From the Crows' Nest

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller sits down with Bryan Clark, senior fellow and director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute. Bryan is the author of the newly released report, Winning the Fight for Sensing and Sensemaking: Fielding Cyber and Electronic Warfare Capabilities at Scale. The report tackles a critical challenge for the American defense industry: How can the DOD strengthen its supply chain and drive private-sector innovation in the non-kinetic defense space? Bryan outlines a six-step model designed to accelerate innovation in electronic warfare and EMSO, mirroring the success seen in kinetic programs. Tune in as he breaks down the key takeaways and what they mean for the future of defense technology.

In this exclusive episode of "From the Crows' Nest," available only to AOC members and subscribers, host Ken Miller is joined by Erik Bamford to discuss International EW headlines. Erik is Branch Chief for Electromagnetic Warfare with the Norwegian Armed Forces and a member of the AOC Board of Directors. Ken and Erik discuss a new Spectrum law that took effect in Norway that is a beacon for improving coalition EW training. They also discuss the evolution of joint EW training and coordination in NATO and some leading discussion topics that will be covered during AOC Europe in Rome in May 2025. Also, don’t miss Season 1 of our new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) podcast powered by L3 Harris. All six episodes are now available. To listen and learn more about the CTO Series, visit here.These special episodes are released twice a month. To access them and participate in live recordings as part of the virtual audience, become an AOC member at www.crows.org or subscribe for $2.99/month at www.ftcnpodcast.org. Join us today. You can reach the host directly to share your thoughts or questions you want FTCN to cover in future episodes at host@fromthecrowsnest.org.

In this episode of From the Crow's Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by a panel of special guests today: Scott “Sherm” Oliver, former chief of staff of the EMSO cross-functional team; Paul Arcangeli, senior advisor at the public relations firm Invariant and a former professional staff and staff director of the House Armed Services Committee in the U. S. Congress; and Jeffrey Fischer, author, journalist and new board member to the Association of Old Crows. The panel discussion was recorded in front of a live audience in December at AOC 2024.Ken and the panel have an open conversation about the Department of Defense’s EMS strategy and discuss fundamental questions facing folks in the EMSO and defense space: is the strategy succeeding in changing the way the DoD fights in the electromagnetic spectrum? Do elements of this plan need to be revisited? What are the prospects of reforming acquisition processes in a new Congress?Also, don’t miss Season 1 of our new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) podcast powered by L3 Harris. All six episodes are now available. To listen and learn more about the CTO Series, visit here.To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this special member-exclusive episode, host Ken Miller is joined by friend and colleague Col. Jeffrey Fischer, USAF (Ret.) to discuss the inauguration of President Donald Trump, what to expect from his new Cabinet, especially as it pertains to the future of NATO and the outlook for the Ukraine-Russia War. They also discuss the worsening challenge of EMS battle management and the role of EW in counter-counter-drone capabilities. Also, don’t miss Season 1 of our new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) podcast powered by L3 Harris. All six episodes are now available. To listen and learn more about the CTO Series, visit here.These special episodes are released twice a month. To access them and participate in live recordings as part of the virtual audience, become an AOC member at www.crows.org or subscribe for $2.99/month at www.ftcnpodcast.org. Join us today. You can reach the host directly to share your thoughts or questions you want FTCN to cover in future episodes at host@fromthecrowsnest.org.

In this exclusive episode of "From the Crows' Nest," available only to AOC members and subscribers, host Ken Miller answers audience questions and listener mail. Ken discusses everything from President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, to the legislative uncertainty of the new Congress, the need for greater awareness of Space EW, and what lessons should we be learning from the War in Ukraine to the Indo-Pacific region. Also, don’t miss Season 1 of our new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) podcast powered by L3 Harris. All six episodes are now available. To listen and learn more about the CTO Series, visit here.These special episodes are released twice a month. To access them and participate in live recordings as part of the virtual audience, become an AOC member at www.crows.org or subscribe for $2.99/month at www.ftcnpodcast.org. Join us today. You can reach the host directly to share your thoughts or questions you want FTCN to cover in future episodes at host@fromthecrowsnest.org.

In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller dives into the world of cutting-edge electronic warfare (EW) with Captain David Rueter, Program Manager for Airborne Electronic Attack Systems at the U.S. Navy’s PMA-234. From game-changing advancements to the challenges that keep him awake at night, Capt. Rueter offers an insider’s look into the Navy’s most critical EW initiatives.Capt. Rueter walks Ken through key programs shaping the future of airborne electronic attack, including the Next Generation Jammer (NGJ) mid- and low-band systems, the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System, and the Intrepid Tiger ALQ-231. While the Navy has been at the forefront of countering emerging threats, Capt. Rueter reveals a lingering concern: the readiness of the legacy ALQ-99 system, which dates back to the 1970s and remains a critical yet challenging component of the Navy's EW arsenal.Despite these hurdles, Capt. Rueter highlights significant progress, noting the rollout of the NGJ mid-band system in 2023 and L3Harris’s recent contract to advance the NGJ low-band system. As threats evolve, he emphasizes how vital these advancements are for maintaining the Navy’s edge in the electromagnetic battlespace.Tune in for an enlightening discussion that pulls back the curtain on the Navy’s relentless push to stay ahead in the ever-shifting realm of EW.To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this special episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by returning guest Dustan Hellwig, founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Chesapeake Technology International, to discuss what we know and need to know about the increased sightings of drones in NJ and along the East Coast of the U.S.  Ken and Dustan try to dispel conspiracies but recognize that what is happening points to a trend in both the commercial and military use of drones that will continue to evolve rapidly and this trend exposes cracks in our policies and procedures to address concerns in a timely manner. This is the last episode of 2024 (unless we decide it’s not!).  We’ll return to our regular episodes in early January 2025. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In part two of this special series, From the Crows’ Nest host Ken Miller brings back researchers Jeff Kojac and Olivia Letts from George Mason University Costello School of Business and its Baroni Center for Government Contracting to discuss the findings from six case studies they’ve conducted and what they ultimately recommend to reform the DOD’s PPBE Process.The pair found that their case studies ultimately confirmed commonly held criticisms of the process: that there were delays when funding rapid development and deployment of new capabilities was needed. They ultimately issued nine different recommendations to reform the process including reducing program elements to make a more streamlined and consolidated budget,  as well as amending the continuing resolution prohibition on new starts to allow program offices dealing with new requirements or new technological developments to adapt to them without having to wait until January or February of the following year. While the pair say the future of DOD PPBE reform is uncertain, they say that the final report has executive-level support — a note of optimism that some of these recommendations may be implemented.To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

This episode of From the Crows’ Nest is coming to you from AOC 2024. On Day 3 of the show, host Ken Miller is joined by Major General Elisabeth Michelsen, Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations at Joint Force Command Norfolk. They focus their discussion on lessons learned from the War in Ukraine and the strategic importance of the high North and Arctic territories. They also talk about strengthening training, technology development, especially in sensor and signals intelligence, and collaboration in the electromagnetic operating environment. Ken is then later joined by John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of AOC’s Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED) for his closing thoughts on AOC 2024. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

This episode of From the Crows’ Nest is coming to you from AOC 2024. On Day 2 of the show, host Ken Miller is joined by General Thomas Bussiere, Commander Air Force Global Strike Command and Commander, Air Forces Strategic – Air, U.S. Strategic Command. Later, Ken sits with Vice Admiral Craig Clapperton, Commander, U.S. Fleet Cyber Command / U.S. Tenth Fleet / Joint Force Headquarters - Cyber (Navy). They discuss this week’s theme of Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) in the context of Great Power Competition. They also share collaborative efforts under their leadership across the joint force and with allied/partner forces in the realm of EMSO. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

This episode of FTCN is coming to you from AOC 2024. We will be releasing new episodes each day as we discuss Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations - the Great Power Competition, the theme of this year’s show. Host Ken Miller sits down with opening keynote speaker Major General AnnMarie Anthony, Director of Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations within US STRATCOM. Ken and General Anthony set what EMSO means for today’s fight and the need to pursue education, training, and assessment of our ability to maneuver in the EMS. Ken also sits down with John Knowles, Editor in Chief of AOC’s Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED), for his take on what we need to learn and discuss here at AOC 2024.To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In the first of a special two-part series, From the Crows’ Nest host Ken Miller speaks with researchers Jeff Kojac and Olivia Letts from George Mason University Costello School of Business and its Baroni Center for Government Contracting to learn more about the Department of Defense’s PPBE (Planning, Programming, Budgeting, Execution) process and why their research finds the department’s decision-making processes is in need of major change.The PPBE process is a complicated process dating back decades.  Kojac and Letts walk through their research that was part of the work and final report of the Commission on PPBE Reform completed earlier this year. Letts says that PPPE affects everyone in the defense industrial base and many DOD entities have a very large stake in it. Yet few are experts on the process that Letts and Kojac describe as one that creates a moat for people actually understanding it and being able to function with it.Adding to this complexity is that Kojac says the PPBE process is highly dependent on Congress… and that understanding a highly divided Congress is key to understanding what is being debated in the PPBE.Part II of this interview will be released on December 18.To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this exclusive episode of "From the Crows' Nest," available only to AOC members and subscribers, host Ken Miller welcomes back John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of AOC’s Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED). Ken and John discuss the progress and future of the DOD’s Replicator Initiative as insight into how the Department is addressing evolving threats in the electromagnetic spectrum, especially pertaining to the use of unmanned systems. They also discuss the latest in the lawsuit brought about by Ligado LLC against the DOD and what it means for the push toward dynamic spectrum access. This is the final subscription bonus episode for 2024 through the holidays. We will return to our normal schedule in January 2025. Also, don’t miss Season 1 of our new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) podcast powered by L3 Harris. Episodes 1-3 are now available. To listen and learn more about the CTO Series, visit here.These special episodes are released twice a month. To access them and participate in live recordings as part of the virtual audience, become an AOC member at www.crows.org or subscribe for $2.99/month at www.ftcnpodcast.org. Join us today. You can reach the host directly to share your thoughts or questions you want FTCN to cover in future episodes at host@fromthecrowsnest.org.

In this episode of From the Crow's Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by Dr. Christopher Lloyd, Senior Technologist for Directed Energy with The Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division Virginia.The pair check in on several recent developments in the promising field of directed energy weapons (DEWs). Dr. Lloyd says that senior leaders with the Navy have realized that directed energy weapons can play an integral part in multi-domain operations. New prototypes and stronger ties between the Office of the Secretary of Defense, academia and industry partners make the capability one with few limits on its utility. Dr. Lloyd details how two directed energy weapon programs — the Optical Dazzling Interdictor (ODIN), a low-power laser system, and the the High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) system —  have been significant wins for the Navy in allowing its sailors to become more proficient with this new technology.Interested in taking a deeper dive into EW technology? Visit here to access the new 6-episode FTCN Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Series. Season 1of is powered by L3Harris. Episodes 1 and 2 are now available.To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this exclusive episode of "From the Crows' Nest," available only to AOC members and subscribers, host Ken Miller welcomes back author, journalist, and expert Jeffrey Fischer. They discuss what the US elections mean for global defense and security. What’s in store for US partners and allies, including NATO, as the in-coming Trump Administration re-evaluates US leadership and intervention abroad. They also discuss recent developments in the War in Ukraine and how drones and commercial off-the-self technology is changing the way we fight in the EMS. These special episodes are released twice a month. To access them and participate in live recordings as part of the virtual audience, become an AOC member at www.crows.org or subscribe for $2.99/month at www.ftcnpodcast.org. Join us today. You can reach the host directly to share your thoughts or questions you want FTCN to cover in future episodes at host@fromthecrowsnest.org.

In this episode of "From The Crow’s Nest," host Ken Miller is joined by Colonel Michael Middents and Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Cox at Robins Air Force Base in Georgia to celebrate the activation of the 950th Spectrum Warfare Group and the 17th Electronic Warfare Squadron.Lieutenant Colonel Cox highlights how Air Force leadership is beginning to recognize the historic neglect of electronic warfare within its ranks. He explains that only recently have the Air Force and DOD started investing in strengthening cohesion and uniting these critical military components. Colonel Minutes concurs, adding that the Air Force has untapped growth potential in the realm of electronic warfare, signaling an exciting new chapter for the service.To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode, Ken Miller, AOC’s Director of Advocacy and Outreach, sits down with Madison Strader Arcangeli, Managing Partner, and Katy Nazaretova, Director of National Security and Technology Policy at Forza DC, for an insider's preview of the 2024 U.S. general election. They dive into the key dynamics shaping the presidential, House, and Senate races, shedding light on polling challenges, spotlight races, and the importance of every vote. Tune in for expert insights and a look at the impact these races could have on the future of national security and policy.These exclusive episodes are released twice a month, keeping you informed on the latest developments in electromagnetic spectrum warfare. To access them and participate in live recordings as a member of the virtual audience, join AOC at www.crows.org or subscribe for just $2.99/month at www.ftcnpodcast.org.We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts or questions directly with the host at host@fromthecrowsnest.org. Stay engaged and be part of the conversation shaping the future of EW.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller sits down with Anthony Lisuzzo, AOC’s President-Elect and a dynamic force in the world of electromagnetic warfare. Tony brings a wealth of experience, having served as a Senior Executive Service (SES) leader within the Department of Defense and U.S. Army, and now steering the ship as President and CEO of Ironwave Technologies, a cutting-edge component manufacturing company. Ken and Tony discuss the changing landscape of EW over the last 20 years, from Tony’s time as an SES and until now through his lens of industry leader. They also discuss Tony’s vision for the AOC during his time in office which begins in December at AOC 2024 (December 11-13, National Habor, MD) and what issues should garner greater attention in the AOC. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this exclusive episode for AOC members and subscribers, host Ken Miller welcomes back John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED). They delve into crucial questions posed by our virtual audience and listeners, tackling topics like the challenges of procurement deficits, escalating tensions in the Middle East, and the global lessons emerging from the War in Ukraine. The discussion also addresses a critical concern with Doctrine, Organization, Training, Material, Leadership, Personnel, and Facilities (DOTMLPF). John provides expert insights into this pressing issue and previews upcoming feature articles in JED that explore these themes in depth.To hear this episode in its entirety, click here.

In this episode of From the Crow's Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by CX2 co-founders Nathan Mintz and Porter Smith to discuss the changing role of electronic warfare in international conflicts.The conversation focuses on the role of EW in conflicts in the Middle East, as well as with the Russo-Ukrainian War. The founders discuss the implications of developing autonomous systems and the increased complexity of modern conflicts driven by a network of inexpensive, expendable assets such as kamikaze drones. Nathan and Porter alsoexplore the challenges and prospects of maintaining spectrum dominance, the integration of commercial development practices into defense technologies, and the necessity for agile, responsive innovation in military procurement and system development. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.