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Facing Coming Storms: Talking International Defence

Facing Coming Storms: Talking International Defence
Author: Peter Apps & Urban Podcasts
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Facing Coming Storms is the new international defence podcast from the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research and the Project for the Study of the 21st Century.
From confrontation to conflict, join Peter Apps each Monday for insightful discussions, conversations, and expert analysis.
Facing Coming Storms is produced by Urban Podcasts.
From confrontation to conflict, join Peter Apps each Monday for insightful discussions, conversations, and expert analysis.
Facing Coming Storms is produced by Urban Podcasts.
34 Episodes
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What if the wars of the future look nothing like the wars of the past?In this live edition of Facing Coming Storms, recorded at the Hereford Military History Festival, Pete Apps is joined by two leading voices on conflict: Sir Antony Beevor, Britain’s most acclaimed military historian, and Patrick Bury, former Royal Irish Regiment officer and security lecturer at the University of Bath. Together, they explore how the character of war is shifting - from the trenches of history to the drone-filled skies of today.The discussion ranges from the lessons of Stalingrad and the Second World War to the realities of Ukraine and beyond. Along the way, they tackle the rise of AI and autonomous weapons, the brutality of state-on-state fighting, and the question of how democratic societies can mobilise for conflict in an age of disinformation and division.What You’ll Learn- History’s Lessons: Why the past never repeats neatly - but still offers vital warnings for the present.- Technology and Warfare: How drones, AI, and modern weapons are changing the battlefield in unexpected ways.- Resilience and Society: What it takes for nations to prepare, mobilise, and endure in times of war.This thought-provoking conversation reminds us that while the tools of war may change, its human costs remain constant. It’s a call to understand the storms gathering on the horizon and to think seriously about how we face them.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
What if the next great naval revolution was already underway?In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Peter Apps speaks with Admiral Nils Wang - former head of the Danish Navy and Danish Defence College, now senior naval advisor and defence industry board member about the future of maritime warfare in an era defined by drones, AI, and hybrid threats.Together, they explore how unmanned systems are reshaping naval power, why Europe faces a shipbuilding crisis, and what Denmark's position between the North Sea and Baltic reveals about the challenges ahead. From the Arctic to the North Atlantic, Admiral Wang explains why navies must rethink force structure, embrace AI-supported surveillance, and adapt doctrine to a new tempo of conflict.What You'll Learn- Unmanned at Sea: Why drones and AI are as disruptive as the missile revolution of the 1960s.- Industrial Deterrence: How shipbuilding and missile production bottlenecks threaten Western resilience.- Future of Navies: Why numbers, adaptability, and young innovators will define the next decade.Admiral Wang's insights remind us that the coming storms at sea will demand not just powerful ships, but new ways of thinking, producing, and leading.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
What if NATO's biggest threat wasn't Russia but America's retreat?In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we welcome back Sten Rynning, Professor of War Studies at the Danish Institute for Advanced Studies and lecturer at the NATO Defence College. Author of NATO: From Cold War to Ukraine, Sten returns to unpack the turbulence shaking the alliance as the Trump administration redefines transatlantic security.From drone incursions into Polish airspace to NATO's shifting command structures, we explore how the U.S. is pulling back from conventional defence, doubling down on nuclear control, and leaving Europeans to fill the gap. Sten explains the rise of "mini-lateral" coalitions, the dangers of de-institutionalisation, and the growing unpredictability of both Russian provocations and Western political shifts.What You'll Learn- US-NATO Tensions: Why America's "tough love" approach risks weakening alliance cohesion.- European Security Shifts: How regional coalitions and defence spending are reshaping the balance.- Future Risks: What Russian provocations, far-right politics, and China mean for Europe's stability.Sten's insights remind us that NATO's strength has always come from unity and that preserving it in an era of uncertainty may be the hardest challenge yet.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
The war in Ukraine is not just a regional conflict – it is a testing ground for the future of warfare and a frontline in the wider confrontation between authoritarian regimes and the West.In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Peter Apps is joined by Bob Seely, former Member of Parliament, reservist and author of The New Total War. Drawing on his unique background and family legacy, Bob shares how the war in Ukraine is reshaping modern conflict and what it reveals about Russia's strategy, from the battlefield to political warfare.We discuss the rapid evolution of drone technology, why Ukraine has become the crucible of 21st-century ground warfare, and how the West risks falling behind in both readiness and resilience. Bob also explains how Russia's approach blends military and non-military tools-from propaganda to cyber operations-into a single, integrated form of warfare, and what that means for NATO, Eastern Europe, and the global balance of power.What You'll Learn- Modern Warfare Lessons: Why Ukraine and Russia are redefining ground tactics for the drone age.- Russia's Strategy: How Moscow combines military force with political, economic, and information warfare.- Global Implications: What this conflict means for NATO, Eastern Europe, and the risks of wider escalation.Bob's insights remind us that Ukraine is not just fighting for its survival-it is showing the world the future of warfare, and the urgent need for us to be ready.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
What if cutting-edge technology could redefine global defence strategies?In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Peter Apps is joined by James Black, Deputy Director at RAND Europe and an expert in strategic competition and emerging technologies. Together, they explore the transformative power of defence technology, its profound implications for global security and industry, and key lessons from history, with a spotlight on the DSEI showcase - a premier event for defence industry leaders.What You'll Discover- Technological Innovation: How soldiers and strategists can leverage AI, drones, and other breakthroughs to drive defence advancements.- Alliance Building: Why strengthening coalitions is critical to countering authoritarian advantages during peacetime.- Deterrence Strategies: How coordinated, resilient responses can prevent conflicts and enhance global stability.We dive into military applications, tackle procurement challenges, and analyse industrial dynamics, revealing how democracies can harness alliances for robust deterrence. James' insights provide strategic clarity, empowering listeners to navigate future challenges and foster global collaboration.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
What if understanding limited nuclear war could prevent global catastrophe? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we explore the chilling realities of nuclear risks and war planning with Bob Manning, Senior Research Fellow for Strategic Deterrence at the Heritage Foundation and a veteran of nearly 20 years in the US Department of Defence, and Leo Keay, a PhD candidate and parliamentary researcher.We explore non-strategic nuclear weapons, escalation scenarios involving Russia and China, NATO's role, and US deterrence strategies, drawing from their report on learning to navigate the bomb.What You'll Learn- Deterrence Dynamics: Grasp how non-strategic weapons influence limited conflicts to inform strategic planning.- Escalation Risks: Recognise thresholds in Russian and Chinese doctrines to anticipate potential nuclear use.- Policy Preparedness: Evaluate NATO's vulnerabilities and advocate for robust responses to emerging threats.We discuss real-world implications like Russia's aerospace attacks, China's hypersonic capabilities, and the need for credible US deterrence, including insights from historical contexts like the siege of Leningrad. Practical tips include fostering international dialogue and enhancing allied coordination for stronger security.Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
What if peering into one leader's mind could shape the future of global defence? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Peter Apps explores the psyche of Chinese President Xi Jinping with Michael Sheridan, a veteran foreign correspondent and author of The Red Emperor. Michael, who first reported for Reuters in 1980, shares insights from Xi's revolutionary roots to his iron grip on power, exploring his strategic thinking, Taiwan ambitions, and what might follow his rule.What You’ll Learn- Xi's Formative Influences: Grasp how his father's Red Army legacy and personal hardships forged a leader focused on discipline and national revival.- Taiwan Risks: Assess the calculated path to potential conflict by 2027, balancing military readiness with political caution.- Succession Scenarios: Prepare for a shift to collective leadership post-Xi, potentially easing tensions and opening reform paths.We discuss Xi's purge of rivals, his emphasis on consensus in decision-making, and the evolution of China's governance from Mao's era to today. For defence professionals, it's a toolkit for understanding adversary mindsets and anticipating strategic moves.Key Moments2:10 - The Rise of Xi Jinping4:35 - Impact of the Cultural Revolution9:05 - The Complexities of Taiwan14:03 - Taiwan's Independence and China's Stance19:20 - Understanding Chinese Military Structure25:04 - The Stakes of Potential Conflict28:38 - The Role of the U.S. in Taiwan32:21 - The China-Russia Relationship35:25 - Historical Grievances and Alliances40:06 - Benefits of the Ukraine War for China43:27 - Xi Jinping's Approach to U.S. Relations55:14 - Future Leadership in ChinaFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
What’s shaping the Middle East’s evolving landscape? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we’re joined by Hayat Alvi, Ph.D., a professor at the US Naval War College, to explore the factors driving change in the region. We discuss how Iran’s regional strategies are adapting to new challenges and what their measured responses might indicate, drawing on Hayat’s expertise in international relations.We also examine shifting global dynamics, including the US’s growing focus on Asia, Europe’s efforts to navigate its role, and the broader impact of ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.Key moments3:05 - Middle East Dynamics5:31 - The Israeli-Iranian Conflict Unfolds8:19 - Complex Interests of Regional Players10:38 - Media Narratives and Public Sentiment12:53 - U.S. Military Strategy and Iran16:42 - The Trump Doctrine in the Middle East22:16 - Challenges of Conflict Resolution24:04 - The U.S. Position in the Region25:41 - Unmanned Systems and Future Warfare29:36 - Turkey's Evolving Role and Interests34:38 - Israel's Strikes and Syrian Dynamics38:58 - Regional Power Plays and ExpansionFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
How do Russia's and China's militaries align and differ in today’s world? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Mark Cozad, a RAND Corporation senior defence researcher and former US Air Force intelligence officer joins Peter Apps, to explore how NATO’s 1999 Kosovo campaign pushed both nations toward “non-contact warfare,” mixing precision strikes with political strategy to counter the West. Russia leans on mass mobilisation, as seen in Ukraine, while China bets on cutting-edge tech and institutional strength.We dive into the human and strategic factors - Russia’s purges and cultural shifts versus China’s lack of combat experience since 1979 - plus nuclear posturing, alliances, and flashpoints like Taiwan or Korea.Key moments1:45 - Non-Contact Warfare Explained6:54 - Military Evolution Post-19999:49 - Modern PLA vs. Russian Military16:09 - Chinese Perspectives on Taiwan Conflict30:05 - Internal Military Cultures33:24 - Planning and Execution Challenges42:12 - Future Directions for the PLAFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
Ben Connable, a former US Marine and leader of the Battle Research Group, discusses the realities of ground combat and their implications for future warfare. We explore the importance of studying battles like Ukraine’s Irpin River clash to understand tactics, human will, and war’s evolving nature, drawing on his team’s fieldwork in Iraq and Ukraine to fill gaps in modern military history often lost to digital records or overshadowed by high-tech solutions.We discuss how shrinking militaries and reliance on technology impact risk and decision-making, emphasising the need to preserve primary sources to prepare for future conflicts.Key moments1:11 - The Battle Research Group7:37 - Tactical Level Studies14:12 - Adaptability in Military Culture16:23 - Evolving Military Forces19:12 - The Role of Leadership20:57 - Understanding Civilian Perspectives32:54 - Civilian Impact in Warfare34:46 - Fighting in Industrialized Cities39:42 - Knowledge Gaps in Military History40:26 - The Character of War48:16 - The Need for Accurate RecordkeepingFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
Can Europe’s fragmented defence industry meet the demands of a shifting geopolitical landscape? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Stuart Dee from RAND Europe joins Peter Apps to unpack the NATO summit in The Hague, where pledges to raise defence spending to 3.5%–5% of GDP signal a bold shift. They discuss why large budgets fail to deliver, hindered by a splintered industrial base.From Germany’s post-2022 rearmament to balancing tanks with tech like quantum computing, they explore innovative approaches like Helsing’s “resilience factories,” alongside challenges like the UK’s nuclear submarine goals and Ukraine’s agile drone industry.Key moments1:43 - US Defence Shifts and European Implications2:31 - The European Defence Industrial Landscape7:48 - Spending Boosts and National Ambitions10:34 - Germany's Defence Spending Dilemma13:49 - The Turning Point: Ukraine's Impact17:47 - Future Technologies and Defence Strategies22:52 - Industrial Base Challenges in Defence34:58 - Innovations in Defence Manufacturing38:26 - Economic Growth and Defence Spending44:38 - The 1.5% Defence Spending Question48:27 - The Complexity of Defence BudgetsFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
What’s really shaping America’s foreign policy under Trump, and how does it ripple out to the rest of us? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we are joined with Nikolas Gvosdev, a professor at the US Naval War College sharing his personal insights, as we unpack unpredictable US strategy—from strikes on Iran to mixed signals on Ukraine and alliances. We explore tension between bold actions and restraint, questioning if there’s a coherent Trump doctrine or just competing visions in the administration.We reflect on the NATO summit’s “America is back” vibe, challenges for allies like Japan amid tariffs and shifting priorities, and planning headaches with flip-flopping US commitments. From nuclear postures to balkanised alliances, it’s a candid look at how these dynamics force everyone to rethink agility and self-reliance in an era of endless escalation.Key moments02:08 - Uncertainty in U.S. National Security Decisions09:58 - Crisis Response and Resource Constraints16:01 - European Allies’ Role in Ukraine24:53 - Russian Long-Term Struggle Narrative33:35 - Potential Tensions in Administration41:51 - Complexities in European DeterrenceFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
How are drone strikes and precision targeting transforming warfare? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, George Barrows from the Institute for the Study of War and Brian Carter from the American Enterprise Institute analyse Ukraine’s Operation Spider’s Web, smuggling drones into Russia to disrupt airfields, and Israel’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear program. These intelligence-driven operations expose air defence vulnerabilities and reshape global conflicts.Iran’s proxy strategy crumbles under Israel’s precision, while Ukraine’s bold moves challenge Russian dominance. We examine how high-tech warfare, limited munitions, and interconnected flashpoints redefine battle lines, providing a stark view of war’s evolving nature.Key moments09:39 - Probing Air Defences Globally19:42 - Strategic Impact of Spiderweb Operation25:00 - AI-Driven Targeting Capabilities36:03 - Targeting Key Personnel in Conflicts37:29 - Defining Modern Warfare39:31 - Russia’s Potential for Limited Wars41:22 - Vulnerability to Stealth Strikes43:12 - Chinese Concerns Over Penetration43:29 - NATO’s Air Power Limitations45:56 - Munitions and Sustainability Issues53:12 - Drone Threats to DefencesFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we explore how the British Army is preparing for growing global threats. I’m joined by Nicholas Drummond, a former Army officer and KNDS defence consultant, straight from the Royal United Services Institute’s Land Warfare Conference. We discuss the Army’s bold plans to double its lethality by 2027 and align with NATO’s focus on countering Russia in Eastern Europe. Key conference themes include fighting smarter, boosting readiness, and strengthening resilience, despite a Strategic Defence Review that sets big goals but delays funding until 2027.We address the Army’s shrinking size, recruitment challenges, and the need for a stronger reserve force. Comparing Britain to Poland’s rocket buildup and Estonia’s bold defence strategies, we look at its role in a divided European defence landscape, with the US urging a focus on Europe over Asia. With honest talk on leadership, technology, and avoiding complacency, this episode reveals the Army’s efforts to adapt to an uncertain future.Key moments02:27 - Themes from RUSI Land Warfare Conference 08:08 - British Army’s Two-Division Strategy 10:09 - NATO’s Third Age and European Focus 24:08 - U.S. Military’s Social Contract 30:10 - Equipment Modernization Needs 37:33 - Cultural Shifts in Military Leadership 39:40 - Importance of NCO Education 47:41 - Autonomous Ground Vehicles 50:34 - Russia’s Internal Dynamics 51:19 - Leadership Longevity Concerns 52:33 - Risks in Eastern Europe Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
Artificial intelligence is reshaping warfare, and in this episode, we explore its profound implications with Michael Nyberg, a professor at the US Army War College, and Tom Crosby, an associate professor at the Royal Danish Defence College. Tom’s sociological view questions if AI could lead to a “post-human” war, eroding human limits and strengths, while Michael, a historian, sees AI distilling vast archives into actionable insights for leaders. Their insights, shaped by teaching future commanders, spark reflection on AI’s dual nature—amplifying or destabilising conflict.What You’ll LearnAI’s Risks: How non-human actors could redefine war’s escalation.Historical Insight: Using AI to query past conflicts for today’s strategies.Cultural Dynamics: Balancing warrior ethos with modern values in AI’s shadow.Officer Training: Preparing leaders for AI’s opportunities and limits.Both speakers contributed chapters on this topic to CHACR's latest book: Storm Proofing: Preparing Armies for Future War.Key Moments06:08 - Historical Insights via AI10:10 - AI-Driven Targeting in Conflict15:28 - Military Culture and AI Integration19:34 - Engaging Future Military Leaders24:54 - Crafting Effective AI Queries27:27 - AI as a Thinking Tool30:17 - Navigating Rapid Technological Shifts34:35 - AI’s Opportunities and LimitsFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Matthew Sperzel and Daniel Shats from the Institute for the Study of War join us to explore rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. We discuss China’s growing military and diplomatic pressure—daily aerial incursions, coast guard patrols near Taiwan’s islands—and debate if Xi Jinping’s 2027 deadline signals action or posturing.What You’ll LearnChina’s Coercion: How daily military moves pressure Taiwan. Taiwan’s Defence: Asymmetric strategies against a giant. US Ambiguity: The delicate balance of deterrence. Global Stakes: Taiwan’s role in a wider geopolitical storm.Matthew and Daniel’s insights reveal Taiwan as a crucible for our turbulent times.Key moments04:18 - Escalating Chinese Pressure on Taiwan15:25 - Taiwan’s Asymmetric Military Strategy20:14 - U.S. Military Presence in Taiwan29:16 - China’s Blockade Drills and Scenarios42:34 - U.S. Preparations for a Taiwan Conflict51:29 - Hong Kong’s Impact on Taiwanese SentimentFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
The sky is the new battleground for global powers. In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, aerospace expert Douglas Barry from the International Institute for Strategic Studies joins us to unpack the rapid evolution of military aviation and space. From Ukraine’s drone tactics to China’s space defences and the U.S.’s next-generation fighters, we explore how drones, lasers, and sixth-generation aircraft are reshaping warfare.We dive into escalating costs, the race for air superiority, and the electromagnetic battlefield redefining missions. From fibre-optic drones to space militarization, we examine the toll on soldiers and commanders, plus the human cost.Key moments02:56 - Surge in Aerospace Innovation06:34 - Drone Proliferation and Countermeasures12:01 - Electronic Warfare and Fiber Optics15:14 - Role of Next-Gen Combat Aircraft19:19 - Impact of Space Systems on Warfare23:01 - Airspace Management Complexities26:20 - Recruitment and Retention Issues30:40 - AI-Driven Targeting Revolution34:33 - Performative Strikes and Escalation Risks38:14 - Space Vulnerabilities and Connectivity40:27 - Adapting to Rapid Technological ChangeFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
Is the West ready for a multipolar storm? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Samir Puri, former British diplomat and Chatham House director, joins us to dissect the West’s fading unipolar dominance as the Global South asserts its weight. We shred the 1990s fantasy of universal democracy and capitalism, now eclipsed by India’s strategic tightrope and South Africa’s bold Hague plays. From our election-monitoring days in Ukraine and Kenya, we trace the collapse of the West’s “history’s victor” myth.Puri argues that navigating this fragmented world demands cultural fluency as much as strategic muscle—vital for military, policy, and business leaders alike. With Ukraine’s war, China’s economic sway, and the UAE’s multi-alignment reshaping power, we explore how to thrive in a chaotic, multipolar future.Key moments03:32 - Evolution of the Global South's Role11:50 - Emerging Powers and Autonomous Strategies23:33 - Southeast Asia's Multi-Alignment Approach33:06 - Russia's Asian Pivot and Sanctions35:49 - Engaging the Global South Militarily43:23 - India's Strategic Multi-Alignment50:33 - Optimism Amid a Multipolar TransitionFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
Are we heading toward endless wars or can we pull back? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Nikolas Gvosdev joins us to dissect 2025’s conflicts—from Ukraine and Gaza to Houthi attacks and India-Pakistan tensions. We explore “performative strikes” risking escalation and depleted arsenals, like US Tomahawks and Europe’s scarce shells.Gvosdev reveals how drones sinking ships expose Western military gaps, unprepared for long wars. We probe nuclear powers clashing indirectly and societies’ readiness for mass casualties. From White House de-escalation to tariff-hit economies, this episode unpacks a world teetering between posturing and disaster—a must for grasping today’s unstable global order.Key moments07:25 - Balancing Military Will and Resource Constraints13:21 - Lessons from Prolonged Conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza17:50 - Evolving Norms of Nuclear Powers in Conflict21:46 - Societal Tolerance for Casualties in Modern Warfare30:36 - Global Economic Impacts on Conflict Dynamics35:12 - De-escalation Strategies in a Multipolar World43:12 - Cultural Influences on Military PreparednessFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.
How do armies adapt as tech surges and geopolitics destabilise? Leo Blanken from the US Naval Postgraduate School and JP Clark from the US Army War College, contributors to Storm Proofing: Preparing Armies for a Future War from CHACR, out this week, share insights. With the world less safe, this book unites fifteen UK, US, and European experts to prepare for an unpredictable storm. Storm Proofing probes how armies approach war, how soldiers think, and how these human elements mesh with AI and tech.Drawing from Storm Proofing, we explore the 2020s, where AI, drones, and edge computing reshape warfare—from Ukraine’s drone units to US Navy’s Gulf patrols. Leo unpacks the human side of autonomous systems; JP examines organizing soldiers for all-domain operations, blending instincts with tech. This episode tackles 21st-century conflict.Key moments3:54 - The Rise of AI in Military Operations7:23 - Integration Challenges in Modern Warfare9:51 - Balancing Tradition and Technology18:46 - Navigating Organisational Tensions27:35 - The Complexity of International Alliances45:08 - Preparing for Uncertain Futures56:13 - Reflections on Military EvolutionFacing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.