFT Brief for JTEG Forum on “Expeditionary Repair” CDR Erich C. Schwarz, USN, July 2022Summary In this episode, we explore the insights from a recent tabletop exercise on naval repair capabilities and strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific, featuring Captain Brad Martin. We discuss the importance of organic repair assets, the vulnerabilities of fixed bases, and the need for adaptable logistics in wartime scenarios.Chapters00:00: Introduction to the tabletop exercise and its significance04:02: What makes a successful tabletop exercise and team composition09:01: Key findings: surprises and vulnerabilities in naval repair15:03: The importance of organic repair capabilities and their current gaps21:03: Lessons from history: Cold War to modern challenges27:11: The impact of logistics, parts, and industrial base on wartime readiness34:01: Geopolitical considerations and the role of partner nations40:09: The need for mobile, flexible repair assets in contested environments50:05: Concluding thoughts: preparing for a prolonged conflict

What a great weekend for a good old fashioned Midrats Podcast Maritime Melee!Petty domestic political posturing has decided to broach a whole series of our favorite subjects for the last 17 years: carrier shortages, neglect of our auxiliaries in our Combat Logistics Force, leadership at sea, ships adrift…enough for a whole series of shows, but Mark and I promise to keep today’s show to an hour. Show LinksSnopes on USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) issuesWSJ article on Admiral Cooper’s visit to ABECasey William’s dad being a good dadUSS Benfold (DDG 65) loses powerChapters 00:00: Introduction and overview of naval challenges 02:07: The need for more ships and the Ship Act 04:14: Historical context of fleet size and shipbuilding 07:06: Deployment length, mental health, and port visits 11:59: The aging fleet and the importance of new ships 16:08: Logistics challenges in the Indo-Pacific region 20:04: Power outages and maintenance on USS Benfold 24:55: The political landscape and funding issues 29:51: Mental health support and sailor resilience 35:03: Geopolitical considerations and port call limitations 39:55: Technological innovations and future ship designs 45:01: The importance of bipartisan support for naval modernization 49:45: Conclusion and call to action for naval investment

Panels, seminars, conferences, reports, speeches, and emotion do not build a navy. Even shipyards do not build a navy. In the American system of government, if you want a navy you have to go up to Capitol Hill and get Congress to fund it.Without money, everything else is just a PDF.What is the state of play in bringing the argument for sea power to Congress? Returning to the Midrats Podcast just in time for the Senate’s August recess is Brent Sadler, CAPT, USN (Ret.). Brent is a Senior Research Fellow for Naval Warfare and Advanced Technology in the Douglas and Sarah Allison Center for National Security at The Heritage Foundation, and a retired U.S. Navy Captain.Show LinksSHIPS for America ActSal’s exchange with Tom KarakoBooks by Brent SadlerBrent Sadler on LinkedInBrent Sadler on XSummary In this episode, Mark and Sal discuss with their guest Brent Sadler the legislative process behind maritime security, the SHIPS for America Act, and the importance of industrial capacity in national defense. Brent emphasizes the need for bipartisan support and strategic planning to strengthen America’s maritime industrial base and national security. Chapters 00:00: Introduction 02:14: The legislative process and seasonality in Congress 08:05: Status and details of the Ships for America Act 12:13: Bipartisan support and legislative challenges 17:00: The role of congressional staffers in policy making 21:54: Strategic importance of maritime industrial capacity 27:07: The impact of recent Navy funding and shipbuilding efforts 34:00: The need for reform in defense organizational structures 43:10: The importance of strategic communication and advocacy

I can think of few 18-month periods where shipbuilding, the merchant marine, and the importance of a strong maritime sector in the U.S. has been a more active topic. Near the center of this conversation—or at least a few paragraphs in—is a long-time friend of the show, Dr. Sal Mercogliano—returning to the Midrats Podcast.Sal is the Chair of the Department of History, Criminal Justice and Political Science at Campbell University; a former merchant mariner; and a contributor to USNI Proceedings, Sea History, Naval History, and gCaptain. He is also the host of the YouTube channel, What’s Going on With Shipping. Show LinksWhat’s Going on With ShippingUnauthorized History Podcast with Sal Mercogliano on WWII OilersSummary Both Sals and Mark discuss the importance of maritime security, supply chain resilience, and the strategic challenges posed by geopolitical conflicts in this in-depth interview. Additional discussion dives into global choke points, military logistics, and the future of US shipbuilding. Chapters 00:00: Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:45: Sal Mercogliano’s Background and Expertise 04:03: The Growth of Shipping Content and Public Interest 06:01: Impact of Evergiven Suez Canal Incident 07:02: Fragility of Global Supply Chains 09:37: Freedom of the Seas and Modern Challenges 10:36: Geopolitical Threats to Maritime Trade 12:02: Geography, Choke Points, and Strategic Control 13:25: Effects of Strait Closures on Economics and Security 14:43: Historical Lessons from Past Conflicts 16:06: US Military and Commercial Shipping Interplay 18:43: Offshoring Shipbuilding and Its Consequences 21:01: Revitalizing US Shipbuilding Industry 24:32: Logistics Support and Military Readiness 27:18: Protection of Critical Shipping Assets 30:42: Rising Sea Blindness and Strategic Awareness 33:00: Black Sea and Ukraine Conflict Insights 36:20: Trade Interdiction and Potential for Conflict 39:37: Global Supply Chain and Energy Security 41:33: Manpower and Workforce Challenges in Shipping 44:13: Defense Strategies for Maritime Security 48:33: Protection of US Naval and Commercial Assets 52:50: Technology and Innovation in Maritime Defense 55:13: Jones Act and US Maritime Policy 58:30: US Energy and Fuel Supply Challenges 01:01:53: Future Projects and Research in Shipping

With increased defense spending becoming the new normal and growing uncertainty on the alliance’s eastern front as the Russo-Ukrainian War enters its fifth summer, the Ankara NATO summit was more than just a photo-op.Returning to the Midrats Podcast to discuss the major takeaways will be Jorge Benitez. Summary In this episode, Dr. George Benitez discusses the recent NATO summit, focusing on defense spending, alliance strategies, and the evolving threats from Russia, China, and Iran. He provides insights into NATO’s strategic shifts, the importance of Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, and the challenges of modern military logistics and industrial capacity. Show LinksThe Ankara Summit DeclarationNATO Summit historyNATO nations’ defense spending as a percentage of GDPRobert Gates’s 2011 speechPatriot missiles produced in GermanyTakeawaysNATO has increased defense spending by 20% since 2023, with a goal of 5% of GDP.Ukraine’s military readiness and combat experience are vital for NATO deterrence.The alliance’s focus on China has waned, despite growing threats from Chinese cooperation with Russia and Iran.European defense industries are expanding production, e.g., Patriot missile manufacturing in Europe.Geography and proximity to Russia heavily influence NATO members’ defense budgets and perceptions of threat.Chapters 00:00: Introduction and overview of NATO summit 02:07: Dr. Benitez’s insights on NATO’s recent summit 04:12: US leadership and NATO’s Article 5 reaffirmation 05:50: Defense spending commitments and burden sharing 08:10: Russian threat and European defense efforts 12:22: Geography and threat perception in NATO 20:00: Ukraine’s role and NATO expansion 37:55: China’s evolving role and NATO’s strategic focus 45:25: European defense industries and supply chain resilience 01:01:17: European and NATO industrial cooperation 01:02:40: Closing remarks and follow-up Dr. Jorge Benitez is Associate Professor of International Relations at the Marine Corps Command and Staff College.Before he joined the faculty of the Marine Corps Command and Staff College, Dr. Benitez served as a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, where he regularly briefed senior US and foreign officials on national security issues. Earlier in his career, he served as Assistant for Alliance issues to the Director of NATO Affairs in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. He also worked on international security issues at the Department of State and the Institute for Foreign Policy Analysis. You can follow his coverage of security issues on X @NATOSource. Dr. Benitez received a B.A. with honors from the University of Florida, where he majored in both Political Science and History. He later graduated with an M.P.P. from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and a Ph.D. from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University.

Episode overview This episode covers a wide-ranging national security discussion, starting with a tribute to Senator Lindsey Graham and moving through major geopolitical flashpoints in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and modern drone warfare. Show link Sal Mergogliano's video on Sea of Azov attacks Key topicsTribute to Senator Lindsey Graham, his role in national security debates, and the political gap his passing leaves behind.China’s claim over the Batanes Islands and the strategic importance of the Luzon Strait and Bashi Channel.Growing U.S.-Philippines-Japan alignment in response to Chinese maritime pressure.China’s expanding coast guard presence and its pattern of diplomatic and territorial probing.Escalation in the Iran-United States-Israel conflict, including strikes on Iranian capabilities and the security of the Strait of Hormuz.A helicopter crash involving U.S. military personnel and the risks inherent in aviation and training operations.China’s missile testing behavior, transparency issues, and the difference between announced U.S. launches and China’s launches.The use of FPV/FP-style drones in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov as mission-kill weapons against ships and port infrastructure.The challenge of defending U.S. ports, fleets, and bases from drone attacks, especially in places like Norfolk and San Diego.The strategic vulnerability of logistics, shipyards, ports, infrastructure, and critical systems to non-nuclear attack.EMP risks, power grid fragility, and the cascading humanitarian effects of long-term electrical disruption.The U.S. Coast Guard cutter Eagle’s victory in the tall ships race and the pride surrounding that milestone.Notable takeawaysDrones and precision strike weapons are changing the definition of rear areas and sanctuary.Ports, shipyards, and logistics hubs may become more important targets than front-line combat forces.Maritime security is increasingly tied to air defense, counter-drone capability, and distributed protection.National security threats are no longer confined to major wars; they can emerge through gray-zone pressure, sabotage, and infrastructure attack.Featured discussion pointsStrategic geography in the Western PacificChinese maritime assertivenessDrone warfare and mission killsPort and base defenseEMP and infrastructure resilienceNaval service and public recognitionTimestamps(00:47): Welcome and introduction to the show’s topics(01:45): Importance of listening to live audience questions(02:54): Passing of Senator Lindsey Graham and his role in national security(06:15): Chinese territorial claims over Batanes Islands near Luzon(11:28): The expanding Chinese coast guard operations and South China Sea tensions(31:24): Analysis of Ukrainian drone attacks and missile strikes in the Sea of Azov(45:51): Challenges of port defense against drone and missile threats(55:38): EMP attack threats and infrastructure resilience(60:06): US Coast Guard Tall Ship race victory and maritime tradition(62:54): NATO summit discussions and European defense posture

For almost two years, the war on the Continent had been raging. The Battle of Verdun has already happened, but the real bloodshed had not even started yet, with the Battle of the Somme only a month away.While the European land armies have been fighting on a scale not seen since Napoleon a century earlier, major conflicts at sea were rare in spite of the major belligerents having great and powerful fleets. Like two heavyweight boxers wary of each other, the surface fleets of the Royal Navy and the Kaiserliche Marine stared at each other across the North Sea, throwing a jab here or there, but not committing for a hard fight. Then, in the early morning hours of May 31st, Vice Admiral Franz von Hipper's I Scouting Group got underway from the Jade estuary and headed north. This episode, we are going to look back at the Battle of Jutland with Simon Harley, naval historian, Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, and co-editor of The Dreadnought Project online resource. For his day job he sells vintage British motorcycle spares.You can at this link, or via the Spotify widget below. Show LinksSimon Harley on XBattle of Jutland Timeline, Imperial War MuseumThe Dreadnought ProjectThe Fighting Fleets, by Ralph Delahaye PaineCastles of Steel: Britain, Germany, and the Winning of the Great War at Sea, by Robert K. MassieClash of Fleets: Naval Battles of the Great War, 1914-18, by Vincent O’Hara, Leonard R HeinzSummary In this episode, naval historian Simon Harley discusses the Battle of Jutland, its strategic lessons, leadership personalities, and technological aspects, providing insights relevant to modern naval strategy.Sound bites“The German fleet has assaulted its jailer but it’s still in jail”“Luck really does play a massive part in naval battles”“Always make sure you’ve got the bigger fleet”Chapters 00:00: Introduction to the Battle of Jutland 05:04: Context of World War I and Naval Warfare 11:46: Intelligence and Communication Failures 19:26: Leadership Dynamics in Naval Command 27:02: Shipbuilding and Technological Advancements 30:26: The Cordite Controversy 32:33: Tactical Decisions and Luck in Naval Warfare 35:08: Fire Control Systems: A Comparative Analysis 37:15: Strategic Objectives of the German and British Navies 40:25: Mines and Their Impact on Naval Strategy 52:08: Lessons from Jutland: Fleet Size and Preparedness

It has been a bit more than six years since then Commandant of the Marine Corps, General David Berger, USMC, initiated what became known as Force Design 2030 (now just known as Force Design). What followed was a controversial change to the structure of the United States Marine Corps intended to address the challenge posed by the People's Republic of China in the western Pacific. Now more than halfway to the original 2030 target, and informed by events from Ukraine and Southwest Asia since 2020, both long-standing critics of the design and other voices are readdressing the changes—and the critique—to see if it remains the right path. Joining the Midrats Podcast is General Anthony Zinni, USMC (Ret.). Summary In this episode, retired General Anthony Zinny discusses the evolution of Marine Corps force design, its strategic implications, and the importance of a flexible, well-analyzed approach to military modernization. Show LinksGeneral Anthony Zinni, USMC (Ret.) full bioForce Design 2030Marine leaders drop ‘2030’ from name of ambitious overhaul planUSMC Force Design Update from 2023The Marines Must Think Bigger Than Small Units, Real Clear Defense, December 09, 2025, Anthony Zinni & Jerry McAbee , Timothy WellsMore funding for the wrong programs won’t fix the Marine Corps, Washington Times, July 10, 2025, by Gen. Charles Krulak and Gen. Anthony ZinniOn the Future of the Marine Corps: Assessing Force Design 2030, CSIS, May 16, 2022What is the role of the Marine Corps in today’s global security environment?, Task & Purpose, Apr 19, 2022, Anthony ZinniGeneral Anthony Zinni (ret.) on Wargaming Iraq, Millennium Challenge, and Competition, CIMSEC, October 18, 2021, by Mie Augier and Major Sean F. X. BarrettUSNA lecture: The Obligation to tell the truthChapters 00:00: Introduction to Force Design 2030 03:28: General Zinni’s Perspective on Force Design 17:33: Critique of Current Military Strategy 24:08: Cultural Dynamics within the Marine Corps 32:25: Logistics and Equipment Considerations 35:40: Strategic Military Logistics 38:01: Challenges in the Strait of Hormuz 40:37: Marine Corps Littoral Regiments 43:21: Logistics and Mobility in Modern Warfare 46:49: Lessons from Military History: The 70s and 90s 49:11: Innovation in Military Strategy 52:32: The Importance of a Structured Development Process 56:14: Future Threats and Military Preparedness General Zinni’s record of 35 years of service in uniform covers the breadth of service from the Vietnam War to his tour as Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) from 1997 to 2000. Following his retirement from active duty, General Zinni continued to serve in senior diplomatic roles, including as the U.S. Special Envoy to Israel and the Palestinian Authority (2001–2003) and later as Special Envoy to Qatar (2017–2019). He is the author of several books, including the New York Times bestsellers Battle Ready (with Tom Clancy) and The Battle for Peace, as well as Leading the Charge and Before the First Shots Are Fired. Additionally, he continues working in academic positions and as a speaker on geopolitics, ethical leadership, and America’s role in the world.

In creating a maritime renaissance in the U.S., there is a lot of work, discussion, and money going toward not just buying more ships, but also expanding the industrial base and training skilled tradespeople to make that expansion possible. A cornerstone of this should be training more dedicated Merchant Mariners and employing their skills in a better way. Returning to Midrats is Brent D. Sadler to discuss this and related topics. Along with Hollins Randolph and Peter Lynch, he co-authored a report at Heritage, Time to Bring Back the U.S. Maritime Service to Support America’s Maritime Revival and a Wartime Economy, that we will use as a basis for our conversation. Brent is Senior Research Fellow for Naval Warfare and Advanced Technology in the Douglas and Sarah Allison Center for National Security at The Heritage Foundation, and a retired U.S. Navy Captain. Summary This episode features Brent Sadler from the Heritage Foundation discussing the urgent need to revitalize the US maritime industry, focusing on the reactivation of the US Maritime Service, improving merchant marine training, and enhancing logistics for national security and wartime readiness. Chapters 00:00: Revitalizing Naval Power and Merchant Marine Support 02:34: The Importance of Merchant Mariners 06:19: Organizational Challenges in Maritime Operations 12:17: Credentialing and Training Issues 15:06: The TidalWave Project and Sea Lift Requirements 20:03: Leadership and Cultural Shifts in Maritime Services 25:10: Immediate Solutions for Maritime Needs 30:39: Addressing Vulnerabilities in Maritime Logistics

Blockades, 11-month deployments, the Vietnam War, shipbuilding plans, and some love for our friends from The Philippines…a full plate for a Midrats Free for All. Summary This episode covers the recent return of the USS Gerald Ford after a 326-day deployment, the significance of naval operations, shipbuilding plans, and geopolitical considerations in the Indo-Pacific region. The hosts analyze naval readiness, technological advancements, and strategic challenges facing the US Navy. Show LinksFORD Carrier Strike Group receives Presidential Unit Citation.USS Mahan (DDG-72) returns from deploymentUSS Midway (CV-41) off Vietnam 1973Easter Offensive of 1972Hong Kong’s Mary SooExecutive Orders:141921426514269Latest Shipbuilding PlanDecades-long requirement for a nuclear powered escortMobilize: How to Reboot the American Industrial Base and Stop World War III,by Shyam Sankar and Madeline HartEpisode 393: Building the right carrier; heavy, medium, or light with Tal ManvelBalikatan 2026China, the unwanted guestChapters 00:00: Introduction and Overview of the USS Gerald Ford’s Deployment 10:01: Lessons Learned from the USS Gerald Ford’s Deployment 14:24: Historical Context of Carrier Deployments 22:29: Life on Deployment: Experiences and Morale 30:27: Current Naval Operations and Future Considerations 33:02: The Ongoing Naval Operations in the Persian Gulf 38:55: Challenges in Aircraft Carrier Deployment 44:47: The Future of Shipbuilding and Naval Assets 50:54: The Role of Nuclear Power in Modern Naval Warfare 56:52: International Naval Cooperation and Exercises

Summary This episode explores the strategic maritime operations off the Straits of Hormuz, the impact of economic sanctions on Iran, and the future of naval amphibious forces. Experts discuss the nuances of naval blockade effectiveness, the importance of leadership in amphibious ships, and the broader geopolitical implications. Show LinksDVIDS Hub - Defense Visual Information Distribution ServiceSecretary of the Treasury Bessent on Operation Economic FuryWilliam Toti, CAPT, USN (Ret.)USS Indianapolis and Captain McVeigh - Court Martial Records Story of the USS Indianapolis, as told by Quint in the movie JawsVenezuelan oil output changesKarim Sadjadpour’s overview of economic impact of embargoSWOs take the amphibs backMidrats, Episode 712: Condition of the Navy’s Amphibious Fleet And Its Impacts on Marines: the View from GAONavy’s MQ-25A StingrayChapters 00:00: Introduction to Maritime Topics 01:58: The Blockade in the Straits of Hormuz 06:47: Understanding the Impact of Blockades 09:56: Economic Pressure on Iran 12:57: The Role of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps 18:01: Challenges of Regime Change in Iran 24:00: Lessons from Iraq and Venezuela 31:26: Naval Readiness and Command Changes 34:54: Navigating Command Structures in the Navy 39:00: The Role of Surface Warfare Officers 42:03: Career Pathways in Amphibious Warfare 45:47: The Future of Amphibious Forces 53:02: Leadership Changes in the Navy \01:00:04: Foreign Ship Designs and Naval Strategy

Summary This episode features Dr. Colin Dueck, with Mark and Sal, discussing the historical and strategic importance of U.S. policy towards Latin America, the evolution of the Monroe Doctrine, and current challenges and opportunities in the hemisphere. Discussion is centered on how U.S. foreign policy can shape the future of the region amid great power competition. Show Links Why the Monroe Doctrine Still Matters, Colin DueckDr. Colin Dueck’s AEI pageChina’s Growing Influence in Latin America, Council on Foreign RelationsBolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our AmericaThe band The Minutemen circa 1985Chapters 00:00: Introduction to U.S. Policy in Latin America 03:08: Historical Context of U.S. Influence 06:10: The Monroe Doctrine and Its Evolution 08:49: Cold War Dynamics in Latin America 11:30: Post-Cold War Attitudes and Challenges 14:37: Recent Political Shifts in Latin America 17:22: The Rise of Conservative Governments 19:53: Crime and Governance in Latin America 23:02: Future Implications for U.S.-Latin America Relations 28:33: Revitalizing Latin America: Opportunities and Challenges 29:26: Political Dynamics in Latin America: A Regional Overview 36:00: Energy Resources: The Key to Economic Development 37:51: China’s Influence in Latin America: A Double-Edged Sword 47:03: Strategic U.S. Engagement: Priorities for the Future Dr. Colin Dueck is a nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he is focusing on the interconnection between US national security strategies and party politics, conservative ideas, and presidential leadership. He is also a professor in the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, where he is the faculty adviser for the Alexander Hamilton Society. A senior nonresident fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, he has also served as a foreign policy adviser on several Republican presidential campaigns. Dr. Dueck is the author of three books on American foreign and national security policies: The Obama Doctrine: American Grand Strategy Today (Oxford University Press, 2015), Hard Line: The Republican Party and US Foreign Policy Since World War II (Princeton University Press, 2010), and Reluctant Crusaders: Power, Culture, and Change in American Grand Strategy (Princeton University Press, 2006). He has testified before Congress and has been published in academic journals and the popular press. These include International Security, Orbis, Political Science Quarterly, the Review of International Studies, Security Studies, World Policy Journal, The New York Times, Foreign Affairs, RealClearPolitics, and National Review. A Rhodes scholar, Dr. Dueck has a PhD in politics from Princeton University and an MPhil in international relations from Oxford University. He was also awarded a John M. Olin Postdoctoral Fellowship in national security studies by Harvard University. His earlier degrees in history were obtained from the University of Saskatchewan.