On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored in part by Hanwha Defense USA, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Cavas Ships podcast co-host Chris Servello, and Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the US presidential race as it enters its last week, the world awaits Israel’s strike on Iran as Secretary of State Antony Blinken makes his 11th trip to the Middle East to broker a ceasefire, the White House issues new national security AI guidance, Europe worries about North Korea troops fighting on Russia’s behalf against Ukraine, a progress report on Germany’s Zeitenwender and whether Europe can support Ukraine if America under a second Trump term withdraws support for Kyiv, Chinese Premier Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meet for the first time since the bloody 2019 clash between the nations in the Himalayas after Canada again accused India of targeting and killing Canadian nationals critical of the New Delhi government — a charge endorsed by Washington — Japanese elections over the weekend, and the decision by the Washington Post and the LA Times against endorsing a presidential candidate over reprisal fears.

In February, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Dave Allvin gave us the details on the service’s re-optimization plans in an exclusive interview. This week, the Chief released a letter to the entire service detailing progress toward that goal. Vago and J.J. review where the service is and how much lies ahead. Plus the week’s headlines in airpower. All powered by GE!

Mackenzie Eaglen and Todd Harrison of the American Enterprise Institute, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the US defense budget outlook in the near and mid term, investment in weaponry that continues to lag even as stocks are rapidly depleted through American support for Ukraine and Israel, China’s actual defense spending levels what why it should spur more alarm and action, the need for greater innovation and industrial base capacity, how the election outcome could reshape US alliances as well as interest in American weaponry, and whether Congress will approve enough additional funding to cover the costs of modernizing the nation’s antiquated nuclear triad that will otherwise gut investment in conventional capabilities.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Kathleen McInnis, the director of the Smart Women, Smart Power program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the new report she co-authored with Alexis Day — What Difference Does it Make? — that delves into the role of women in international security decision making.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss how different the defense industrial base could look by 2030; takeaways from AeroLambda Group’s Aerospace & Defense Conference and the Association of the United States Army’s annual meeting last week; how heritage companies are adapting to better compete against new competitors; what DoD has to do to align its ambitious operational plans with the reality that it’s industrial base lacks the capacity for a prolonged high-intensity conflict whether for new production, munitions or damage repair; Boeing’s outlook at major defense and aerospace firms prepare to report earnings; and a look at the week ahead.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy join host Vago Muradian to discuss Wall Street’s sixth straight winning week; Boeing and machinists strike proposed deal that includes a 35 percent pay raise to end 5-week strike as the jetmaker moves to raise $25 billion in debt and stock plus borrow $10 billion; Bell decides to move V-280 Valor aerostructure work in house from Spirit AeroSystems; impact of the move what Boeing would pay for its former subsidiary; Airbus to cut 2,500 jobs from its defense and space business; partnership between L3 Harris and Embraer to jointly market the KC390 ends; L3 protests US Army’s decision to award the HADES contract to Sierra Nevada; another multiyear to Sikorsky carrying UH-60 Blackhawk production through 2032; France bars Israeli companies from the upcoming Euronaval trade show in Paris; takeaways from the Association of the United States Army’s annual meeting and The Aerospace Event; and what to expect next week at the National Business Aviation Association tradeshow in Las Vegas.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored in part by Hanwha Defense USA, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, Dr. Kathleen McInnis of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and Cavas Ships podcast co-host Chris Servello join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the expectation the National Defense Authorization Act, appropriations and disaster relief legislation will move quickly after lawmakers return to Washington after the election; Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s “heartburn letter”to the Hill; Israel kills Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar; President Biden deploys America’s premier air and missile defense system to Israel to relieve pressure on US warships guarding Israel while calling on Jerusalem to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza otherwise risk weapons deliveries; the US Navy demonstrates its ability to reload weapons at sea; US aircraft including B-2 stealth bombers strike Houthi missile sites and storage facilities in Yemen; former President Trump calls Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy a great salesman who never should have let the war start as the Ukrainian leader says he told the former president that either Kyiv joins NATO or it develops nuclear weapons; South Korean intelligence says North Korea is deploying 12,000 troops to fight for Russia in Ukraine; four Indo-Pacific defense ministers join NATO ministers; and China’s economy sputters as Beijing escalates tensions around Taiwan.

We review The Aerospace Event with two of our fellow presenters there – Richard Aboulafia, who you know from our business report, and Dr. Kevin Michaels, both managing directors at AeroDynamic Advisory. And we have the week’s headlines in airpower. All powered by GE!

On this Land Warfare episode, sponsored by American Rheinmetall, Dan Roper, a retired US army colonel who’s the director of national security studies at the Association of the United States Army reviews the key takes from this week's AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition; and Stephanie Meyer, a PHD candidate who’s helping lead Auburn university’s entry into Indy autonomous challenge — a 12-team unmanned racing circuit that is developing cutting edge technologies that can improve future unmanned air and ground vehicles with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this Land Warfare episode, sponsored by American Rheinmetall, Dr. John Nagl, a retired US Army lieutenant colonel who is now a professor of Warfighting Studies in the Department of Military Strategy, Planning, and Operations at the Army War College, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the work he co-authored with Katie Crombe — A Call to Action: Lessons from Ukraine for the Future Force — the strategic, operational and tactical lessons of the war; lessons that are applicable to Europe, the Indo-Pacific and universally; the notion of transparency on the battlefield and its implications for operations; harnessing rapid innovation cycles and fielding capabilities at speed and scale; role of the Army in Europe and the Indo-Pacific; and how the Ukraine war ends.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest headlines and looks at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy join host Vago Muradian to discuss Wall Street’s new highs on stronger than expected bank and financial earnings; Boeing pre-reports third quarter earnings including a $3 billion charge, 17,000 layoffs, the end of 767 freighter production, and delayed 777X deliveries as the company accuses the International Association of Machinists of negotiating in bad faith, a charge the union makes about the jetmaker; Airbus blames CFM and Spirit AeroSystems for its woes; France announces the new F5 version of the Dassault Aviation’s Rafale and the a combat unmanned vehicle; the Justice Department accuses Saab of corruption in Brazil; and what to expect at the Association of the United States Army’s annual conference and tradeshow as well as The Aerospace Event.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored in part by Hanwha Defense USA, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Venter for Strategic and International Studies join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss President Biden’s call for Congress to approve emergency aid in the wake of two devastating and deadly hurricanes; electoral impact of historic amounts of disinformation that have hampered rescue and recovery efforts; update on Russia’s war on Ukraine as as Moscow makes incremental progress as Russian casualties top 600,000; Ukraine’s efforts to stockpile ammunition and protect itself from US election outcome next month; Laos hosts ASEAN; Beijing overreacts despite a measured address by Lai Ching-te on Taiwan’s National Day; Vice President Harris names Iran as a leading threat; Israel Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu calls on Lebanon to rid itself of Hezbollah as Israel continues operations in Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank, as Jerusalem considers retaliation against Iran’s recent missile attack that’s expected to target the country’s oil infrastructure.

As the People’s Republic of China celebrates 75 years as a nation, its military capability and territorial ambitions continue to expand. Dr. Brendan Mulvaney, Director of the China Aerospace Studies Institute at National Defense University, updates us on what that means for their challenge to US air capabilities. And we have a bumper crop of airpower headlines, including about the SR-71. All powered by GE!

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Jerry McGinn, the director of the Baroni Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss his new report — “Before the Balloon Goes Up: Mobilizing the Defense Industrial Base now to Prepare for Future Conflict” — why he believes the United States isn’t prepared for prolonged future conflicts; industrial lessons from World War II, MRAP vehicles, Covid-19, and the Ukraine war; the importance of senior leadership in driving change; why 2024 is different than 1938; what America has to do to step up its production capacity; how to harness commercial industry for the challenge ahead; role of allies and partners; and an update on the Biden administration’s first ever National Defense Industrial Strategy.

On this Land Warfare episode, sponsored by American Rheinmetall, Gen. Randy George, the US Army’s 41st chief of staff, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the biggest lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine; the problems that Russia, China and other adversaries are posing that must be solved; whether different armies are needed to fight in Europe and Asia, and what’s common between them; preparing the force intellectually, operationally, doctrinally and culturally for the highly kinetic nature of a possible future fight; how to move faster to field needed capabilities at scale; modernizing on a flat budget; his “Transforming in Contact” initiative and how much of the Army has to change to transform the force; the changing nature of advantage and building a culture that can adapt rapidly to maintain advantage despite changing threats; what the Army needs from industry; tradeoffs that can be made among the military services to better coordinate roles, missions and capabilities; recruiting and training the right personnel; and a look ahead to the Association of the United States Army’s annual conference and tradeshow Oct. 14-16, 2024.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s withdrawal from Vuledhar and the implications of the latest Russian advance in Donbas, the latest on the war including the capture of one of Russia’s few Okhotnik combat drones, how weather will change the fight, topics for discussion at the Association of the United States Army’s conference and tradeshow next week, and lessons from analytical failures associated with the Russo-Ukrainian war; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses defense implications of the conflict between Israel and Iran one the first anniversary of Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel that precipitated a broader regional war, defense and industrials scenarios to consider as US elections approach, Army issues to consider at AUSA, the impact of deadly hurricanes on public perceptions of defense spending, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy join host Vago Muradian Wall Street ends on a high on stronger than expected US jobs growth, French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron tells US financiers how grave the country’s financial situation is, Xi Jinping announces a major government stimulus plan as the People’s Republic of China celebrates its 75th anniversary, Boeing’s strike continues as the company’s management considers the scope of an equity raise and questions arise about the valuation of the planned acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, and as Iran strikes Israel with history’s largest ballistic missile attack, some thoughts on the economics of air and missile defense.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored in part by Hanwha Defense USA, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Cavas Ships co-host Chris Servello, and Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the US presidential race enters its last month as a devastating hurricane and growing unrest in the Middle East could decide who ends up in the White House, Israel killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Iran retaliates with a massive ballistic missile barrage, Jerusalem vows retaliation and President Biden confirms strikes on Iran’s energy facilities have been discussed in a move that sends oil prices soaring, former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte succeeds Jens Stoltenberg as NATO’s new secretary general, Ukraine retreats from Vuledhar as Russia’s strategy of throwing of men and weapons into fight helps gain ground in Donbas, the People’s Republic of China celebrates its 75th anniversary by dialing up coercion in the South China Sea, and Shigeru Ishiba succeed Fumio Kishida as Japan’s 65th prime minister.

If it goes up in the air and especially if it goes fast, former Director of Defense Research and Engineering and Air Force chief scientist Dr. Mark Lewis has been deep in the details. He joins us to update the latest technologies on and coming to the battlefield, including a great primer on hypersonics. And we have this week’s headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

Mike Smith, the president and CEO of Hanwha Defense USA, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the company’s sweep of products, approach to expanding in the US market, it’s investment strategy for growth including $100 million acquisition of a Philadelphia shipyard, key to driving innovation the innovation and capacity gains the Pentagon seeks, lessons from his tenure at BAE Systems on growing a US subsidiary of a foreign company in the United States, where he expects from the company in 10 years and at the Association of the United States Army’s upcoming conference and tradeshow.

Dan Tenney, the vice president for strategy and business development at Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss lessons from the Ukraine war that are shaping his $16 billion enterprise; the capabilities the US Army needs to counter China, Russia and other threats; the keys to scaling hardware and software; supporting to nations increasingly seeking sovereign capabilities; competing in a market where the Pentagon is increasingly rewarding innovative firms that invest to more economically develop products that address military needs; and whether DoD clearly understands the big problems it needs to solve.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies discusses what’s next now that Israel has killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and other of the Lebanese Shia militia’s top commanders as well as truck Houthi targets in Yemen; how the moves could help deter Tehran from further provocations; and challenges associated with impending Israeli ground operations in Southern Lebanon; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the broader investment implications of continuing unrest in the Middle East; broader geoeconomic and geopolitical takeaways from the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Forum in New York last week, including Russia’s improving if more expensive defense capabilities and that the US-China relationship is “stabilizing,” and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy join host Vago Muradian discuss Wall Street sets another record on sinking inflation and more Fed rate cuts; Boeing’s strike continues as questions aspire about CEO Kelly Ortberg’s leadership; the National Transportation Safety Board recommends action on Boeing 737 jetliners after a recent rudder incident on a United Airlines flight; HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding discovered and reported to the Navy that one of its workers had “knowingly” made defective welds in submarines and aircraft carriers, although not in critical areas; suddenly blended-wing-body aircraft have become all the rage as the COP29 climate summit prepares to convene Nov. 11-22 in Azerbaijan; President Biden’s denial of permission for Western nations to allow Ukraine to use donated weapons against Russia; budget challenges across Europe; and a far right win in Austria.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored in part by Hanwha Defense USA, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian discuss House Speaker Mike Johnson’s bipartisan approach to securing a stopgap spending measure to keep the government funded until after the election; what’s on the lame duck agenda; despite pressure from closest allies and Ukraine’s leader President Biden continues to block use of Western weapons against Russia after Vladimir Putin’s latest nuclear threats; the message other nuclear-armed states are learning when Washington is so easily deterred by nuclear saber-rattling; China tests an ICBM as its first in class nuclear attack submarine sinks pierside; AUKUS Pillar 2; Israel expands its offensive against Hezbollah and Lebanon while also increasing operations in the West Bank; and analysis of a close US presidential race five weeks before Election Day.

We’ve been talking a lot about the USAF recently, so it’s time for some naval contemplation. Longtime F-14 RIO Cdr. Ward Carroll joins us to talk Naval Aviation, including its future and current air and missile defense ops. Dr. Tom Karako of CSIS brings us up to date on other air and missile defense news. And we have headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

On this week’s Technology Report, John Cofrancesco, the founder of the new artificial intelligence firm Applied AI Company, discusses takeaways from the congressional hearing with CrowdStrike executives on the recent software update error from the cyber security firm that precipitated global disruptions, the role of AI to make to avert such mistakes in the future, how the Pentagon’s AI ecosystem is evolving and the key to driving innovation, supply chain lessons in the wake of Israel’s use of global supply chains to produce exploding pagers and walkie talkies, countering spoofing of critical control systems including on commercial aircraft, and helping foster a new generation of more cyber and AI savvy legislators and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Amb. John Herbst, a former US ambassador to both Uzbekistan and Ukraine who is now the senior director of the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington to convince President Biden to allow Western weapons to be used against targets in Russia, the Biden administration’s logic in blocking the use of weapons against sites used by Moscow to attack Ukraine, why US forbearance is merely emboldening Vladimir Putin, why it’s vital Ukraine wins the war and what’s needed to achieve that aim, how America and its allies need to do to better deter Russia, the need for a strategy to counter Russia, China, Iran and North Korea, whether Europe can support Ukraine if US leaders decide against further assistance, and how much longer the conflict is likely to continue.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s long-range attack on Russia’s ammunition depot at Toropets destroying months worth of artillery shells and other weapons; President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington to ask President Biden to reconsider his opposition to the use of Western weapons against Russia; and how both sides are rapidly adapting unmanned systems and defenses; Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the budget outlook as House Speaker Mike Johnson seeks to fund the government beyond Sept. 30; takeaways from the Air and Space Forces Association’s Air Space Cyber conference and tradeshow last week; the outlook for the Air Force’s flagship manned fighter element of the Next-Generation Air Dominance family of systems that is being reconsidered by the service’s leadership; changing industrial and threat dynamics; and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy join host Vago Muradian discuss another big week on Wall Street after a larger than expected Federal Reserve rate cut; the industrial impact of President Biden’s decision to use US arms export regulations to veto Britain and France’s desire to allow Ukraine to use their weapons against Russia; with Boeing machinists on strike, CEO Kelly Ortberg initiates a furlough plan suggesting a longer work stoppage; news report that Ted Colbert will be replaced by Steve Parker at Boeing Defense Space and Security; China Development Bank’s order 80 Airbus A320 and 50 Boeing Max jets; duration of strike by workers at Textron’s Cessna and Hawker; the US Army picks Anduril’s Ghost X and Performance Drone Works’ C-100 as the service’s company-level “attritable” drone; Rob Dewar, father of the Bombardier C series, joins JetZero; outlook for the penetrating counter air element of the US Air Force’s Next-Generation Air Dominance family of programs in the wake of the Air and Space Forces Association’s annual Air Space Cyber conference last week and possible substitutes for the high-end manned fighter; what a new USAF plan means for the UK-Italy-Japan Global Combat Aircraft Program or the SCAP effort involving France, Germany and Spain; the USAF’s request for information for a next-generation tanker; the credit rating implications of a lengthy Boeing strike; and the Boeing-Embraer agreement after the American company called off its union with the Brazilian firm.

On this week's Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian discuss Congress' failure to pass a measure to keep government open after 30 Sept., Ukraine continues to call for Western arms to be cleared for use against Russia as President Biden stalls approvals as Russian forces push back in Kursk and threaten to make significant gains in Donbas, the leaders of the Quad prepare to convene in Delaware as China expands its offensive operations to Australia and Japan, the White House prepares to block Nippon Steel's offer to buy US Steel, AUKUS celebrates its second birthday, and Israel uses exploding pagers and walkie-talkies to stymie Hezbollah's command and control as the Lebanese militia and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps vow retaliation.

We spent three days at the Air and Space Forces Association conference. What did we learn? We review the biggest airpower event of the year with John Tirpak of Air and Space Forces magazine and Dean David Deptula of the Mitchell Institute. Plus we catch up on CCAs and the F-35 with Matt Milas, President of Defense and Space at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. And airpower headlines beyond AFA. Powered by GE!

On this innovation conversation to highlight key topics in the countdown to the Apex technology and innovation conference next January in Washington, sponsored by Clarion Defence, Raj Shah, the former director of the Defense Innovation Unit who is a cofounder of Shield Capital, and Dr. Chris Kirchhoff, the former director of strategic planning at the National Security Council during the Obama administration who founded the Pentagon’s Silicon Valley office, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss their new book — Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley are Transforming the Future of War — their concern the United States isn’t ready for a new era of warfare, the most important lessons from the Ukraine war, whether the Pentagon has identified the big problems it needs to solve to prevail in wars against China and Russia, the importance of presidential leadership in driving change across DoD, progress since DIU was founded, the venture capital environment, and role of allies and partners. To learn more about the Apex conference, sponsorship and attendance opportunities please visit apexdefense.org

Adm. Mike Rogers, USN Ret., a former director of the National Security Agency and commander of US Cyber Command who is now the chairman of the advisory board of cybersecurity firm Claroty, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the recent revelation that Chinese hackers have for the first time taken the provocative step of installing malware in key US infrastructure; how Washington must respond to restore deterrence, the range of actions the Biden administration should consider including a targeted cyber operations to damage the Chinese economy; actions Congress should take to curb Chinese access to US technology and networks; countering the growing coordination among China, Russia, Iran and North Korea; increasingly sophisticated Russian efforts to undermine US elections; and why creating an independent cyber force is a bad idea.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the potential impact of the “Future of European Competitiveness” report drafted by former Italian prime minister and European Central Bank President Dr. Mario Draghi on behalf of the European Union; takeaways from the Chamber of Commerce’s Aerospace Summit, the Future of Defense event by New America and Arizona State University, and Morgan Stanley’s Laguna conference including analysis of Northrop Grumman CEO Kathy Warden’s comments that the company could reenter the stealthy fighter element of the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance effort if the service makes requirements changes; what to expect at the Air and Space Forces Association’s Air Space Cyber conference and tradeshow Sept. 16-18; and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy join host Vago Muradian discuss Wall Street’s best week of the year as Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell announces roadmap to cut short-term borrowing rates; Boeing’s International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers overwhelmingly vote to strike; analysis of the market prospects for the innovative RISE engine developed by GE and Safran through their CFM partnership that just celebrated its 50th anniversary; Northrop Grumman CEO Kathy Warden says that the company is willing reenter the Air Force’s Penetrating Counter-Air program as service leaders reconsider the requirements for the key element of the Next Generation Air Dominance effort; Netherlands is buying six more F-35 fighters; the dual between Lockheed Martin’s C-130 and Embraer’s KC-390 transports; and what to expect at the Air and Space Forces’ Association’s annual Air Space Cyber conference next week.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored in part by Hanwha Defense USA, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss congressional madness as lawmakers return to Washington, Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville delays promotion of new US Army Pacific commander, the national security implications of the fiery presidential debate between vice president Kamala Harris and former President Trump, President Biden to allow Ukraine to use US weapons against Russian territory as Vladimir Putin again threatens the alliance, Asia’s focus on US-China shadowboxing amid the US election as Kim Jung Un reveals his top secret uranium enrichment plant and calls for accelerating nuclear weapons production, and the controversy over Israel’s killing of an American peace protestor and more UN humanitarian workers.

The US Air Force is conducting simultaneous, ambitious programs to build aircraft, missiles, and other systems, all while reoptimizing for great power competition. The head of Air Force Materiel Command, General Duke Richardson, gets into the details, including Sentinel news. And the week’s headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

On this month’s innovation conversation to highlight key topics in the countdown to the Apex technology and innovation conference next January in Washington, sponsored by Clarion Defence, Greg Allen, the director of the Wadhwani Center for AI and Advanced Technology at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and Doug Berenson, a partner in the Aerospace, Defense and Government Services Practice at the Oliver Wyman consultancy, to discuss their commentary — “Why Is the U.S. Defense Industrial Base So Isolated from the U.S. Economy?” — the historic benefits of having a unitary national industrial base; how the defense industry became increasingly isolated from commercial industry and its implications on innovation, competition as well as scaling production;  how the US government can attract more commercial firms to the fold; importance of presidential leadership and the government making clear the big military problems it needs to solve to spur industry to find solutions; the challenges faced by the current innovation ecosystem; and the need to tap allied industrial capacity. To learn more about the Ap ex conference, sponsorship and attendance opportunities please visit apexdefense.org

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Amb. Mohammed Siad Doualeh, Djibouti’s ambassador to the United States as well as the country’s representative to the United Nations, discusses key issues that need to be addressed by world leaders when the United Nations General Assembly convenes in New York, whether the worst famine in four decades can be averted because of ongoing conflict in Sudan, how to address Houthi attacks in the Red Sea that have precipitated a drop in commercial traffic through the key waterway and threaten ecological disaster as ships are damaged and sunk, a survey of regional crises and progress made over the past year, how regional conflict and instability is driving global migration, combatting mpox now that the World Health Organization has declared the virus a public health emergency of international concern in the wake of an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, countering Russian and Chinese dis- and misinformation, and advice on how the two US presidential candidates and campaigns should think of Africa through Election Day and beyond with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses mounting Russian pressure on Ukrainian forces in Pokrovsk and Chasiv Yar, the strategic importance of the two to Russian planes to gain ground in Donbas, Ukraine’s ability to stymie Moscow’s plans, Kyiv’s latest call to use Western arms against Russia, and the stability of Vladimir Putin’s regime as Ukrainian forces seize more ground in Kursk; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses “the surprises” from the Russo-Ukrainian war, how the US is countering Chinese economic coersion, Boeing’s importance for broader US industrial health and competitiveness, an analysis of the economic and tax policies of the two presidential candidates, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy join host Vago Muradian discuss a down week on Wall Street ending in a hard sell off; Airbus and Embraer release their order and delivery figures; Pentagon acquisition and sustainment undersecretary Dr. Bill LaPlante’s decision to rescind a key approval for the the Milestone B approval of the US Air Force’s Sentinel Next Generation Strategic Deterrent program led by Northrop Grumman; the European Air Safety Agency has ordered inspections of Rolls Royce engines on Airbus 350-1000 jets after a fire on a Cathay Pacific airliner; Boeing’s unionized workers will vote Sept. 12 on whether to strike; the Air Force will buy from Boeing more of Leonardo’s MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopters; NASA prepares to return the Boeing’s StarLiner spacecraft to earth; with the Pentagon’s decision to extend the lifespan of the F-35 Lightning II fighter program from 2077 to 2088, the total program cost is up to $2 trillion even as unit prices for the jets are coming down; Philippine’s interest in 40 new combat aircraft.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss what to expect from Congress when they return to DC for 13 days before recessing for the election; update on presidential, Senate and House races with only nine weeks left to Election Day; whether Ukraine’s Kursk offensive will prove a costly miscalculation as Russia advances on Donbas; Volodymyr Zelenskyy prepares to shuffle his cabinet as Kyiv continues to lobby Washington and its allies to allow use of Western weapons against Russia; the US government alleges Russian and Chinese interference in American politics; takeaways from National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan’s Beijing visit as a Chinese ship again collides with a Filipino one; and Bibi Netanyahu brushes aside mass protests demanding as well as what’s said to be the final US-Egypt-Qatar proposal to end of the Gaza war.

DoD’s Replicator initiative has been something of an enigma from the start. Veteran analyst Dr. Ted Harshberger joins us to explain where Replicator is now, what comes next, and how (or if) it fits with NGAD. Plus a 1985 munition proposal you never heard of. And, of course, we have headlines in airpower, all thanks to GE!

Eric Fanning, the president and CEO of the Aerospace Industries Association, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the defense budget outlook as Congress returns to Washington briefly before recessing until after the election, other defense and aerospace legislative priorities for the association, how the presidential candidates would impact the US defense and aerospace industrial base, priority investment areas to grow US capabilities, the impact of the Biden administration’s first ever industrial policy and PPBE reforms, and more.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest headlines and looks at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy join host Vago Muradian discuss Wall Street ended the week strong before the Labor Day holiday, the US government hits RTX with a $200 million fine for improperly sharing technology with China as analysts ask whether more companies will also be penalized, Serbia orders Rafale fighters by Dassault Aviation while Thailand opts for the E- and F-model of the Gripen by Saab, whey Airbus and Sikorsky both decided against bidding for a UK helicopter contract, UK defense budget outlook as Starmer government makes clear cuts are coming, Britain and Germany strike a wide-ranging treaty that spans defense, science, technology and deeper economic cooperation, defense industrial implications as Germany’s right wing AFD party gains ground in Thuringia, and Britain concludes arms being used by Israel in Gaza could be used in violation of international humanitarian law, immediately suspending 30 licenses for components for fighter planes, helicopters and drones.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral and former INDOPACOM J-3 who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend now with the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss a US presidential campaign in full swing, controversy over former President Trump’s campaign visit to Arlington Cemetery, Ukraine continues its advance into Russia as analysts say Moscow lacks the people or equipment to stop it, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan’s visit to Beijing as China is accused of stealing US internet service provider data and Indo-Pacific Commander Adm. Sam Paparo says US ships might have to escort Filipino ships being bullied by Chinese forces, the US Navy awards Korea’s Hanwha Ocean a contract to repair a US logistics support ship, and Middle East tensions soar as Israel launches air strikes in the West Bank as Jerusalem agrees to suspend Gaza strikes to allow a UN emergency vaccination drive after the first polio case in a generation was detected in the enclave.

The Collaborative Combat Aircraft promises to redefine how the U.S. Air Force flies and fights. But what is it, and how do we get from here to there? The author of a new report on CCAs, Gregory Allen, director of the Wadhwani Center for AI and Advanced Technology at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, join us with some of the answers. And of course, we have headlines in airpower. Thanks, GE!

Bill Lynn, former deputy defense secretary and current Leonardo DRS Chairman and CEO, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the budget outlook, growth markets in a tight budget environment, how the two presidential candidates would impact defense spending if elected, the impact of the Biden administration’s first ever defense industrial strategy, whether long-running reform efforts are changing how the Pentagon does business, how the company decides what to make in house and what to buy from suppliers as analysts suggest that vertical integration is increasingly key to accelerating programs and better controlling cost, how the Pentagon will regard industry for their investment as companies like Anduril raise private capital to develop weapons for the Pentagon, and a status report on Leonardo DRS as the second anniversary of it’s December 2022 listing approaches.

Todd Harrison of the American Enterprise Institute joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the budget outlook as Congress prepares to return to DC early next month, the Pentagon’s innovation efforts, why vertical integration will be increasingly important for Pentagon contractors, Anduril’s growth strategy, and why former President Trump’s endorsement of a Space National Guard is a bad idea.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discusses his takeaways from the Democratic National Convention and compares national security messaging from both parties presidential campaigns, a growing sense that the Russo-Ukrainian war is approaching stalemate in 2025, his latest essay “The Four Rungs on the Defense Wall of Worry,” and a look at the week ahead.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s statement that the central bank would cut interest rates by half a percent especially after employment figures were adjusted downward; Sierra Nevada wins the US Army’s High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System or HADES spyplane contract; Boeing sells 36 new AH-64 helicopters to South Korea, but the company’s 777X jetliner is grounded after the company discovered a structural issue that will be expensive to fix; the last of 23 VH-92 helicopters were delivered to the Marine Corps by Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky as the president’s new helicopter, but it can’t replace aging Blackhawks and Sea Kings until the new aircraft is cleared to land on the White House lawn; companies like Bell that selected Spirit AeroSystems for defense aerostructures work are said to be considering ending those contracts after Boeing buys its former unit; and NASA decides two astronauts stuck in space since their Boeing StarLiner experienced problems on its maiden flight to the International Space Station will return to earth aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft in February.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Cavas Ships co-host Chris Servello, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian discuss takeaways from the Democratic convention that nominated Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as the party’s candidates for president and vice president; national security themes from Chicago; Ukraine’s offensive into Russia continues as Russian forces gain ground in Donbas; Beijing protests senior US officials meeting with the Dalai Lama; Chinese and Philippine ships collide in the South China Sea; the Gaza war continues as hopes of a ceasefire fade; Iran wavers on attacking Israel; and top Israel security leaders warn that Jewish extremists represent an existential threat to Israel.

Modernization, low reenlistment, recruitment challenges, and re-orienting a force for great power competition aren’t just concerns for the active Air Force. We’ll talk these issues and more with the Chief of the Air Force Reserve, Lieutenant General John Healy. And of course, the week’s top headlines in airpower. All powered by GE!

James Chew, the global group director for aerospace and defense at Cadence Design Systems who also is the chair of the National Defense Industrial Association’s Science and Engineering Technology Division, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss how DoD can better harness commercial innovation for military needs, the key to greater agility, making tradeoffs to field systems at the speed of relevance at affordable cost, impact of microelectronics investment and where else the government needs to invest to bolster US industrial capacity, and whether efforts to throttle adversary nations like China can succeed.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Darrell Bricker, the CEO of Ipsos Public Affairs who also advises on the agenda at the annual Halifax International Security Forum in Nova Scotia every November, discusses the latest polling in the US presidential race, top issues for voters and where national security ranks among their concerns, notion of immigration as a national security issue, how public perceptions can shape more thoughtful immigration policies, impact of vice presidential choices on race, impact of the Gaza war on Democrats and how unruly pro-Palestinian demonstrations could undermine Harris’ tough on crime image, perceptions of Israel in the wake of the Gaza war, global security concerns, perceptions of Russia and Ukraine as the war grinds on, and an update on right wing as well as populist movements worldwide with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Eugene Rumer of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace discuss Ukraine’s continuing invasion that’s seized more than 1,000 square kilometers in Russia’s Kursk region, Moscow’s inability to stop Ukraine’s advance, how Vladimir Putin will respond, and whether Kyiv’s gambit will change the vector of the conflict; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses a draft paper by Arizona State University’s Hendrik Bessembinder — Which Stocks Generated the Highest Long-Term Returns — over the past century, Rheinmetall’s proposed $950 million acquisition of Loc Performance, Boeing’s big week for F-15 fighters as well as AH-64 helicopters and E-7 radar planes, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss Wall Street’s strongest strongest run in nine months on a brighter US economic forecast after lower than expected inflation; a big week for Boeing as Israel orders 50 new F-15 Eagle II fighters with plans to refurbish 25 older model jets, Poland commits to buying 96 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, and the US Air Force puts the E-7 radar plane under a development contract; coming off record earnings, Rheinmetall proposes the $950 million acquisition of Loc Performance, a Michigan based engineering company with a role on key US Army’s vehicle programs as well as agricultural and construction equipment; the Global Business Travel Association says that business travel won’t return to pre pandemic levels until 2027; and Ukraine’s widening invasion of Russia.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian discuss a US presidential race that continues to tighten as Democrats will gather next week in Chicago for their nominating convention, Harris’ and former President Trump’s national security views, Ukrainian forces’ depending attack into Russia, the State Department’s export control exemptions to realize the AUKUS partnership for new nuclear attack submarines or other technologies, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s decision to step down at the end of the month, US-Japan-Korea relations deepen as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol proposes a new North Korea policy, Israel steps up operations in Gaza compounding the humanitarian crisis in the enclave as Iran and its proxies continue to deliberate on how to respond to Israel’s recent assassination of top Hamas and Hezbollah leaders as Israel redraws the West Bank to permanently preclude a possible future Palestinian state.

The F-15EX Eagle II isn’t your (grand) father’s fighter. It’s in demand around the world. We’ll find out all about it – and hints of things to come -- from Mark Sears, Boeing’s VP of Fighters, and Rob Novotny, their Director of Business Development for Fighters. And we have the week’s top headlines in airpower. All powered by GE!

On this month’s innovation conversation to highlight key topics in the countdown to the Apex technology and innovation conference next January in Washington, sponsored by Clarion Defence, Dan Fata, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO during the Bush administration who is now the principal at the Fata Advisory consultancy, and Miles Taylor, the former chief of staff at the department of homeland security who is now with the new technology advisory firm Washington Office, discuss the new DC chapter of the Capital Factory in Austin — Station DC — that aims to become the nexus of the technology ecosystem in Washington, the importance of bringing together the entire tech community from small firms to heritage primes and everything in between, Station DC’s role in bringing together industry, the Pentagon as well as lawmakers, the bottlenecks innovative firms see as impediments to progress and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian. To learn more about the Apex conference, sponsorship and attendance opportunities please visit apexdefense.org

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the executive director of the Cyber Solarium 2.0 project, discusses his recent participation in a wargame in Taiwan that explored how China can economically coerce the island democracy in ways below the threshold for a US response, how Washington and its allies need to rethink their approach to Beijing’s novel techniques to undermine Taiwan and other regional governments, efforts to better bring together Indo-Pacific and European allies toe better deter China, whether US efforts to bolster its warfighting capabilities are making progress quickly enough to continue deterring Beijing, and the role of US Air Force B-2 bombers in the recent sinking of a decommissioned amphibious assault ship and the need for more and longer-range anti-ship weapons with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Eugene Rumer of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace discuss Ukraine’s offensive into Russia’s Kursk region; whether the risks of the operations are worth the rewards; how Moscow will respond; and what to expect from the Army 2024 arms show; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses takeaways from the National Defense Industrial Association’s Emerging Technologies conference last week; Anduril’s move to raise $1.5 billion for a giant new production facility for large-scale unmanned systems production; prospects for a wider regional war as Iran considering attacking Israel after Jerusalem assassinated key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders; Ukraine’s attack into Russia; polling in US presidential race and Vice President Harris’ national security stance; and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss world markets rocked by Japan’s biggest stock plunge since 1987; Boeing’s new CEO Kelly Ortberg tells employees he and his team will be walking factory floors — and does so on Day One at the company’s helm; NASA suggests that two astronauts launched on Boeing’s StarLiner spacecraft in June might have to be recovered by SpaceX next February; Rheinmetall posts record-breaking sales; Anduril raises $1.5 billion to “rebuild the arsenal of democracy” by “hyperscale” hiring, investment and facilities for new weapons production; a Voepass airlines ATR 72 regional turboprop crashed outside Sao Paolo killing all 62 aboard; British Airways and Virgin have both suspended flights to China; and Joby Aviation claims it will start commercial air taxi services in Dubai next year.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian discuss Vice President Harris’ decision to tap Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate as the Democratic ticket gains ground on former President Trump and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance; Ukraine launches an offensive into Russia; the leaders of the United States, Egypt and Qatar call on Israel and Gaza to strike a ceasefire that would release hostages and end bloodshed in the devastated Palestinian enclave; Australia and America deepen their already deep partnership; Norway joins a US carrier deployment in the Pacific; Germany joins the UN Command policing the inter-Korean border; and Pentagon acquisition and sustainment chief Bill LaPlante is seeking weapons cooperation across the Indo-Pacific.

It’s been a very busy few weeks in airpower, with a new blue-ribbon panel to reconsider NGAD and NGAS, FLRAA going into full scale development, F-16s arriving in Ukraine, and much more. Aviation Week defense editor Steve Trimble helps make sense of it all, including the top headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

Justin Sherman, the founder of Global Cyber Strategies advisory firm and nonresident fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Cyber Statecraft Initiative, discusses the new report he authored — “Russia’s Digital Tech Isolationism: Domestic Innovation, Digital Fragmentation, and the Kremlin’s Push to Replace Western Digital Technology” — how Moscow uses its digital technology for global advantage, impact of sanctions that have driven a rise in domestic capability and greater partnership and reliance on China, the global market for Russian and Chinese digital technologies among nations that want to operate outside US and Western sanctions, how to counter Russian dis and misinformation, and outlook for social media regulation in Washington with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dmitri Alperovich, the chairman of Silverado Policy Accelerator think tank who co-founded the cyber security giant CrowdStrike , discusses the new book he coauthored with Garrett Graff — “World on the Brink: How America Can Beat China in the Race for the Twenty-First Century.” — similarities and lessons from the West’s Cold War competition with the Soviet Union, why China is more vulnerable than the Soviet Union and how the West can win the contest, how best to cooperate with Beijing, and a report card on US efforts to improve cyber security with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Eugene Rumer of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace discuss last week’s deal that saw Russia exchange innocent Americans and Russian activists for Russian assassins, spies and hackers, and whether the deal will prompt Moscow to take more hostages in the future; update on the Ukraine war and growing worries that Kyiv is losing the conflict and if so, what Western nations can do to change the battlefield dynamic; a new Duma law that prohibits soldiers from using their personal electronic devices on the front; and how Vice President Harris and those around her regard Russia, Ukraine and NATO; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the sharp market drop on Aug. 5, 2024, and how global worries impacted defense and aerospace equities; a look at Boeing’s results last week and news that Kelly Ortberg will succeed Dave Calhoun as the giant’s CEO; defense budget prospects as Senate appropriators cleared 11 of 12 spending bills before leaving town for August; prospect of a wider Middle East war war as Iran vows retaliation after Israel assassinated top Hezbollah and Hamas leaders, including one in Tehran; and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss Wall Street meltdown on a sharper than expected drop in new jobs even as the Federal Reserve said rate cuts are imminent; Boeing taps one of the industry host highly regarded retirees — former Collins CEO Kelly Ortberg — as its new chief executive as the company also reports dismal earnings and needs to raise capital; Airbus, BAE Systems, MTU, and Rolls-Royce also report earnings; and the Air Force says still going to develop a new, six-generation manned fighter even as it rethinks the penetrating counter air portion of the Next-Generation Air Dominance program.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the Senate’s mark up of four appropriations bills including defense; the decision to exchange Russian killers, spies and thugs to free American reporters and rights activists from captivity in Russia; soaring tensions in the Middle East after Israel assassinated two Hamas and one Hezbollah leader and whether Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s goal is a wider regional war; Russia’s steady advance in Ukraine; China hacks into Germany’s cartography office as America revamps its Indo-Pacific relationships to better deter Beijing; and a look at the US presidential race and possible candidates to serve as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate.

The US Air Force has sunk a Navy ship -- with a new anti-ship weapon launched from a B-2. We’ll get into the implications with the Sagamore Institute’s Dr. Jerry Hendrix, a retired US Navy captain, naval aviator and strategist. And CSIS’s Dr. Tom Karako comes by to update us on the latest in air and missile defense around the world. Plus the top headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

Former Deputy Defense Secretary David Norquist who is now the president and CEO of the National Defense Industrial Association and Dr Arun Seraphin who runs NDIA’s Emerging Technologies Institute, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the US budget outlook as Congress is expected to opt for another continuing resolution to fund government rather than legislation; impact of funding uncertainty on the very innovation ecosystem the Pentagon is courting; what to expect from the ETI conference in Washington Aug. 7-9; role of supplemental in driving innovation, bolstering supply chains and production capacity; feedback from the association’s membership; defense impacts irrespective of Harris or Trump victory in November; and Boeing’s decision to tap former Collins CEO Kelly Ortberg as the company’s next chief executive.

On this month’s innovation conversation to highlight key topics in the countdown to the Apex technology and innovation conference next January in Washington, sponsored by Clarion Defence, Air Commodore Blythe Crawford, the commandant of the Royal Air Force’s Air and Space Warfare Center, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the nature of innovation and the need for greater agility, the right and wrong lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine, the big problems that need solving, grading progress, issuing many small but demanding contracts to help determine the innovative companies that can delivery from those that can’t — and documenting the results — and keys to driving culture change. To learn more about the Apex conference, sponsorship and attendance opportunities please visit apexdefense.org

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the Office of Management and Budget’s midyear review that shows lower deficit projections than the Congressional Budget Office; budget outlook as Congress moves to again opt for a continuing resolution rather than passing a budget bill; analysis of second quarter earnings and management statements on budget and profit outlook; thoughts on the “Economic Consequences of Weak Governance and Policy Instability” hosted by The Budget Lab at Yale University and The Niskanen Center think tank; takeaways from the Farnborough International Air Show; and a look at the week ahead.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss an upcoming week on Wall Street after a shaky start on lower than expected inflation and strong profits; American Airlines joins Delta and United in posting muted earnings prompting questions whether the jetliner market is cooling as the world’s aerospace and defense leaders gathered at a muted Farnborough Air Show; Boeing nears an announcement of a new CEO; Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani says that he’s “personally” ok with Saudi Arabia joining Britain and Japan in the Global Combat Air Program even as Japanese officials suggest doing so would create reputational risk; and Babcock, Bombardier, Booz Allen Hamilton, Dassault, General Dynamics, General Electric, L3 Harris, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, RTX, Textron and Thales all report earnings.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the grim outlook for the National Defense Authorization Act and appropriations; Vice President Kamala Harris’ first week at the top of the ticket; President Biden explains why he decided it was time to hand the reins to a new generation; the vice presidential sweepstakes; Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu becomes the first ever foreign leader to address a joint session of Congress four times as Jerusalem strikes Houthi targets 2,000 kilometers away in Yemen after the Iran -backed group killed one and wounded 10 in a drone attack that leaked past air defenses and struck a Tel Aviv apartment building; and three key train lines in France are targeted with arson attacks that derailed travel plans for hundreds of thousands heading to the summer Olympic Games in Paris.

We get updates on major programs -- and visions of the future -- from Greg Ulmer, the head of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, and General Atomics CEO Dave Alexander. Plus the top headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

Dr. Jack Watling, the senior research fellow for land warfare at the Royal United Services Institute, discusses takeaways from RUSI's flagship land warfare conference this week in London, the future of land warfare, learning the right lessons from Russia's war on Ukraine and avoid the wrong ones, how the ubiquity of unmanned aerial systems changes land warfare, whether militaries are implementing lessons to improve capabilities, the sweet spots for vehicle weight as well as armament, need for more air and missile defenses as well as long-range fires, why NATO has to ready for future attack by Russia as leaders in Moscow make clear their next target after Ukraine is the alliance, an update on the Ukraine war and why Kyiv's position remains precarious despite US and Western aid with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today's program, sponsored by HIl, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses implications of President Biden’s decision against standing for reelection; whether defense sentiment would change if Vice President Harris’ running mate is a former military leader like Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., or retired Adm. Bill McRaven; why defense stocks in 2024-25 are unlikely to perform as they did in 2016; why 2025 will be a pivotal year for the Russo-Ukrainian war; the US Air Force's agreement with Boeing to start development work on the E-7 radar plane and decision to accept Block 40 TR3 versions of the F-35 Lightning Il fighter; expectations from the Farnborough International Airshow and earnings expectations from leading US firms; why US defense stocks have lagged the broader market; and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to President Biden’s decision to drop his reelection bid and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris, what’s next as the Democratic Party works to revamp its ticket, how Harris can broaden her appeal, and possible running mates.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss a down broader market but a good week for defense and aerospace; the US Air Force strikes a deal with Boeing to buy E-7 radar planes and has agreed to accept the long-delayed Block 4 Technology Refresh 3 version of Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II; Hexcel, Saab, Textron and United report earnings as other leading companies prepare to report earnings next week; Babcock pre-announces another 90 million pound charge on its Type 31 frigate; takeaways from the Royal International Air Tattoo as the global defense and aerospace industry prepares to convene next week at the Farnborough Air Show.

On this week's Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the budget process as the Republican Party nominates Donald Trump as its presidential candidate and Ohio Sen. JD Vance as vice president; speculation President Biden said to be increasingly open to stepping aside; New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez is found guilty, worries rise that Ukraine is in danger of losing to Russia; after saying he wouldn't fight for Taiwan, Trump suggests that he might support the island nation if Taipei pays more for its security; Britain's defense review; and the Gaza war grinds on and a Houthi missile hits a Tel Aviv apartment building killing one and wounding 10.

This week, three great airpower minds — Major General Jonas Vikman, chief of the Swedish Air Force; retired Air Marshal Greg Bagwell, president of the Air and Space Power Association; and Dean David Deptula of the Mitchell Institute — look at today’s challenges and the next generation. Plus the top headlines in airpower!

Dr. Jim Lewis, the director of the Strategic Technologies Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, discusses the cyber implications of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the “Chevron” precedent that gave US government agencies broad power to interpret legislation, prospects for more cyber-related congressional action, what needs to be on lawmaker’s to do list, the need to dramatically expand the cyber workforce, assessing the cyber elements of the two presidential campaigns, balancing freedom of speech with the need to counter disinformation in reigning in social media firms, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

Keith Webster, the president of the defense and aerospace council at the US Chamber of Commerce — who last week hosted the defense industrial forum at NATO’s 75th anniversary summit —and Dr. Jerry McGinn, the director of the Baroni Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University, discuss defense industrial takeaways from the gathering of alliance leaders last week in Washington, how to improve industrial capacity, balancing Buy American with Buy Allied sentiments, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim discuss the political implications of the assassination attempt on former President Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania and whether efforts to dial down toxic political rhetoric will succeed as the GOP holds its nominating convention this week in Milwaukee; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses assassination attempt, takeaways from the NATO summit, Senate appropriations and authorization language, whether the House will embrace the Senate’s proposal to increase defense spending, a look at this month’s Treasury figures and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss another winning Wall Street week; assassination attempt on former President Trump; NATO’s 75th anniversary summit; accusation that Russia is planned to kill Rheinmetall’s CEO Armin Papperger; Boeing pleads guilty to avoid criminal prosecution as questions rise whether the deal will impact the giant’s defense business as the company’s 777-X jetliner makes a key FAA certification flight and its machinists prepare to vote whether to strike; top USAF officer expects Next Generation Air Dominance award by year’s end despite recent comments by senior service leaders; Air Lease reports earnings as Hexel, Textron and others prepare to report.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss Senate’s appropriations figures and version of the National Defense Authorization Act; more House nonsense, calls for President Biden to step aside in the wake of his poor debate performance that raised questions about his fitness for office; a highly successful 75th anniversary NATO summit during which allies increased support for Ukraine, labeled China “the decisive enabler” for Russia’s war on Ukraine, brought together European and Indo-Pacific leaders, adopted a new industrial strategy to increase weapons production and defense cooperation, and Washington’s plan to return long-range strike missiles to Germany starting in 2026; Iran’s new president; and glimmers of hope for a deal that will end fighting in Gaza.

Every year, the world’s air and space chiefs gather in London to learn the latest, compare notes, and plan for the future. We’ll get an advance look into the major issues with RAF Director of Defense Studies Group Captain Paul Sanger-Davies, who is orchestrating the entire event. Plus top headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Eugene Rumer, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace discuss takeaways from NATO’s 75th anniversary summit in Washington including pledges of long-term aid to Ukraine as well as new air defense and other weaponry, the future of the Atlantic Alliance after the November election, how European leaders would work with a new Trump administration, an update on the Ukraine war as US officials suggest Kyiv is no longer in danger of losing, prospects for ending the conflict, latest on battlefield capabilities including unmanned systems, how China is helping Russian disinformation across the global south, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s very different meeting with Vladimir Putin that indicates the Russian leader is far from isolated with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Kathleen McInnis, the director of the Smart Women, Smart Power program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and CSIS Senior Fellow Dan Fata, who served as the deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO during the Bush administration, discuss the need to expand the view of burden sharing with allies beyond military and hardware spending to infrastructure and other investment that enhances the alliance’s deterrence and warfighting capabilities, how to more efficiently direct resources as nations spend more money, concerns that Donald Trump will reduce support for NATO should he return to the White House, and why so many are gloomy about the alliance’s 75th anniversary gathering in Washington even as NATO has dramatically improved its spending, war planning, exercises and preparedness over the past few years with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses Japan’s defense sector as Tokyo surges military spending to 2 percent of GDP by 2027, a review of historical investment trends as senior Pentagon officials express frustration with industry share buybacks that were only approved by the SEC legalized in 1982, a look and NATO defense industrial themes as leaders gather in Washington to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Atlantic Alliance, how a change in US leadership could shape allied investment plans, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss aerospace and defense stock performance as Wall Street edges higher on jobs figures and a stronger dollar, Sir Kier Starmer becomes Britain’s first Labour prime minister in 14 years as John Healey becomes defense secretary, France holds its second election round, Boeing appears to eye settlement to avoid criminal trial, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall floats notion of a Next Generation Air Dominance fighter that’s a third the price of the current plane or around the cost of an F-35, China’s JF-31 is reportedly about to enter service, Leonardo partners with Rheinmetall to lock up Italy’s 20 billion euro land systems modernization market, and Universal Hydrogen — once seen as the future of clean energy — folds.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss stocks drop after a three-week winning streak, impact of Airbus profit and deliveries warning across the sector, a disastrous US presidential debate as Britain and France hold key elections, Justice Department investigators recommend criminal charges against Boeing of criminal conspiracy over two deadly 737 crashes that killed 346, Boeing’s ongoing acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, Anduril reportedly is poised to raise $1.5 billion in funding, DoD’s Replicator program is funded to $1 billion and the U.S. Army wants more than 1000 Switchblade 600 loitering munitions from AeroVironment in the next year.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the disastrous US presidential debate and its impact on perceptions of the United States and American global leadership; analysis of the security implications of elections in France, Iran and Britain; analysis of defense, State Department and Foreign Operations, as well as Homeland Security appropriations; efforts by GOP lawmakers to keep Steve Bannon from going to jail for contempt of Congress and imprison Attorney General Merrick Garland on the same charge; the implications of recent primary outcomes including the defeat of progressive Rep. Jamal Bowman, D-NY, by centrist George Latimer; what to expect from NATO’s upcoming 75th anniversary summit including proposal to “bridge” Ukraine toward membership; China and North Korea continue to ratchet up regional tensions as WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange accepts US plea deal to return to Australia; Israel’s defense minister visits Washington as Jerusalem and Beirut make a “handshake” deal to avoid war, and impact of Israel’s Supreme Court decision to allow government to draft orthodox students into IDF service.

On this episode of our Land Warfare program, sponsored by American Rheinmetall, Doug Bush, the assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics and technology, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss Ukraine war lessons that are shaping US Army acquisition efforts, increasing the adoption of novel technologies into core acquisition efforts, progress in increasing ammunition production and what will be needed to further surge if needed, role of allies and partners in increasing weapons and munition capacity, the Army’s central role in global US military logistics, the service’s new software policy that some claim will discourage innovative firms from pursing contracts, and 2026 budget pressures and how the service would spend more money if Congress raises funding levels.

China’s accelerating air capabilities are complicating U.S. planning, and may have led to a delay in the Next-Generation Air Dominance program. In this expanded edition, Dr. Brendan Mulvaney, Director of the China Aerospace Studies Institute at National Defense University, will help us understand just how fast Bejing is moving. And futurist Clint “Q” Hinote, formerly head of Air Force planning, on what to do about it. Powered by GE!

On this month’s innovation conversation to highlight key topics in the countdown to the Apex technology and innovation conference next January in Washington, sponsored by Clarion Defence, Rob Harper, the co-founder and chief executive of Rowden Technologies, discusses lessons that shaped the innovative British AI, data and machine learning company, lessons from the Ukraine war, the future of AI and how best to harness the technology for military applications, what human control of AI-enabled systems means, adapting commercial AI tools like GPT-4 for military uses, what governments can do to accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies, how small companies can negotiate the “valley of death” with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian. To learn more about the Apex conference, sponsorship and attendance opportunities please visit apexevents.org

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Dr. Eugene Rumer, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses, discuss the dead terror attacks on two churches and a synagogue in Dagestan, Ukraine’s deadly strikes on Sevastopol, the first anniversary of late Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin’s run on Moscow, and analysis of Vladimir Putin’s trips to North Korea and Vietnam last week; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses potential flaws with the Congressional Budget Office’s debt projections, a defense spending update, update on whether Congress will increase defense spending, analysis of former National Security Adviser Dr. Robert O’Brien’s Foreign Affairs article, whether defense will feature in the June 27 presidential debate, the industrial implications of recent major program cancellations or delays, Northrop Grumman’s B-21 Raider bomber statement, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss defense and aerospace stock performance on a jittery Wall Street, Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun’s testimony before the Senate about the company’s problems and accusations management put profit ahead of safety, helium leaks and thruster problems prompt NASA to keep Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft in orbit longer than planned, the Boeing-led upgrade of B-52 Stratofortress bombers is delayed by three years to 2033, Israel to receive more F-15 fighters, Northrop Grumman announces a cost cap increase on B-21 Raider stealth bomber, and takeaways from the Eurosatory 2024 land warfare tradeshow and conference.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the Senate Armed Services Committee boost to defense spending as details of it’s version of the National Defense Authorization Act emerge, the White House surges air defense weapons to Ukraine and broadens Kyiv’s ability to use US weapons to strike Russia, Vladimir Putin visits North Korea and Vietnam to ink a mutual security pact with Pyongyang and deepen relations with Hanoi, House Intelligence Chairman Mike Turner blasts the Biden administration for not disclosing details of Russia’s plans to put a nuclear capability in space and doing more to stop it, announcement that outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte will succeeded Jens Stoltenberg as NATO’s 14th secretary general, China ratchets up tensions against the Philippines, Bibi Netanyahu accuses Washington of withholding weapons — a charge the White House denies — as the Israel Defense Force increasingly finds itself at odds with the country’s own prime minister.

On today’s first ever Air-Land episode, JJ Gertler, the co-host of The Air Power Podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, discusses the US Air Force’s re-consideration of the fighter element of its centerpiece Next Generation Air Dominance program in the wake of both the changing nature of the threat and how US forces are likely to fight in the future; and in our Land Warfare update, sponsored by American Rheinmetall, Dan Roper of the Association of the United States Army discusses key themes from the biennial Eurosatory 2024 land systems tradeshow and conference with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Eugene Rumer, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discuss the cou tours of the war as Moscow presses its offensive and Ukraine responds with new Western weapons and permission to use them against targets in Russia, how Ukraine is using Western weapons to change the strategic dynamic in Crimea, Russian forces learn lessons but still relies on artillery and manpower, the G7’leaders key to supporting Ukraine will survive elections as Russia and China undermine support for them, whether efforts to undermine Putin will succeed, how newly appointed Defense Minister Andrey Belousev is revamping Russia’s military, new tactics and weapons in war, Putin visits North Korea for more support and if Washington can pressure Beijing to halt its military assistance for Moscow, and where Putin’s red lines truly lie as the Russian leader once again resorts to nuclear saber rattling with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the Senate Armed Services Committee’s decision to increase proposed 2025 defense spending by $25 billion — $30 billion less than Ranking Member Sen. Roger Wicker proposed in his recent plan — to more quickly improve US military capabilities to better deter China and Russia — and whether the added funding will also be approved by the House that just passed its $895 billion National Defense Authorization Act, the Air Force recently equivocation about its centerpiece Next Generation Air Dominance program and tight 2026 budget and threat factors that may be driving the change, implications of the rise of the hard right particularly French right on European defense, takeaways from the G7 meeting in Italy, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss Wall Street holds gains as defense and aerospace stocks are battered, European markets plunge after far right political parties fared in European Parliament elections prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to announce a snap election, facing budget pressures the US Air Force is considering slowing or even cancelling its centerpiece Next-Generation Air Dominance program just weeks before picking whether Boeing or Lockheed Martin will win the contract prompting frustration across companies that invested billions of dollars in technology to win and facilities to execute the program, the FAA investigates fake titanium parts from a Chinese supplier that made it into Airbus and Boeing jetliners, the G7 toughens its stance on Russia and China as Vladimir Putin vows retaliation, takeaways from the ILA Airshow in Berlin and what to expect from the Eurosatory ground systems show in Paris next week.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the House Armed Services Committee’s $895 billion National Defense Authorization Act that includes “poison pills for Democrats,” the House’s defense appropriations measure as the Senate Armed Services Committee finishes marking its version of the NDAA, speculation that pressures in the 2026 budget that’s now under construction is forcing the US Air Force to reconsider its flagship Next-Generation Air Dominance program, former President Trump’s meeting with GOP lawmakers on Capitol Hill as they vow revenge against the justice system and hold Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt, a consequential G7 meeting that provides $50 billion in assistance to Ukraine backed by seized Russian assets, new sanctions on Russia, the new 10-year security pact signed by President Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Vladimir Putin vows retaliation saying the West has “crossed the point of no return” while sending a frigate and submarine to Cuba to intimate Washington as the US Navy docks the attack submarine USS Helena at Guantanamo Bay, China harasses a Dutch ship in the East China Sea, and what’s next as Israel presses ahead with its Gaza campaign and Hezbollah increases rocket fire into Northern Israel.

Hot wars mean a very hot air power market. Fortunately, the number one aerospace market analyst in the world just happens to be our friend Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy. We focus his global strategic expertise on airpower, with illuminating results.  Powered by GE!

Amb. Jim Cunningham, former ambassador to Afghanistan, Israel, the United Nations, and consul general to Hong Kong and Macau, discusses the flaws with Israel’s strategy against Hamas in Gaza that’s undermined global support for the Jewish state, whether the damage is lasting, the importance of a two-state solution to lasting peace and implications of a one-state solution, whether Israeli strategy would change under new leadership in Jerusalem and why American efforts to pressure Israel are so difficult, and countering Iran’s malign efforts in the region and beyond as Tehran grows steadily more emboldened as it inches closer to a nuclear capability with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Amb. Bob Blackwill, a retired American diplomat and former ambassador to India who is now the Henry A. Kissinger senior fellow for foreign policy at the Council on Foreign Relations, and Richard Fontaine, the president and CEO of the Center for a New American Security discuss their new book — Lost Decade: The US Pivot to Asia and the Rise of Chinese Power — that dissects the Obama administration’s Asia Pivot that wasn’t and the gains that China has made over the past decade as a case for a more holistic US grand strategy toward Beijing and the world with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Se. Roger Wicker’s plan to quickly bolster US military capabilities to better deter China and Russia, whether the plan stands a change of success and outlook for defense authorizations and appropriations through the end of the year, the role of allies and partners in bolstering American and allied capabilities, look ahead to the G7 summit in Bari, Italy, defense and aerospace implications of far right gains in EU parliamentary elections that prompted French President Emmanuel Macron to call snap election, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss aerospace and defense stock performance on Wall Street on stronger than expected US jobs growth dampens prospect of rapid interest rate cuts as the European Central Bank cuts borrowing rates; Airbus, Boeing and Embraer report May deliveries; Boeing’s CEO Dave Calhoun to testify before Congress on June 18 as the company’s Starliner spacecraft makes its maiden launch to orbit; SpaceX’s giant Starship makes its fourth and most successful flight; Chemring issues results and Kongsberg holds its capital markets day; more Eurofighters for Germany, more F-35s for Israel and France pledges Mirage jets to Ukraine; our team’s takeaways from visits to Poland and Washington; and the legacy of Apollo 8 astronaut and former General Dynamics Chairman and CEO Bill Anders who died June 7 at age 90 when his T-34 crashed in Washington state.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of the American Defense International lobbying firm, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the House and Senate’s defense budget moves and whether House amendments will stymie progress, prospects for SASC Ranking Member Sen. Roger Wicker’s proposal to dramatically increase defense spending, appropriations update, controversial new members for the House Intelligence and Armed Services Committees, President Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron make a powerful case why the democracies must continue to battle autocracies on the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings as a week after his felony conviction Donald Trump and the GOP leadership vow retaliation against the legal system and the former president’s opponents, Biden issues an executive order that closes the border to asylum seekers, Ukraine uses US weapons to weaken Russia’s hold on Crimea, India’s Narendra Modi is reelected to a third term, but his Bharatiya Janata Party loses seats, rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula, and Israel increases the past of its Gaza operation in the face of rising civilian casualties and increasing international pressure as Bibi Netanyahu continues to cling to power.

This week, we look at today’s airpower and yesterday’s. Dr. Tom Karako of CSIS brings us current on air and missile defense in the Middle East, Ukraine, and elsewhere. And a new monument to an American airman you may not have heard of; Kevin Billings joins us with the story of London’s new Billy Fiske memorial. Plus airpower headlines. Powered by GE!

On this month’s innovation conversation to highlight key topics in the countdown to the Apex technology and innovation conference next January in Washington, sponsored by Clarion Defence, Bryan Clark, the director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute think tank, discusses his June 12 Apex event — The New Iron Triangle: Achieving Adaptability and Scale in Defense Acquisition — highlighting a new report on how to better deliver needed capabilities at scale, challenges with the venture capital approach to funding a new crop of innovative defense companies and the government’s role in shepherding the worthiest ones to success, role of profit policies and prospect that government contractors can make commercial returns, lessons from the US Air Force’s recent Collaborative Combat Aircraft awards, role of  modularity, open architectures and rejecting nationality requirements in crafting a truly allied industry capability to address equipment needs and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian. To learn more about the Apex conference, sponsorship and attendance opportunities please visit apexevents.org

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Andy Hoehn, the former deputy assistant secretary of defense for strategy during the Bush administration who is now the senior vice president for research and analysis at the Rand think tank, and Thom Shanker, a former New York Times deputy Washington editor who is now the director of the Project for Media & National Security at George Washington University’s School of Media and Public Affairs, discuss their book — Age of Danger: Keeping America Safe in an Era of New Superpowers, New Weapons, and New Threats — with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses defense industry stock valuations and factors that would change investor sentiment, the prospect that Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Sen. Roger Wicker’s proposed defense spending increase will become reality, the need for a broader national strategy to deter China and Russia, the role of more targeted economic warfare in the wake of the White House’s Daleep Singh’s comments last week at the Brookings Institution, more analysis if what former President Trump’s reelection might mean in 2025-2028 as well as impact his conviction on felony charges will mean for the election, what to expect from the upcoming Eurosatory land warfare exhibition in Paris and Berlin Air Show, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss a down week on Wall Street after weeks of strong gains, Boeing submits a safety plan to Federal Aviation Administration that declines to clear higher 737 production rates as top executives says certification of its Max 7 and 10 jets remains delayed, US and European weapons production is trending up but many worry it’s not fast enough whether for artillery shells or air defense weapons, Washington allows Ukraine to use American weapons to strike units in Russia that are attacking Kharkiv as French President Emmanuel Macron and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg argue member nations should let Kyiv use Western weapons strike legitimate targets, Pentagon Acquisition and Sustainment Under Secretary Dr Bill LaPlante says Northrop Grumman is on track to deliver the first 40 of some 100 B-21 Raider bombers on a fixed price basis of $550 million apiece in 2019 dollars, an analysis of recent Northrop losses and their impact on the company, and takeaways from the European Business Aviation and Exhibition in Geneva.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the US and international implications of Donald Trump becoming the first former American president to be convicted on 34 felony charges, President Biden allows Ukraine to fire US weapons into Russia against forces attacking Kharkiv as French President Emmanuel Macron and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg call of members to allow Kyiv to use Western weapons against targets in Russia, as NATO prepares to celebrate 75 years of unity the alliance is fracturing over Ukraine, takeaways from the China-Japan-South Korea meeting and Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell’s gathering this weekend with his Japanese and South Korean counterparts, what to expect from the IISS’s annual Shangrila Dialogue this weekend in Singapore including the meeting between Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Chinese Defense Minister Adm. Dong Jun, and Israel expands its war in Gaza as officials say the campaign will continue through the end of the year despite international criticism but helps Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s popularity.

Futurist Clint Hinote, formerly head of Air Force planning, on where the service is going, whether to take nuclear threats seriously, the defense of Taiwan, and much more. Plus some of the week’s headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Todor Tagarev, Bulgaria’s former defense minister who is now a professor at the Institute of Information and Communication Technologies of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and Head of its IT for Security Department and Centre for Security and Defence Management, discusses the interdisciplinary nature of the threat Russia poses to European security, whether efforts to counter Moscow are being successful, lessons from the Ukraine war that are shaping the alliance’s actions, the stakes of the war and whether Vladimir Putin’s calls for ceasefire signify a change in his imperial ambitions, the Russian threat in the Black Sea and how Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey have deepened their partnership, Putin’s nuclear rhetoric and whether nations should heed any of his “red lines,” why more nations should follow France in allowing its weapons to be used by Kyiv against legitimate military targets in Russia that are involved in striking Ukraine, Bulgaria’s sharp rise in defense spending and sweeping military modernization, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest in Russia’s new offensive against Ukraine as Moscow deploys glide bombs to strike military and civilian targets alike, whether Russia broke through the lines or Ukraine left a gap that was exploited, prospect of peace as Vladimir Putin suggests freezing lines where they are and Volodymyr Zelenskyy calls on President Biden and Xi Jinping to join a peace conference, Ukraine’s ever deeper strikes into Russia, and Putin’s crackdown on “corruption” after replacing his defense minister; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses former President Trump’s defense plans should he return to the office, America’s role on the naval export market, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss investor worries that after dropping inflation and soaring markets the Federal Reserve won’t cut rates as quickly as hoped, Boeing releases third annual safety report as CFO Brian West says the company will post negative cash flow this year, how the new financial outlook will impact the company plans to acquire Spirit AeroSystems and continue costly efforts to restore commercial and defense confidence, Sierra Nevada plan to use former Korean Air 747s as the Pentagon’s next generation Doomsday planes, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak schedules snap elections for July 4, and British intelligence finding that China is sending lethal aid to Russia and the merits of allowing Kyiv to use US weapons to strike targets in Russia.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the House Armed Services Committee markup of the National Defense Authorization Act as the 2025 spending debate continues, what’s next for Iran after president and foreign minister are killed in a helicopter crash, China launches military exercises to intimidate Taiwan as Lai Ching-te is inaugurated, Britain accuses Beijing of sending lethal aid to Russia as the White House balks as it debates letting Kyiv use US weapons to strike targets in Russia, Victor Orban wants all the benefits of NATO membership but opt out of helping Ukraine, President Biden hosts Kenyan President William Ruto, Emmanuel Macron’s surprise visit to New Caledonia as the territory has plunged into strife after Paris expands voting for French citizens, and Israel launches Rafah operation despite international and domestic pressure prompting Ireland, Norway and Spain to join Sweden in recognizing a Palestinian state as the international criminal court indicts Hamas and Israel’s leaders, and House and Senate expected to invite Bibi Netanyahu to address lawmakers.

General Mike Minihan is the new boss at Air Mobility Command, managing the Department of Defense’s global reach at a time of global turmoil. We ask him about AMC’s warfighting culture, keeping up with demand, the future of its platforms, and more. And the week’s headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Seth Jones, the Harold Brown Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies who leads the think tank’s International Security Program, discusses the status of the Ukraine war as Russia exerts its manpower and weapons advantage to gain ground from weary defenders show on weapons, what’s next in the war, Russia’s shortcomings despite two years of war, lessons China is learning from the war and the West’s sanctions on Russia, a more coordinated strategy to cope with a China, Russia, Iran and North Korea that are working ever more closely together, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, David Sanger, the chief Washington correspondent for The New York Times, discusses his new book with longtime researcher Mary Brooks — “New Cold Wars: China’s Rise, Russia’s Invasion and America’s Struggle to Defend the West” — why leaders failed to accurately understand China and Russia’s rise and ambitions, limits on Western power to shape Beijing and Moscow, the best approach to deterring them, whether we have transitioned from new Cold War to a new state of war, analysis of the Biden administration’s handling of Russia’s nuclear saber rattling, and how to counter China, Russia, Iran and North Korea as they work more closely together to undermine the West with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest headlines and looks at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss how aerospace and defense stocks performed as cooling US inflation drove the Dow past 40,000, a fast-changing European defense spending environment as Germany pledges another 100 billion euros to improve military capabilities, the case for US investment in the European defense market as French President Emmanuel Macron works to attract investors to France and Europe, British defense spending outlook, what President Biden’s 100 percent tariffs on Chinese electric cars means for broader Sino-American trade, shareholders allow Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun to keep his $32.5 million pay package and his seat on the company’s board, Russian’s offensive against Ukraine, and reflections on the upcoming 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the House Armed Services Committee’s marks to the National Defense Authorization Act, the House appropriations process begins and spending discussions with the Senate continue, Russia launches a multi-pronged offensive against a Ukraine weakened by delays in US aid as NATO considers sending “trainers” to more rapidly train Ukrainian troops, report that Russia has tested the first phase of its nuclear anti-satellite system, Vladimir Putin shakes up his defense leadership before meeting with Xi Jinping as the two leaders move to deepen their strategic partnership, and Israel presses ahead with its Rafah operation as Defense Minister Yoav Gallant calls on new Palestinian leadership to oversee Gaza after the war, publicly breaking with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu.

Congress has begun to weigh in on this year’s defense budget with the House Armed Services Committee chairman’s mark. Where does airpower stand in this year’s deliberations? Budget guru Todd Harrison of the American Enterprise Institute explains what the numbers mean – and don’t. Plus the week’s headlines in airpower.

John Kelly, the chief executive officer of Hanwha Defense USA, the American arm of the South Korean defense firm discusses his plan to grow the company‘s US footprint over the next decade, how lessons from his three decades navigating BAE System’s rise in America will help guide Hanwha’s growth, the role the company’s culture of investment and speed plays in making it an attractive supplier especially for munitions as the US Army applies supplemental funding to refill its stocks, the case for the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer in US service, unmanned systems and other capabilities the company has developed and is developing with partners like Anduril, Hanwha’s growing naval prowess, and a look at its merger and acquisition approach that will play a key factor in its growth, including an update on a possible Austal deal with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Technology Report, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the executive director of the Cyber Solarium 2.0 project, discusses the Biden administrations four new documents — National Security Memorandum 22, the International Cyber Strategy, the Cyber Posture Review, and the second version of the implementation plan — the House Armed Services Committee chairman’s marks to the cyber elements of the National Defense Authorization Act and the Senate’s sentiment on cyber priorities, concern by cyber firms that the administration’s drive to hold Chief Information Security Officers personally responsible for lapses, and how the battle against Russian and Chinese disinformation is being lost with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Russia’s advances into Northern Ukraine and whether they mark a negative turning point for Kyiv, Vladimir Putin’s cabinet reshuffle and what it means, Russian messaging during May 9 “Victory Day” events, Putin’s latest round of nuclear rhetoric that includes tactical drills and news reports of a facility in Belarus; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses budget outlook as House Armed Services Committee works on its version of the National Defense Authorization Act, analysis of first quarter 2024 earnings data, takeaways from congressional testimony including from US Air Force leaders on the Collaborative Combat Aircraft effort and fleet air and missile defense, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss another winning week on Wall Street, inflation worries, the latest FAA investigation into Boeing, this time for allegedly falsifying records on the company’s 787 widebody, BWXT, Embraer, Hendsoldt, Leonardo, Palantir, Spirit, and Transdigm earnings, AerCap and KBR host investor days, and Europe moves to use seized Russian assets to help Ukraine and NATO works to rearm itself and Ukraine.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss House Speaker Mike Johnson keeps his job, the FY 2025 budget process churns ahead, President Biden denounces antisemitism and threatens arms shipments as Israel brushes aside warnings and starts its Rafah incursion, Europe’s perception of Israel’s Gaza war and how China is portraying US support for the war and prospect that Washington is fickle with allies, the EU moves to use Russian assets to help Ukraine as NATO working groups coordinate support for Kyiv, Xi Jinping makes his first visit to Europe in five years.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall traveled to Maxwell Air Force Base on May 7th, and allowed The Air Power Podcast to ride along.  He shared his experience in an AI-controlled fighter, his views on roles and missions for collaborative combat aircraft, the CCA competition, Replicator, the Space Force budget, the nuclear deterrent, and more. Plus we have top news in airpower. Powered by GE!

Jason Salata, a retired US Navy captain and former US Special Operations Command spokesman who is now with the Provision Advisors PR firm representing SOF Week 2024, discusses the key messages from US and international special operations leaders at this year’s SOF Week in Tampa, international cooperation as nations continue counterterror missions while increasing great power capabilities, concern that investment in SOF capabilities is declining, and how the technology focus at the exhibition has shifted from guns and gear to AI, big data and unmanned systems; and Michael Harpin of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency with the winners of the government-wide cyber competition with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this month’s innovation conversation to highlight key topics in the countdown to the Apex technology and innovation conference next January in Washington, sponsored by Clarion Defence, Gen. Dave Goldfein, USAF Ret., the US Air Force’s 21st chief of staff, who is now a Blackstone board member and Google Public Sector board chair and advisor to firms like Anduril and Shield Capital, discusses what he has learned since retirement that he wishes he new while in uniform, how to drive innovation, keys to quickly adapting commercial technologies for military needs, growing importance of data and software, the lessons from the Air Force’s decision to pick Anduril and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems as the finalists in the Collaborative Combat Aircraft contest, culture change and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest headlines and looks at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss prospect the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates now that new jobs creation has cooled, a shareholder advisory firm recommends investors vote to oust outgoing Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun and two board members off the company’s board as the company issued $10 billion in debt, Embraer considers making bigger aircraft to compete with Boeing and Airbus, Sierra Nevada beats Boeing to win a $13 billion contract to develop the Air Force’s next generation nuclear command and control planes, analysis of Howmet, MTU, and Thales earnings, Air Force secretary Frank Kendall makes history in being the first senior leader to fly on an AI powered fighter, the legendary X-62A Vista jet, and as Boeing struggles with its star liner spacecraft China has launched a spacecraft to land on the far side of the moon and return with samples.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene moves to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson as lawmakers debate the defense funding levels, police nationwide crack down on increasingly unruly campus protests, Donald Trump lays out his second term priorities, National Intelligence Director Avril Haines highlights the threat from Russia and China as Beijing and Moscow practice drills near Taiwan, French President Emmanuel Macron doubles down on why Europe needs to do more for its security, and that it’s imperative to consider putting troops in Ukraine as Kyiv continues to lose ground to a relentless Russian assault Neither Israel nor Hamas have accepted a proposed ceasefire as Israel prepares its Rafah assault and settlers depopulate large chunks of the West Bank of Palestinians.

Former Army master aviator Brigadier General Bob Hastings joins us to talk all things Green Air, from the recent Quad-A conference to the Army’s aviation plans and safety issues. Plus more on CCA and the other top news in airpower. Powered by GE!

Nigel Inkster, the former director of intelligence and operations at the Secret Intelligence Service otherwise known as MI6 who is now the Senior Adviser for Cyber Security and China at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, discusses Russia’s influence operations in Europe, their track record of success, how to counter them, the right response to Russia after its malign recent cyber actions like attacking a rural Texas dam and assassinations across Europe and in the United States with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

Teri Schultz, a Brussel- based journalist who reports for Deutsche Welle and National Public Radio, discusses the results of years-long intelligence gathering efforts that reveal the extent of Russian influence operations in Europe and targeting members of the European Parliament, role of Russian couple in Czech Republic who advanced Russian interests and played role in destruction of Czech and Bulgarian ammunition depots, poisoning and harboring members of GRU Unit 29155, how European leaders are countering Russian efforts, and a look at the agenda of NATO’s upcoming 75th anniversary summit in Washington with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses first quarter 2024 earnings; leading firms buy back more than $4 billion in stock as leading defense officials chide firms for the practice; the US Air Force’s decision to select General Atomics and Anduril to compete for Increment 1 of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program and award Sierra Nevada a contract valued at $13 billion award to develop the successor to the E-4B “Nightwatch” Advanced Airborne Command Post; and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian discuss a big drop on Wall Street; Airbus, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and more, earnings reports; the US Air Force picks Anduril and General Atomics as finalists for its Collaborative Combat Aircraft autonomous combat aircraft; British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak moves to increase defense spending; French President Emmanuel Macron’s case for greater European security and economic independence; and Boeing buys back a St. Louis factory from GKN.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss House Speaker Mike Johnson’s future after Senate passage and President Biden’s signature of the Ukraine-Israel-Indo-Pacific supplemental, whether the amount is enough to help Kyiv win, Washington’s decision to transfer longer-range ATACMS missiles that have proven devastating against Russian targets, President Macron’s case for Europe to reduce reliance on America and China, the extent of Russian and Chinese infiltration of the European Parliament and German politics, Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Beijing to urge cooperation as Chinese officials make clear Washington has to choose cooperation on its terms or confrontation, campus protests and their implications, the latest on Israel’s war on Hamas in Gaza.

The United States Air Force has embarked on a wide-ranging reoptimization, encompassing operations, organization, culture, and more. One of the service’s more influential Chiefs, General John Jumper, joins us to analyze the process and goals of remaking a military service while it is engaged around the world. Plus special analysis of the Air Force’s CCA downselect and other top news in airpower. Powered by GE!

On this month’s Land Warfare program, sponsored by American Rheinmetall, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses importance of the $61 billion Ukraine supplemental role of longer range ATACMS weapons and their ability to strike deep behind Russian lines, whether Moscow will step up operations before US help arrives, and how Kyiv is developing the means to strike take counter strike into Russian territory; and Col. Gian Gentile, USA Ret., PhD, the senior historian at the RAND Corporation’s Arroyo Center, discusses the broader lessons of the Ukraine war and which are applicable to a China conflict, takeaways from Israel’s war in Gaza, a response to the latest claims that the tank is dead, the US Army’s strategy in the Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine war lessons, and the need to be honest about what technology can and can’t deliver in new weapon systems.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, former Deputy Defense Secretary David Norquist who is now the president and CEO of the National Defense Industrial Association, discusses the trade group’s new “Vital Signs” report that serves as both a report card of US defense industrial health as well as a policy roadmap, inflation and supply chain challenges driven by high defense and commercial demand, the Pentagon’s first ever National Defense Industrial Strategy, whether the $95 billion supplemental for Ukraine, Israel-Gaza and the Indo-Pacific is enough to support allies and refill America’s depleted weapons stocks, and PPBE reform and the unique role of comptrollers in driving innovation.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses implications of the $95 billion US funding package for Ukraine, Israel and Gaza, and bolstering capabilities and allies in the Indo-Pacific; whether arsenals will be critical in bolstering production to support Ukraine as well as refill depleted US weapons stocks; the long-running debate about the cost and benefit tradeoffs between attacker and defender; whether Iran goes nuclear at the descent exchange with Israel and what a nuclear Tehran will mean; the Navy leadership’s interest in drawing lessons for foreign commercial shipbuilders and whether the service has the right approach to benefit from them; costs of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification 2.0 effort to improve industrial base; what to expect as defense and aerospace contractors report first 2024 quarter earnings; initial takeaways from the Society for Military History conference; and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss another down week on Wall Street on a tech tumbles and worries about a wider Mideast war; eight months late, Congress passes a $95 billion supplemental for Ukraine, Israel and Gaza, and improve US and allied capabilities in the Indo-Pacific; more US tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum as Washington again warns Beijing about helping Moscow’s Ukraine war; whether added US and European investment is enough to help Ukraine win; role of arsenals in increasing defense production; Boeing workers testify before a Senate committee on production quality problems; American Airlines pilots sound alarm over their carrier’s safety and maintenance; Lockheed Martin beats Northrop Grumman’s-RTX team to win Missile Defense Agency’s $17 billion Next Generation Interceptor program; and Britain considers new program to replace amphibious warships.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss House Speaker Mike Johnson’s drive to risk his job to work with Democrats to pass long-overdue aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan; days after the first ever direct Iranian attack on Israel that was blunted by the Jewish state’s allies Jerusalem attacked an airbase in Iran; as Russia gains ground in Ukraine Moscow gets bolder in sowing antisemitism in US, attacking a Texas water authority as two of its spies are arrested in Germany accused of planning an attack on an American base where Ukrainians are being trained; high-level defense dialogue between Washington and Beijing as US and Philippine forces conduct exercises; Australia increases defense spending; and why Kim Il Sung’s day in the sun is setting in North Korea.

The big news in the air this week was of course Iran’s attack on Israel with more than 300 drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, which was defeated by a coalition of nations using a variety of systems. At the same time, you can see the bottom of the barrel in Ukrainian defense weapons. Dr. Tom Karako, director of the Missile Defense Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, joins us to cover it all. Plus a rollicking set of airpower headlines. Powered by GE!

On this week’s Technology Report, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the executive director of the Cyber Solarium 2.0 project, discusses Russia’s recent boasting about its intelligence gathering and probing attacks on US water infrastructure, why water infrastructure is being targeted and how Washington should respond, Microsoft’s vulnerabilities and ways to improve government-industry cooperation, how one man saved the internet and lessons to safeguard it in the future, securing the cyber supply chain, Iran’s cyber role, countering disinformation as House Inteligence Committee Chairman Mike Turner’s calls out GOP for parroting Russian propaganda, and takeaways from the multinational operational that defended Israel from massive Iranian missile and drone attack.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Eugene Rumer, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discuss the state of the Ukraine war as Russia steadily gains ground as Ukrainian casualties mount thanks to US dithering over aid, Moscow’s goals for the war and whether Vladimir Putin’s claim that all he wants is Ukraine is credible, the global implications of a Russian victory, how quickly aid can arrive in Ukraine even if Congress approves a package today, the kind of capabilities needed to quickly change results on the front lines, whether it’s even possible to counter the Russian propaganda that’s penetrated the upper reaches of US politics especially across the GOP, and last ditch efforts the West must consider to prevent a total Ukrainian rout and possible ways the war ends with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discuss Iran’s April 13 attack on Israel and the extraordinary multinational defense against some 300 ballistic, cruise and explosive UAVs threats, why Tehran decided to attack the Jewish state directly rather than through proxies, President Biden’s role in defending Israel but opposition to US involvement in retaliatory strikes against Iran, the outlook for congressional supplemental for Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan, other geopolitical factors to consider, outlook for first quarter 2024 earnings, takeaways from the Navy League’s Sea-Air-Space conference, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss Wall Street’s second down week on stronger than expected inflation that’s likely to delay Federal Reserve rate cuts, new survey shows supply chains unlikely to normalize for between one and three years, when defense output will ramp up as Ukraine aid drains Western stockpiles, another Boeing whistleblower accuses the giant of taking potentially dangerous shortcuts on its 787 jetliner, update on Spirit AeroSystems’ future, Japan’s potential as a defense industrial power, and Ukraine’s war update as Kyiv loses ground.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss more madness as Congress returns to session and Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene again threatens to oust Speaker Mike Johnson as Johnson considers advancing the Ukraine supplemental, speaker’s trip to Florida to lobby former President Trump to support the measure, a prominent Republican lawmaker warns his caucus is being infected by Moscow’s propaganda as GOP lawmakers at Trump’s urging blocked the renewal of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a look at 2025 budget process, Russia gains ground as Kyiv runs out of ammunition and people, what Washington can do to stop Beijing from helping Moscow, NATO’s naval woes, landmark meetings in Washington among US, Japanese and Filipino leaders, and a week after an Israeli air strike in Syria killed top Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps leaders, Israel is on alert for Iran’s response.

Tiltrotors are having more than a moment, with the Army, Navy, and Air Force all committed to the technology and the V-22 returning to flight following an accident. We’ll talk with two experienced operators, Kurt Fuller and Rob Freeland of Bell, to get the latest on the V-22, V-280, and more. And how does a record-setting solar aircraft become a reconnaissance platform? Skydweller CEO Robert Miller shares the story. Plus this week’s headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

David Schild, the executive director of the Printed Circuit Board Association of America, discusses US government investment in 2024 but an uncertain outlook in 2025, the imperative to invest in the entire printed circuit board ecosystem that constitutes 70 percent of modern microelectronics with chips constituting the remaining 30 percent, why a CHIPS Act equivalent is vital for printed circuit board industrial base, role of allies and partners, an update on semiconductor investment and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses, discusses Ukraine’s new long-range drones and how Kyiv is using them to strike war industries deep in Russia, Ukrainian efforts to build its own defense-industrial capabilities, Russia’s use of hypersonic weapons to attack Ukraine’s infrastructure, Kyiv’s most pressing needs, where Russia is gaining ground and likely to focus its own offensive plans, whether Vladimir Putin will order a broader national troop mobilization and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses geopolitical drivers for global defense, prospects for US supplemental funding for Ukraine as well as NATO’s new five-year $100 million plan to help Kyiv, whether Washington will cut Israel aid anytime soon, the National Defense Industrial Association’s annual “Vital Signs” assessment, margin pressure on leading company as the price of everything increases, the performance gap between prime contractors and services providers, what to expect from the Navy League’s Sea-Air-Space conference and tradeshow April 8-10, 2024, and a look at the week ahead; and the cohosts of the Cavas Ships podcast — Chris Cavas and Chris Servello — discuss what they expect to hear from US Navy leaders at the SAS this week with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian. And to learn more about HII, visit the company at Sea-Air-Space, booth 1323.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss the drop in the S&P as US job growth beats expectations again, Boeing awards it’s outgoing ceo a nearly $32 million pay package — 45 percent raise — as it looks for a new boss, the industry debates why a new jetliner would cost Boeing $50 billion to develop, GE Aerospace becomes a standalone company after spinning of GE Vernova power business, NATO seeks a more central role in arming Ukraine with a new five-year, $100 billion fund, Britain considers an arms embargo on Israel after British humanitarian workers are killed in an Israeli airstrike, and on the eve of Navy’s premiere annual conference the service’s secretary criticizes shipbuilders for being behind schedule on programs.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss Japan’s perceptions of Washington as outlook for US and allied support for Ukraine remains uncertain, takeaways from NATO’s 75th anniversary celebration and what to expect when alliance leaders gather in Washington in July as calls for Congress to approve the Ukraine supplemental grow, US and allied willingness to buckle to Russian intimidation and whether the revelation that Moscow is behind the “Havana Syndrome” high-power directed energy attacks on Americans at home and aboard will drive a tougher line on Russia’s assassinations and non-lethal attacks mount, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s six-day visit to the United States next week and what to expect from the upcoming Japan-Philippines-US meeting, President Biden and Xi Jinping talk as Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s visits China, Taiwan suffers its worst earthquake in decades as its former leader is hosted by Chinese leaders, and Washington delivers Israel an ultimatum after seven aid workers were killed in a Gaza air strike.

For decades, the American military has struggled with how to prepare for a diversity of conflicts. The Hudson Institute’s Bryan Clark and Dan Patt have a new paper on what they call hedge forces – capabilities to deter or prevail in specific scenarios without having to tailor the whole force for those operations. Bryan joins us to describe the concept and how it applies particularly to airpower. And we have the week’s headlines. Powered by GE!

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses, discusses the latest in the Russo-Ukrainian War including Russia’s recent strikes on Ukrainian cities plunging more than 1 million into darkness and Kyiv’s 800-mile drone attack on a key Russian unmanned aircraft factory, the latest on the front as Russians grind forward and Ukrainians increasingly dig in, whether Vladimir Putin will use the ISIS-K attack in Moscow as justification for a large scale mobilization as Volodymyr Zelenskyy lowers the draft age to replenish his force, the growing ubiquity of first-person video drones on the future of land warfare, and how to respond to Russian extraterritorial actions from assassinations to use of high-power directed energy weapons on Americans at home and aboard with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the prospects for the Ukraine supplemental that Kyiv and the US defense industrial base need, the latest on the Russo-Ukrainian War, whether the revelation that Russia is perpetrating the “Havana Syndrome” directed-energy weapons against Americans at home and abroad changes Washington’s urgency in better standing up to Moscow, how Israel’s strikes on Iranian leaders in Syria changes the undeclared war between Jerusalem and Tehran, Hanwha’s proposal to by Austal Ocean, recap of Hudson Institute’s unmanned systems event last week, political and economic factors in the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, what to look for at the Navy League’s Sea-Air-Space conference and trade show next week, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss a record-setting month on Wall Street, Texas opens an investigation into Sprit AeroSystems as even President Biden pokes fun at Boeing, Larry Culp says he’s staying at GE, the EU’s air safety regulator warns of growing risks as his budget is squeezed, lessons from Gulfstream as the FAA certifies the G700 and the company focuses on the G800, France supplies more weapons to Ukraine as its defense minister warns defense firms to step up deliveries or face requisitioning, Paris reaffirms its support to help Brazil build nuclear attack submarines now some 16 years after the deal was first announced, and Indonesia orders two offshore patrol vessels from Indonesia.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the bipartisan “minibus” deal that kept government open but enraged GOP firebrands like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green who started the process to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson as he promises to pass the Ukraine supplemental so America keeps its promise to Kyiv, Vladimir Putin’s move to blame the ISIS-K terror attack in Moscow on Ukraine, Russia refuses to explain why one of its missiles entered Polish airspace, the call by Sweden’s foreign minister for a tougher stance on Russia, despite new trade and cyber tensions driven by Beijing US CEOs are feted by Xi Jinping, China pressures the Philippines even as Manila and Washington ink a new security pact, US, Japanese and Korean officials prepare for a new summit, America abstains on the UN’s latest ceasefire call prompting Bibi Netanyahu to call off his Washington visit and press ahead with his Rafah ground assault and Washington and the world mourn the sudden passing of former vice presidential candidate and Sen. Joe Lieberman.

The U.S. Air National Guard is busy worldwide, not only augmenting American air capabilities but building allied air force effectiveness as well. The Guard’s commander, Lieutenant General Michael Loh, joins us with the latest on what they are doing around the world. And we have headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

Dr. Darrell Bricker, the CEO of Ipsos Public Affairs who also advises on the agenda for the annual Halifax International Security Forum, discusses the latest polling on the US presidential race, whether third party candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will skew the race toward Donald Trump, global perceptions of America based on who’s in the White House, key drivers for US and European electorates, rise of the right in Europe, support for Ukraine as the conflict enters its third year, view of Russia and China, sense of pressing national security and where terrorism ranks on the scale of threats, and how its campaign against Hamas in Gaza in the wake of the Oct. 7 attacks is undermining global support for Israel, and how a declining population will impact China’s future with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Eugene Rumer, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discusses the implications of the ISIS-K terror attack in Moscow on Russia’s prosecution of the Ukraine war in the wake of Vladimir Putin’s allegation that Kyiv was responsible for the attack — a charge Ukrainian and Western leaders deny — the impact of the attack on Putin’s legitimacy, whether tightened sanctions will change Moscow’s course, whether and if so how Russia will respond to ISIS-K, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy discuss Boeing’s leadership changes as the giant struggles to overcome quality and program execution problems, merits of union representation on the company’s board, notes on Congress’ last-minute appropriations measures to keep government open including the Pentagon, the upcoming election and its defense implications, takeaways from HII’s Investor Day, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss defense and aerospace stock performance on the year’s best week on Wall Street, Washington keeps the government open, confronted with problems on both its commercial aircraft AND defense programs, Boeing says it will post losses of between $4-5 billion in 2024 as it divests small pieces of its defense business, the Chinese government’s decision to strip its computers and networks of US chips and software, the FBI says passengers aboard the Alaska Airlines’ Boeing 737 Max jetliner that suffered a door plug blowout out might be crime victims, Britain and Australia strike a $3 billion partnership between ASC and BAE Systems to build Australia’s nuclear attack submarines, GCAP criticism and Sweden’s fighter plans, and a takeaways from one of the best commercial aerospace conferences in the world, The Aerospace Event in Beverly Hills last week.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the “mini bus” appropriations bill to avert a government shutdown, the Ukraine supplemental, the Biden administration’s 2025 budget request, “war fever” in Europe and what it means, Vladimir Putin’s reelection and decision to fire his Navy chief after unmanned Ukrainian attacks decimate Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, testimony by US leaders in the IndoPacific on how China, Russia, North Korea and Iran are increasingly working together, Britain and Australia sign security deal that includes a $3 billion deal between Australian Shipbuilding Company and BAE Systems to prepare for Canberra’s future fleet of nuclear powered attack submarines, and week after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Bibi Netayahu, the Israel leader who is an astute US political can declare victory having secured a bipartisan invitation to address the US Congress as as Washington goes through the optical exercise of engineering a UN ceasefire resolution.

Continuing our breakdown of the FY25 DoD budget request, we hear from one of the most insightful budget teams in town – the crew from the Center for a New American Security. And we have headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

On this month’s innovation conversation to highlight key topics in the countdown to the Apex technology and innovation conference next January in National Harbor, MD, sponsored by Clarion Defence, Aditi Kumar, the deputy director for strategy, policy and national security partnerships at the Defense Innovation Unit, discusses DIU 3.0, changes to the organization announced at the recent SXSW conference, better focusing innovation efforts across DoD, how to deliver game-changing capabilities to warfighters quickly and at scale, changing how the Pentagon acquires capabilities, the game-changing rationale of the Replicator initiative to quickly field large quantities of autonomous systems, harnessing the innovative capabilities of allies and partners to solve common challenges and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Eugene Rumer, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discuss what to expect from Vladimir Putin’s fifth six-year term, the impact of protests across the nation, the prospect of another mass mobilization, the impact on the Ukraine war, Kyiv’s increasing use of long-range unmanned systems to strike strategic targets deep in Russia, how to interpret Moscow’s nuclear rhetoric and grapple with the effectiveness of its malign global information efforts, and Putin’s message to the FSB to hold to account those he considers traitors wherever they are with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses with further analysis on the Biden administration’s FY 2025 $defense budget request, the merits of cutting the Roger of one nuclear powered attack submarine to underwrite investment to increase submarine production for America and Australia, the implications for defense if tax increases are off the table to reduce the national debt, Boeing’s commercial and defense woes and how a turnaround can be executed, Leonardo DRS’ investor day, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss impact of higher than expected inflation and producer prices on Wall Street dashing hopes of interest rate cuts anytime soon, the federal investigation into Boeing is ramping up as airlines now project losses because of slower deliveries from the jetmaker and groundings combined with new delays on KC-46 Pegasus tankers and Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk trainers, the Pentagon clears Lockheed Martin for full-rate F-35 Lighting II fighter production, France’s Emmanuel Macron, Germany’s Olaf Scholtz and Poland’s Donald Tusk agree to help increase weapons production in Ukraine as quickly as possible, US weapons makers are increasing production, Rheinmetall earnings, the Netherlands picks France’s Naval Group over ThyssenKrupp and Saab to build its future submarines, SpaceX launches its third starship as reports say the company landed a top secret contract for hundreds of spy satellites, and a look ahead to Joanna Speed’s The Aerospace Event conference in Los Angeles on March 19.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the Biden administration’s $849.8 billion FY 2025 defense budget request, an update on appropriations and the supplemental for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, reporting that Donald Trump if elected would withdraw America from NATO, Japan, South Korea and let China have Taiwan, what next for the House’s TikTok ban, India’s new ballistic missile with multiple warheads, Senate Majority Chuck Schumer’s criticism of Israel’s campaign in Gaza, Palestinian leaders and Bibi Netanyahu, and Israel’s offensive against Rafah.

The Defense & Aerospace Report team dives into the FY25 DoD budget proposal with insight, analysis, illumination, and perhaps a wisecrack or two. It’s powered by GE!

On this week’s Technology Report, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the executive director of the Cyber Solarium 2.0 project, discusses the cyber elements of the Biden administration’s FY 2025 budget request including planned an government-wide increase in spending to $13 billion and a $5 billion addition at DoD that would bring spending to $14 billion, the impact of continuing resolutions on the Pentagon and government’s ability to plan and execute, how to better harness artificial intelligence to improve cybersecurity, analysis of the Pentagon’s budget request specifically the $10 billion Pacific Defense Initiative, and who will pick up the mantle from Rep. Mike Gallagher, R-Wisc., after his retirement next year with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses, discusses the still-static nature of the Russo-Ukraine war, the signal President Biden sent by featuring support for Ukraine and allies at the top of his State of the Union address. whether soaring Russian casualty rates will impact Vladimir Putin’s reelection prospects, how both sides are increasingly using unmanned systems almost none of which are truly autonomous, how Russia uses nuclear intimidation to shape its adversaries’ strategies including the United States and European states like Germany, and Moscow’s threats against Sweden as the Scandinavian nation becomes NATO’s 32nd member with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the Biden administration’s FY 2025 $849.8 billion defense budget request, the importance of the Ukraine supplemental to rearming the Pentagon, takeaways from President Biden’s state of the union address, alternative defense futures to ponder, takeaways from GE Aerospace’s investor day and congressional hearing on Army Aviation, and and a look at the week ahead; and Tim Chrisman, the executive director of the Foundation for the Future who is also a partner in the space practice at the Distinctive Edge Partners PR firm, discusses the winners of the innovation competition at this year’s SXSW gathering in Austin with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss another big week on Wall Street as Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell says interest rates will be cut this year, impact of President Biden’s state of the union address at home and aboard, more bad news for Boeing as Justice Department reportedly opens criminal investigation into blowout of a door plug on an Alaska Airlines 737 Max jet, Federal Aviation Administration confirms rudder pedal incident on a United 737 Max jet, implications of Biden’s comments seeking to close business aviation loopholes, update on Dassault Aviation’s results including Falcon business jet and Rafale fighter production rates, Palantir beats Raytheon to win US Army’s TITAN battlefield targeting system contract, Russia discloses conversation among German generals discussing the export of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine and how France and Britain help Kyiv target the weapons, Moscow’s brazen missile strike that landed 300 feet from Greece and Ukraine’s leaders in Odesa, and United Airlines recent spate of emergency landings and incidents.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the House passage of a $460 billion appropriations bill to avert a government shutdown, outlook for Ukraine funding as President Biden makes case for more assistance for Ukraine in the State of the Union address, analysis of the SOTU including reaction to the address in America and around the world, Biden’s announcement that the US military would build a temporary pier to allow international humanitarian aid to enter Gaza from the sea, an empowered Russia fires a ballistic missile at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis that lands 300 feet from the two leaders as they tour Odesa, China ends its ritual annual leadership press conference, Super Tuesday takeaways including whether third party candidates will help Donald Trump return to office, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell endorses the former president who insulted him and his family, and the final report from the commission to reform the Pentagon’s Planning Programming Budget Execution system.

For decades, AeroVironment has been a company that does things more than a little differently. Their CEO, Wahid Nawabi, joins us to talk about CCAs, Replicator, the new shape of airpower, and where his company fits in. And of course, we have headlines. Powered by GE!

On this week’s Technology Report, Brandon Tseng, the cofounder and president of Shield AI, what differentiates the company in a crowded field. the Pentagon’s innovation drive, how to accelerate programs, the need to change the requirements process, how small companies can remain competitive in AI in an era of giants, the company’s growth plans with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this month’s Land Warfare program, sponsored by American Rheinmetall, Gabe Camarillo, the under secretary of the US Army, joins Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss how life under prolonged continuing resolutions is impeding America’s ability to rearm itself as Russia, China, Iran and North Korea increasingly field dangerous capabilities, why supplemental funding is vital not just to support its Ukrainian ally but also cover the cost of bolstering the Pentagon’s weapons stocks, lessons from the Ukraine war that are already shaping the future of the force, a look at the Army’s plans to transform its great power capabilities and how that plan will be reflected in the service’s upcoming budget request, the Army’s role in the Indo-Pacific, and the rationale behind the cancellation of the Future Armed Reconnaissance Aircraft program.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest continuing resolution to forestall a government shutdown, how an unprecedented half-year of continuing resolutions and delays to the Ukraine supplemental is complicating the Pentagon’s ability to rearm, the global implications of US presidential candidates and lawmakers parroting Vladimir Putin’s talking points, the prospect that Kyiv will fall if US aid ends or is further delayed, what to expect from the Biden administration’s upcoming budget request to be submitted to Congress on March 11, news reports that Boeing is considering acquiring Spirit AeroSystems, BWXT’s different business model, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss defense and aerospace stock performance last week as markets roared, Boeing considers buying Spirit AeroSystems, Leonardo and MTU results, BoA’s report on what the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance aircraft might look like, Russia’s nuclear threats prompts German Chancellor Olaf Scholtz denies sending Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine and criticizes Britain and France for escalating tensions with Moscow by furnishing Kyiv with precision weapons.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss Congress’ move to avert a government shutdown with another continuing resolution, outlook for Ukraine supplemental, Vladimir Putin’s growing confidence as he eliminates adversaries at home as his nuclear threats fracture NATO and messaging garners GOP support, Europe and America reject French President Emmanuel Macron’s suggestion to consider deploying troops to Ukraine as Russia again threatens nuclear attack prompting worry in Washington and German Chancellor Olaf Scholtz to deny cruise missiles for Kyiv and accuse France and Britain of escalation, EU president says its time to consider tapping frozen Russian assets to arm and rebuild Ukraine, Australian intelligence discover that former lawmaker worked directly for Beijing, and another bloody week in Gaza as Israel starves Gaza, steps up operations against the West Bank and prepares an offensive against Lebanon.

The Air Force Special Operations community has gathered in Florida for its Special Air Warfare Symposium this week. AFSOC is still busy around the world, and we where they are and where they’re going with their commander, Lieutenant General Tony Bauernfeind. And we have the week’s headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses, discusses the status of the Ukraine-Russia front as Moscow increases pressure and Ukraine uses more novel means to defend itself, whether Europe can fill the void as Congress continues to stall more aid to Kyiv, how commercial Western assistance can help Ukraine develop and field more effective weapons, whether adopting President Emmanuel Macron’s proposal to station training forces in Ukraine would deter further Russian aggression, efficacy of the Biden administration’s 500 new sanctions on Russia in the wake of Moscow’s decision to kill opposition leader Alexei Navalny, and whether a shift by landlocked Transnistria toward Moscow would have a meaningful impact on the war with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

Dr. Mark Lewis, the chief of the Purdue Applied Research Institute, discusses the drive to advance national security research through five new labs — microelectronics, hypersonics, energetics, infrastructure and innovation, and tech acceleration and innovation — an update on hypersonic propulsion and control technologies, microelectronics for legacy systems as well as high temperature applications like hypersonic weapons, and the approach needed to accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses prospects for a government shutdown, the case for a Ukraine supplemental and what the Biden administration should do to help Kyiv absent legislation, the impact of 500 new sanctions on Russia, European defense spending outlook as European governments strain under entitlement demands, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss another big week on Wall Street; budget uncertainty in Washington as well as France and Germany; the slow pace of Western rearmament, leadership changes at Boeing to improve production quality; whether business travel will decline with changes in how many work and high pricing; earnings analysis as BAE Systems, Garmin, Hensoldt, Hexcel, MTU, and Rolls-Royce report; Washington’s 500 new sanctions on Russia in the wake of the killing of opposition leader Alexei Navalny; Hungary’s decision to buy 18 Saab Gripen C/D fighters that it started leasing in 2001 as signal of Budapest’s approval of Sweden’s NATO membership; and takeaways from the Singapore Airshow.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, CavasShips Podcast cohost and Provision Advisors founder Chris Servello, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss Biden administration’s imposition of 500 new sanctions on Russia in the wake of the Alexei Navalny’s killing as Western government’s negotiated a deal that would have released the opposition leader and others from captivity in exchange for Russian spies and thugs, what governments need to do as Russia grows more aggressive in waging war on Western nations from assassinations on their soil to malign information operations, how to destablize Vladimir Putin and his increasingly brittle regime by wooing senior Russian leaders with eased sanctions and financial incentives, revelation of the global scope and details of China’s cyber espionage worldwide, global implications of America’s continuing support for Israel as Jerusalem continue strikes on Gaza and indefinite military occupation while rejecting two-state solution, and Armenia’s decision to suspect participation in the Collective Security Treaty Organization.

We usually look at the future of airpower. In this episode, we look at the past – at least as the public sees it. The Apple TV series Masters of the Air depicts bomber combat in the Second World War. Is it realistic? And what will the public learn from it about airpower, for better or worse? We ask aviation historian Doug Birkey. Dr. Tom Karako brings us up to date on the air war in Ukraine. And some of the week’s headlines. Powered by GE!

On today’s Strategy Series program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Eugene Rumer, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discuss the tenth anniversary of Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territory and the second anniversary of Moscow’s attempt to seize Kyiv, the imperative to get far tougher on Russia that’s been at war with the West for decades, how to punish an increasingly emboldened Vladimir Putin who killed opposition leader Alexei Navalny and assassinated a Russian defector in Spain, the imperative for Congress to approve more military assistance to Ukraine, why actively destabilizing the Putin regime must become a priority, and roundup of views from Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkey with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses takeaways from the Munich Security Conference as Vladimir Putin kills his political adversary Alexei Navalny and Ukraine looses ground as GOP leaders continue to block aid for Kyiv, analysis of the US Air Force’s reorganization to better prepare for great power conflict and update on the competition to quickly field a Collaborative Combat Aircraft; and Joy Schoffler of Distinctive Edge Partners on the competition among innovative cyber, space, AI and renewable energy companies on the sidelines of the SXSW gathering in Austin next month with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss market’s new worries about higher shipping costs as traffic diverts around Africa in wake of Houthi Red Sea attacks, China’s deepening economic woes, Airbus earnings and what results mean for Boeing, US Air Force’s reoptimization for great power conflict, drive to accelerate programs like Next Generation Air Dominance as well as move to allow three of five Collaborative Combat Aircraft competitors to advance in Increment One of the effort, Ukraine begs for more aid and strikes security and arms deals with France and Germany as GOP lawmakers balk on helping Kyiv, and expectations for the Singapore Air Show.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss Senate passage of a $95 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan and whether growing Russian provocations from the killing of opposition leader Alexei Navalny to prospect of nuclear-tipped antisatellite weapons will prompt a GOP-led House will follow suit, how the administration needs to respond to Russia’s growing empowerment in the wake of Republican obstructionism and pro-Russia rhetoric by President Trump and leading GOP lawmakers, Estonia’s warning  Russia may attack the alliance within a decade, the second anniversary of the administration’s productive Indo-Pacific strategy, how Washington needs to influence Bibi Netanyahu, and political implications of Democrat Tom Suozzi’s win in New York, retirement of key members like Wisconsin Republican Rep. Mike Gallagher, and former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan’s senate bid.

The Air Force has announced a major reorientation toward great power conflict, but that’s not all they’re doing. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall discusses his priorities and the next steps to change the air service. And Mitchell Institute Dean LtGen (Ret.) David Deptula recaps the AFA warfare symposium. Plus a headline or two. Powered by GE!

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Tim Heath and Barry Pavel of RAND Corporation join host Vago Muradian to discuss the federally-funded research and development center’s new report — “U.S.-China Rivalry in a Neomedieval World: Security in an Age of Weakening States” — that was co-authored by Heath as well as Weilong Kong and Alexis Dale-Huang.

Air Force Chief of Staff General Dave Allvin just announced a major re-orienting of the service to focus on great power competition. In this special episode, General Allvin explains the background and details of his proposals with the Air Power Podcast team.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the global impact of a chaotic week in Washington, growing European defense investment as allies gird for return to power of anti-NATO and pro-Putin Donald Trump, what to expect from three key meetings in Europe — the Ukraine Contact Group, NATO foreign ministers and Munich Security Conference — tempering comparisons that today’s security environment mirrors the 1930s, why turmoil in the Middle East after Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack on Israel hasn’t escalated into a wider regional war, South Korea tapped to provide air defense for Saudi Arabia, recap of key reports issued last week, what to expect at the Air and Space Forces Association’s Warfare Symposium next week, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss performance of the group as the Standard & Poor’s 500 hits an all time high, more production problems on 50 new Boeing jets, Spirit AeroSystems suspends 2024 guidance, whether United Airlines will cancel its order for 100 Max 10 jets, after billions of dollars in investment, the the US Army cancels its Future Armed Reconnaissance Aircraft, Babcock and Saab capital markets days, and Ukraine’s new military leadership.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss chaotic week in Washington as Republicans torpedo their own border-Ukraine deal that Kyiv desperately needs, the Supreme Court again hears a case involving former President Trump, a special counsel labels President Biden “well meaning” but with “a poor memory,” update on whether a stand-alone Ukraine-Israel-Gaza aid measure is possible, how chaos in the world’s most important nation is being used by China and Russia to advance their global narratives, Volodymyr Zelenskyy replaces his popular top general, what the administration can do to get aid to Ukraine without congressional approval, former Polish President Lech Walesa’s call for US leaderships and step up its propaganda game, China’s economic woes worsen as Beijing spreads a bizarre rumor of civil war in Texas, and the search for a deal to end fighting in Gaza.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems is making news all over the place, and their president Dave Alexander joins us to talk CCA, advanced air launched effects, and more. And John Tirpak previews next week AFA warfare symposium. Plus a big week for headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

David Schild, the executive director of the Printed Circuit Board Association of America, discusses the push to convince Congress to back legislation investing in printed circuit boards; and SAIC Chief Technology Officer Bob Ritchie discusses how the company’s cloud-based command and control contract with the US Air Force can serve as a model for getting big things done fast with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses how Ukraine can defend itself and wage offensive operations in the absence of US support, the unprecedented role of Chinese industry in Ukrainian capabilities, how Russia is improving its capabilities, the spat between the Ukrainian president and his chief of defense staff, and the Pentagon’s Replicator effort with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses appropriations, budget and supplemental outlook, analysis of Boeing’s earnings report and defense business, US arms exports, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss strong US jobs growth and declining inflation, the paradox of increasing air travel demand and declining fares, HII’s strong results, Boeing’s decision to suspend financial guidance for 2024 as management focuses on improving quality and withdrawal of request for a limited exemption for the 737 Max 7 engine inlet deicing system, the EU’s $54 billion economic aid package for Ukraine, and Washington’s decision to approve 40 F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters for Turkey and 40 F-35 Lightning II strike jets for Greece.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the bipartisan tax bill that passed the House, a border deal to clear more Ukraine funding hangs in the balance as the House moves to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the EU approves $54 billion in economic aid for Kyiv, Volodymyr Zelenskyy fires his popular chief of defense staff Gen. Valeri Zaluzhny, Washington telegraphs strikes on Iranian proxies in Syria and Iraq in retaliation for Tehran-backed militia’s attack that killed three Americans and wounded 40, Beijing purges its top rocket scientist as US and Chinese leaders meet, and the Gaza war continues as the Biden administration sanctions four Israelis for their role in West Bank violence against Palestinians and floats recognition of Palestinian state to pressure Jerusalem, and an update on the presidential race.

Viable electric aircraft have been on the horizon for a while now. But it looks like the first customer might well be the United States Air Force. We’ll talk with a pioneer in the field, Kyle Clark, the head of Beta Technologies, whose Alia eVTOL plane just concluded testing with AFWERX and is in line for procurement. Plus headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

Sally deSwart, the managing director of Clarion Defence, discusses the new Apex innovation and technology conference in Washington, the events that will pave the way for January 2025 gathering, and what will make it unique; and Dr. Jimmy “Reverend” Jones, the Air Force’s service’s warfighting applications lead for STITCHES — System-of-Systems Technology Integration Tool Chain for Heterogeneous Electronic Systems; Shyam Sankar, Palantir’s chief technology officer; Colin Carroll who works strategy and growth at Anduril Industries; and Dr. Wes Naylor, Helicon Chemical’s CEO discuss how accelerate innovation at the Hudson Institute with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

Eric Fanning, the president and CEO of the Aerospace Industries Association, discusses the budget and supplemental outlook, the Biden administration’s first ever National Defense Industrial Strategy, and what to expect at the Singapore Air Show; and on the first installment of our monthly land warfare segment, sponsored by American Rheinmetall, Dan Roper, a retired US Army colonel who is now the director of national security studies at the Association of the United States Army’s Land Warfare Institute, discusses lessons from the Ukraine war including the reality that people, equipment and weapons matter, look at the US Army’s Indo-Pacific role. and the services modernization plans with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the legislative implications of Donald Trump’s growing lead in the GOP presidential primary race, prospects for the Ukraine supplemental as lawmakers work toward a immigration deal and the White House says it would accept border closure to fund Kyiv, takeaways as leading companies report 2023 earnings and what to expect from disclosures this week including from Boeing, and a look at the week ahead; and Michael Harpin, the competitions section chief in the Cyber Defense Education and Training branch at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, discusses the agency’s fifth annual President’s Cup cyber competition with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss another strong week on Wall Street on reports that the US economy grew faster than anticipated in the last 2023 quarter, earnings reports, Boeing’s CEO appears on Capitol Hill as Alaska and United airlines CEOs blast the jetmaker and Sen. Maria Cantwell announces hearings, NATO orders $1.2 billion in new artillery shells as hopes of more Ukraine aid from America continue to dim, US Navy secretary suggests Britain needs a bigger military, UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps argues for more ships and the Chief of the General Staff says it’s time for conscription.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss how Donald Trump is complicating a border-Ukraine aid deal and appropriations as the Pentagon runs out of assistance for Kyiv, whether America’s allies in Europe and Asia can keep Ukraine afloat until Washington gets its act together, the implications for American power and the global rules based order if Russia wins, Hungary pumps the brakes on Sweden’s NATO membership after Turkey approves Stockholm’s accession, implications of China’s weakened economy as well as population loss and increasingly unpopular leadership, North Korea’s recent nuclear saber rattling, congressional reaction to Biden administration’s strikes against Houthi targets, Israel’s continued rejection of peace efforts as Bibi Netanyahu continues to reject peace efforts and blames Qatar for funding Hamas — even though Doha did so with Jerusalem’s blessing — and New Hampshire primary takeaways.

Operation Poseidon Archer, the U.S. effort to negate the Houthi threat to shipping, is all about naval aviation. How is it going and where is it going? We ask the Sagamore Institute’s Dr. Jerry Hendrix, a retired US Navy captain, naval aviator and strategist. CNA’s Sam Bendett updates the drone air war in Ukraine. And we even have some headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

On this week’s Technology Report, Dr. Dave Young, the chief operating officer officer of CAES — Cobham Advanced Electronic Systems — discusses electronic warfare lessons from the Ukraine war, how US capabilities compare to Russian and Chinese ones, the need to increase training with closely held EW systems before conflict to better prepare commanders on how best to employ them, scaling production through greater automation, impact of the CHIPS Act and the additional investment necessary in other vital fields with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

Dr. Keoki Jackson, the senior vice president and general manager at the National Security Sector at MITRE, discusses the report the federally funded research develop center crafted with the Aspen Strategy Group — “A Sum Greater Than Its Parts: Integrated Deterrence and Strategic Competition” with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the dimming outlook for Ukraine supplemental funding and the global implications of Washington rejecting more resources for Kyiv, the right approach to understanding geopolitical challenges, and a look at the week ahead; and Bryan Clark of the Hudson Institute discusses the think tank’s Jan. 24 conference — Solving Operational Problems with Today’s Technology — the first of a new series on innovation with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss another big week on Wall Street, budget outlook in Washington as worries mouth regarding more Ukraine funding and what that tells allies and partners worldwide, growing number of parked aircraft as ticket prices drop, delivery and production numbers, Boeing taps the former head of naval nuclear reactors as its quality adviser after Alaska Airlines incident, Britain’s bilateral security pact with Ukraine, and a second flight of Northrop Grumman’s B-21 Raider bomber.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss a short-term deal to keep government open as the prospect for Ukraine supplemental funding evaporates, Britain strikes a security pact with Ukraine as Kyiv’s losses among its most experienced troops mounts as Western weapons and ammunition run out, ways to keep funding Ukraine in absence of supplemental, US continues strikes on Houthis as Iran and Pakistan exchange strikes, DPP wins in Taiwan but loses control of parliament to KMT, Israel continues to brush off US peace efforts as cracks grow within Israeli government over how and whether to save hostages, and the GOP race after the Iowa Caucuses.

Dr. Brendan Mulvaney, Director of the China Aerospace Studies Institute at National Defense University, looks at China’s 2023 in the air and what’s likely in 2024. Plus this week’s headlines in airpower. Powered by GE!

Dr. Jerry McGinn, the director of the Baroni Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University, and Steve Grundman of the Atlantic Council and the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University — who both lead the Pentagon’s industrial policy office — discuss the Biden administration’s first ever National Defense Industrial Strategy that was unveiled by last week with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

Good morning and here’s the blurb for today’s show — On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses Congress’ efforts to negotiate appropriations to fund the US government, look ahead to earnings as companies prepare to report earnings, assessing the pace of the Pentagon’s acquisition of complex weapons like Tomahawk cruise missiles, and a look at the week ahead; and Chris Servello, the co-host of the Cavas Ships podcast, discusses takeaways from the Surface Navy Association’s 36th national symposium with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss possible impact of higher than expected December inflation and rising oil prices in the wake of Houthi attacks on international shipping, Washington’s budget deal, increased FAA overnight over Boeing’s manufacturing after loose bolts found on 737 Max 9 jets — now rebranded the 737-9 — Berlin drops ban on exporting Eurofighters to Saudi Arabia, and Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works rolls out its latest experimental jet for NASA — the X-59.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss squabbling over recent bipartisan budget deal, US and its allies strike Houthi missile sites that have been targeting Red Sea shipping, outlook for Ukraine aid as Kyiv is increasingly worries additional US and European help might not be coming, Taiwan holds elections, Israel continues to brush off US efforts to broker a peace deal, the Washington tempest in the wake of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization, and the Iowa Caucus.

We look at the year ahead in airpower with a couple of expert seers: Mitchell Institute’s Heather Penney and Steve Trimble of Aviation Week. Plus this week’s airpower headlines. Powered by GE!

Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Dr. Tom Karako of the Center for Strategic and International Studies discuss how Russia is stepping up its attacks on Ukraine and how Kyiv is taking the war to Russia while improving its defenses, increasingly critical role of nations like Japan in providing Patriot missiles as America and Europe inch toward approving more than $100 billion in military and economic assistance, Ukrainian efforts to dramatically increase drone production, how much longer Russia can sustain such high casualty rates, and details about Deputy Defense Secretary Kath Hicks’ Replicator effort with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program Chris Kastner, the HII president and CEO, discusses the shipbuilding outlook as the Biden administration and Congress strike a budget deal; inflation, supply chain and workforce; carrier, amphibious and other ship programs; industrial base investment and accelerating submarine production; improving skilled trades retention; and how the company’s growth in technical services and IT is improving it’s shipbuilding capabilities with Cavas Ships co-host Chris Cavas and Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses big themes for 2024 and looks at the week ahead; and Chris Cavas and Chris Servello, the co-hosts of the Cavas Ships podcast, discuss what they expect to hear from US Navy leaders at the Surface Navy Association’s 36th national symposium Jan. 9-11 with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss the big stories of 2024 including shifting economic expectations, global instability as defense spending driver, air travel demand, the FAA grounding of Boeing’s 737 Max 9 after an inflight depressurization incident as well as other near misses says about the aircraft production and air commercial air transport system, and impact of global elections on international security.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to look at what to expect in 2024 and their predictions on the stories to watch during the coming year.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic advisory consultancy, join host Vago Muradian to discuss the key events of 2023 that will shape the coming year. This is our last program before the holidays until we resume coverage on Jan. 5.

On today’s program, sponsored by GE Aerospace, the award winning hosts of the Defense & Aerospace Report’s award winning podcasts — Chris Cavas and Chris Servello of Cavas Ships, Laura Winter of the The Downlink, and JJ Gertler, the co-host of The Air Power Podcast — review the big stories from 2023 that will shape the coming year with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Technology Report, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the executive director of the Cyber Solarium 2.0 project, and Chris Cleary who until recently was the US Navy’s principal cyber adviser, discuss the key cyber stories of 2023 that will shape the coming year with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the keys stories in 2023 that will shape the coming year in Washington and around the world.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell,  Dr. Eugene Rumer, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses, discuss the key Russia stories in 2023 that will shape the coming year with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners with a year-end review of business, geopolitical and congressional news with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as Wall Street surges to record territory after the Federal Reserve says will cut borrowing rates over the coming three years; takeaways from the $886 billion National Defense Authorization Act, the rising cost of the US Air Force’s Ground Based Strategic Deterrent by Northrop Grumman; Boeing and Raytheon get new top leaders; Britain, Italy and Japan sign a treaty to partner on the Global Combat Air Program; the five competitors for USAF’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft contest; and Chemring, British tanks and outlook for Ukraine aid.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss what’s now that the $886 billion National Defense Authorization Act is law, how the administration and Senate Democrats are working with GOP on a border deal to secure Ukraine funding next year, appropriations prospects as measures funding government set to expire in January, Vladimir Putin’s claim to be winning in Ukraine as EU opens accession process with Kyiv and Hungary blocks $50 billion in European aid for Ukraine, why US policymakers have to pay closer attention to Russia’s alliance with North Korea, implications of the White House backing a longer Israeli campaign against Hamas after initially criticizing Jerusalem for using excessive force against civilians in Gaza as the NDAA gave Israel everything it wanted, Xi Jinping’s state visit to Vietnam, Turkey’s renewed opposition to Sweden’s NATO member, and how Donald Trump is already shaping decision-making in Asia and Europe.

The IndoPacific covers more than a third of the Earth, and General Kenneth “Cruiser” Wilsbach is in charge of it all for the U.S. Air Force. He joins us with the latest on that volatile region and how the Air Force is building capabilities there. With coverage powered by GE!

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, Peter Van Praagh, the president of HFX that convenes the annual Halifax International Security Forum, discusses they it’s vital to view China, Russia, Iran and North Korea as the “CRINKs” that constitute a coordinated threat to democracies worldwide, how to craft a nuanced strategy to counter then, the vital importance of giving Ukraine the support it needs to win and so diminish the CRINKs, what exactly constitutes the “international community,” the centrality of more clearly messaging to counter the rise of the hard right, what’s next after Israel’s war on Hamas ends, and how to rally global support to solve big problems with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Lt. Gen. Tom Copinger-Symes, the deputy commander of Britain’s Strategic Command, discusses relearning timeless lessons from the Ukraine war, the changing nature of advantage and imperative to adapt more rapidly, better integrating capabilities across allies and partners, how stripping bureaucracy from major programs like AUKUS can send a deterrence signal as powerful as fielding military capability, why leaders have to change how they lead a new generation of talent, educating senior civilian and military leaders on digital and cyber, getting the AI balance right in warfighting, and why recruiting must change to attract the best talent with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Western gloominess about Ukraine’s progress as the war stagnates, capabilities that the Russians as well as the United States and its allies are preparing to field, analysis of Anduril’s Roadrunner autonomous unmanned aircraft, Vladimir Putin’s announcement that he will run for another six-year term, influence of Russian “mothers’ in Moscow, and the stability of Russian society; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses expectations for the upcoming announcement about DoD’s Replicator effort, the implications of the Venezuelan referendum to annex Guyana's territory, whether frustration with Israel’s war on Hamas will have implications for US arms exports to the Middle East and elsewhere, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets; update on Airbus and Boeing 2023 deliveries; as Boeing passes on a new jetliner, Airbus eyes two programs to succeed A320, and could ask governments for launch aid; Boeing’s decision to eliminate its corporate strategy function; the possible implications of the V-22’s grounding; European view of the Ukraine war as gloominess in Washington grows; and criticism of Germany’s arms export approach.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim, and our producer and Cavas Ships podcast co-host Chris Servello join host Vago Muradian to discuss key elements of the draft $886 billion National Defense Authorization Act; what it will take to pass the emergency supplemental for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan; how much longer Ukraine can survive without additional military aid; lawmakers clear nearly 700 officers for promotion as a dozen four-stars continue to be blocked; the GOP’s three-seat House majority; messages China and other adversaries are drawing from the political theater in Washington; what’s next in Israel’s war against Hamas as international criticism of high civilian casualties mounts; how to stop the Houthi attacks on the USS Carney the Red Sea.

This week, Anduril Industries unveiled its Roadrunner, a new concept in air defense. We’ll hear about it from their Pat Morris. And A.J. Piplica, the CEO of Hermeus, on their new contract and forthcoming hypersonics tests.  Of course, we also have this week’s airpower headlines. With power from GE!

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Jerry Hendrix, a retired US Navy captain and strategist who is now a senior fellow with the Sagamore Institute, discusses his new National Review article — “Save the Military-Industrial Complex: The government must ensure our nation’s war making capacity” — that recommends establishing a White House lead to oversee the rebuilding of America’s defense and commercial industrial capabilities necessary for national security with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Bill LaPlante, the undersecretary of defense for acquisition and Sustainment, and Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall discuss what the Defense Department is doing to rebuild the industrial capacity that they and others maintain is a key to deterrence, reward innovative new suppliers, and artificial intelligence with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discuss takeaways from the 10th annual Reagan National Defense Forum, and look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, Wall Street’s view of the US defense spending outlook as lawmakers work toward a budget deal, Germany’s rearmament drive, Rolls-Royce’s capital markets day and plans to exit electric propulsion, big week for Boeing as 787 deliveries to China are to resume and P-8 Poseidon win in Canada, but the company is eliminated from USAF contest to replace E-4B “doomsday” nuclear command and control planes, more change at Spirit AeroSystems as Textron cuts workforce, and worries over the safety of America’s air traffic control system.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss lawmakers’ moves to lay the foundations for a budget deal, nearly 700 military officers except four-stars could be confirmed soon, what’s next in Israel-Hamas war, NATO reaffirms support for Ukraine, implications of Geert Wilders’ win in the Netherlands, US-India relations in the wake of Washington’s move to prosecute Indian national for trying to assassinate American Sikh leader on US soil, Henry Kissinger’s legacy, and what to expect from this year’s Reagan National Defense Forum.

The less fuel you have to carry and the fewer aircraft needed to support the sharp end of the spear, the more effective you can be in combat. Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Operational Energy Roberto Guerrero tells us how it’s done and blows our mind with some savings numbers. We have this week’s headlines in airpower. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On this week’s Technology Report, Dr. Wes Naylor, a retired US Navy captain and former commander of the Naval Air Warfare Center Training and Simulation Division who is now the CEO of Helicon Chemical, and Chris Servello, the co-host of the Cavas Ships podcast and Defense & Aerospace Report producer who is a co-founder of the Provision Advisor PR firm, discuss takeaways from this year’s Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC), technologies that will shape the future of training and simulation that in turn will shape large-scale synthetic environments and CJADC2, the Biden administration’s new supply chain approach and cyber security, as well as the legacy of Rear Adm. Jim Robb, USN Ret., who as president of the National Defense Industrial Association’s National Training and Simulation Association was a driving force in I/ITSEC’s growth with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, Ilan Berman, the president of the American Foreign Policy Council, discusses his new report — “Challenging Moscow’s Message: Russian Disinformation and the Western Response” — the history of Russian disinformation efforts, its successful Cold War campaigns as well as its more recent efforts, how to counter disinformation, and lessons from Israel’s war on Hamas in the wake of the Oct. 7 terror attacks with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the long-range unmanned systems duel between Ukraine and Russia as Moscow strikes Ukrainians targets and Kyiv responds, Russia’s improvements on Iran’s Shahed-136 attack drones that are not being produced outside Moscow, Russia’s improving capabilities and how Ukraine is adapting, how Iran, North Korea and Turkey are helping the Russian war effort, and Vladimir Putin’s comments at the AI Journey conference; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the six key questions to consider about the future of defense spending as the outlook for the Pentagon budget outlook as well as aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan remains uncertain, what to expect at the upcoming Reagan National Defense Forum, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, the rebound in air travel that surpasses 2019 record, FAA decision to clear Boeing’s 737 Max 10 for flight testing, takeaways from Rheinmetall and Hensoldt’s capital market days, shifting investor sentiment on outlook for defense spending, future of Airbus Defense & Space, implications of jamming over the Middle East and around Ukraine that’s interfering with commercial air travel, and the rationale for a larger generation of unmanned aircraft for the Royal Navy.

On this week’s Technology Report, Mike McNerney, senior vice president for security at cyber insurance startup Resilience Previously and the director of VetsinTech that helps place veterans in tech jobs, discusses the group and its efforts including advocating that Congress fund the Affordable Connectivity Program — “Don’t Pull the Plug on Our Veterans” — the role of cyber insurance companies, the Biden administrations efforts to bolster national cybersecurity including across the defense industrial base, evolving threats, and why holding companies to account for neglecting threats and security can improve the safety of the entire ecosystem with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Darrell Bricker, the CEO of Ipsos Public Affairs, discusses the 30-nation survey of global security trends conducted annually for the Halifax International Security Forum, the nations that are most and least trusted on security issues, and worldwide perceptions of US, Canadian, German, Chinese and Indian leadership; and Dr. Kathleen McInnis, the director of the Smart Women, Smart Power Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, discusses the key takeaways from this year’s Forum from the vital importance that Ukraine prevail over Russia, the awarding of the John McCain Prize to the people of Israel in the wake of the devastating Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack, and the Forum’s Peace with Women Fellows with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s latest attack on Moscow, an update on the war, new sanctions on Russian non-governmental organizations helping the country’s military as well as unmanned ground vehicle maker, as well as the changing role of the country’s social media arms; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses what’s next now that Congress moved in bipartisan fashion to keep the government open through January, takeaways from the Halifax International Security Forum as well as the Biden-Xi meeting at APEC, defense industrial strategy and deterrent, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as inflation declines and Congress funds the government through mid-January, Babcock and BAE Systems earnings as well as AUKUS newsflow, takeaways from President Biden’s summit meeting with China’s Xi Jinping and the Dubai Airshow, Boeing’s decision to eliminate its top strategy post, and the General Atomics Aeronautical Systems’ Mojave short-takeoff and landing variant of the Predator makes history by taking off and landing aboard HMS Prince of Wales.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the bipartisan nature of the continuing resolution that will keep government open through January and what it tells us about what to expect on the authorization and appropriations legislation, how the Senate will circumvent Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s holds on some 450 military promotions, impact of continuing dysfunction prompting large numbers of House and Senate members to retire, impact of delayed Ukraine aid and message it sends worldwide, takeaways from Biden-Xi summit and message the meeting sends to allies in Europe and Asia, next steps in Israel’s campaign against Hamas in Gaza, rising tensions in the West Bank, and US efforts to contain Iran’s regional proxies.

This week, there was an airpower headline everywhere you turned. We cover them rapid-fire with Stacie Pettyjohn of the Center for A New American Security on her interview with Air Force secretary Frank Kendall; Mark Gunzinger of the Mitchell Institute on the B-21’s first flight; and our monthly update on air and missile defense from CSIS’s Dr. Tom Karako. Plus the headlines that have come in since! (All powered by GE Aerospace, of course.)

On this week’s Technology Report, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and a Cyber Solarium 2.0 executive director, discusses President Biden’s executive order on artificial intelligence, next steps to improve its efficacy, the importance of designating the nation’s cloud computing ecosystem as critical national infrastructure, the budget outlook for cyber investment especially at law enforcement agencies like the FBI, takeaways from the recent Lockbit ransomware attack on Boeing, progress on bolstering the US Indo-Pacific Command’s capabilities to better deter China and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. CQ Brown’s statement that Beijing is unlikely to use force to unify with Taiwan with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Jack Watling, senior research fellow for land warfare at the Royal United Services Institute, discusses the reality that Ukraine’s counteroffensive has stalled, the imperative for allies to quickly commit to furnishing Kyiv with the capabilities it needs to win, how Russia has stepped up its game, how a lack of trained and experienced personnel is the critical factor in battlefield success, the message failing to step up to support Ukraine sends to China and other adversaries about the staying power and commitment of the United States and its allies, what Europe can do to step up its game, lessons from Israel’s war on Hamas in Gaza, the terror group’s plan to deliberately put civilians in harms way to impede the Israeli campaign, the challenges of fighting in cities, and Ukraine and Gaza lessons for Taiwan with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s strikes against Russian Navy ships in Crimea, Kyiv’s arsenal of unmanned surface and aerial vehicles, what the revelation of Ukraine’s possible involvement in the destruction of the Nord Stream pipeline says about the country’s global operations against Russia and its interests, and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses prospects for a government shutdown as the current measure to fund the government expires Nov. 17 and outlook for a full-year continuing resolution, how Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s holds on military promotions might impact defense spending, prospect for Ukraine and Israel supplemental funding, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as US firms including RTX and Spirit AeroSystems raise funds, as the US government faces another shutdown threat; third quarter earnings from Airbus, Chemring, Hensoldt, Leonardo, Rheinmetall, TransDigm; Airbus’ relationship with Spirit AeroSystems; pre-reports; Federal Aviation Administration recommends grounding business jets powered by Pratt & Whitney engines that may contain components made of potentially contaminated powdered metal; GE Aerospace pays nearly $10 million to settle accusation it furnished the Army and Navy with parts that were improperly inspected or not to specification; Boeing subjected to apparent ransomeware attack that leads to disclosure of propriety data; and storyline expectations from the Dubai Airshow.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the latest in Washington and around the world.

The same technology that lets Ukrainians defend their nation against Russian tanks was used by Hamas to enable its attack on Israel. The spread of technology; the utility of airpower; the future of US high-tech programs – we talk it all with Dr. Caitlin Lee, who runs the acquisition and technology policy program at The RAND Corporation. We have this week’s headlines in airpower. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, EJ Herold, a retired US Army colonel who is now the chief strategist at the Veterans Coalition International, discusses the new organization’s mission of improving veterans’ services among allied and partner militaries, what we can learn from our allies and partners and what they can learn from America, the need to determine why US suicide rates are high and allied rates are low, how US treatment of service members and veterans have changed over the decades, Ukraine’s veteran needs and the obligation to help those fighting on behalf of allies everywhere, what’s next for the organization and US veterans care with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, Shyam Sankar, the chief technology officer at innovative big data and artificial intelligence firm Palantir, discusses the Biden administration’s new executive order on artificial intelligence, how the Pentagon is changing how it does business, the changes needed as the Defense Department increasingly works with a new generation of founder-owned and driven companies dedicated to national security, accelerating technology development cycles and increasing competition, and the additional changes needed to deliver the capabilities needed to address growing threats with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Ilan Berman of the American Foreign Policy Council discusses what’s next in Israel’s war on Hamas and the kind of Palestinian leadership that will be necessary in Gaza after the conflict; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses conflicting statements between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Chief of Defense Staff Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the capabilities Ukraine will need to counter Russia’s improving weapons, and the Kremlin’s case that there’s only one Vladimir Putin; Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the logic behind House Speaker Mike Johnson decisions, appropriations prospects and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as the Federal Reserve increase in short term borrowing rates slow new jobs growth; earnings trends as Bombardier, BWXT Technologies, Garmin, HII, Howmet, Leonardo DRS, Parsons, Thales report third quarter earnings and Spirit AeroSystems pre-reports; implications of Germany quitting partnership in the SCAF future fighter effort with France and Spain to join the British-led Tempest or Global Combat Air Program with Italy and Japan; the future of combat air capabilities and the balance between manned systems like Tempest, SCAF and the US Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance program and sophisticated unmanned efforts like the Collaborative Combat Aircraft; the apparently different approaches of the two NGAD competitors — Boeing and Lockheed Martin; Lockheed Martin’s “re-scoped” reconnaissance capability; the surging global growth of Korean industry; and Russia’s war on Ukraine.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss GOP move to separate Israel funding from President Biden’s $106 billion request for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan; what’s next for Ukraine funding; update on House and Senate appropriations as current continuing resolution heads toward Nov. 17 expiration; as Washington dickers over supporting Israel and Ukraine in their ours of need, America’s allies question US reliability, handing wins to Russia and China; Senate lawmakers circumvent Sen. Tommy Tuberville to confirm new Navy and Air Force chiefs; Israel continues campaign as nations pressure Jerusalem to spare civilian casualties in its drive to eradicate Hamas; whether Vladimir Putin’s strategy of patience will pay off in Ukraine; what’s next for Kyiv as leaders warn of stalemate; whether China will take advantage of global chaos to advance its regional interests; Biden administration’s new Indo-Pacific economic initiative, and a roundup of regional news.

Whether high-end fighters, swarming drones, or hypersonic weapons, former Director of Defense Research and Engineering and former Air Force chief scientist Dr. Mark Lewis has been deep in the details. He joins us to look at how to turn the latest technologies into successful programs. And NGAD news in this week’s airpower headlines. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On this week’s Technology Report, John CoFrancesco, the founder of Applied AI Company, discusses the Biden administration’s new executive order to ensure safe, secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence, efforts to use the“Political Declaration on the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy” as a foundation for a global standard, why fear of the technology is misplaced, the implications of the SEC’s suit against SolarWinds’ CISO, countering cyber and social efforts by Iran as well as its allies China and Russia, and outlook for constraining irresponsibility of social media firms with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Jerry McGinn, the director of the Baroni Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University, Dr. Bill Greenwalt of the American Enterprise Institute, and Steve Grundman of the Atlantic Council and the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University — who all led the Pentagon’s Manufacturing and Industrial Base Policy office — discuss the DoD’s upcoming industrial strategy, what’s necessary to dramatically increase weapons production, the importance of harnessing commercial industry to manufacture defense products in volume, the Pentagon’s Replicator effort, designing weapons for mass production and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, veteran Israeli security reporter and analyst Barbara Rome on Phase Two of Israel’s military operation to eradicate Hamas in Gaza and how Israeli forces can root out terrorists when Hamas uses innocent Gazans as shields, and the prospect of a wider regional war; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on the Ukraine war; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the defense industry implications of new House Speaker Mike Johnson, takeaways from third quarter 2023 earnings and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as the US economy continues to roar; increasing concern that NATO is approaching the bottom of its weapons barrel as Russia’s war on Ukraine continues and Israel’s needs further strain limited supplies; Lockheed Martin’s decision to not pursue next batch of USAF tankers prompting Airbus to press ahead on its own; analysis of third quarter earnings as Boeing, CACI, CAE, Crane, GD, GE, Hexcel, Kongsberg, L3Harris, MTU, Northrop Grumman, RTX, Saab, Safran, Teledyne, and Textron report; Beta Technologies flies it’s ALIA all-electric aircraft 2,000 miles from Burlington, Vermont, to Elgin Air Force Base in Florida.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss what to expect from new House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., on keeping government open, defense spending and Ukraine aid; how Russia, China, Iran and North Korea are advancing their interests in the wake of Hamas’ terror attacks on Israel; what’s next for Israel’s war on Hamas as Jerusalem struggles to shape a strategy and allies urge caution and prioritize freeing some 220 hostages held in Gaza; China’s surge in air and naval presence in the Taiwan Strait as a Chinese fighter comes within 10 feet of a US Air Force B-52 bomber operating in international airspace over the South China Sea; whether Hungary will follow Turkey in blessing Sweden’s NATO accession; what Poland’s election outcome means for Europe’s other autocrats; Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese’s state visit to Washington and more.

Whether you call them uninhabited, unmanned, or uncrewed, remotely piloted aircraft are making a big impact on today’s hot wars and the thinking about conflicts to come. The company that took UAVs big time in the United States is General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, and their president, Dave Alexander, joins us to look at what they’re doing and what’s coming down the road. And we have this week’s headlines in airpower. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On this week’s Technology Report, David Schild, the executive director of the Printed Circuit Board Association of America, discusses the critical role of printed circuit boards in semiconductor ecosystem and importance of investment in national and allied capabilities and capacity; and Veronika Mudra, the CEO of AltrEgo, a UAV, counter-UAV and cyber company founded by Ukrainian American women, discusses how the California-based company rapidly fields unmanned and cyber capabilities to address needs identified by frontline units with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Thomas Barnett, the author of “America’s New Map,” discusses the challenges the United States faces over the coming decades — including from climate, economic, and demographic change — and how taking cues from history can help shape a more secure future, why America needs to form a union that brings together the north and south of the continent, how Washington should counter the narratives spun by authoritarian powers like China, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Amb. Jim Cunningham, America’s former ambassador to Israel, discusses what’s next for Israel’s war on Hamas as Washington pressures Jerusalem to delay ground offensive to free hostages held by the terror group and avoid a second front with preemptive attack on Hezbollah; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on the Ukraine war; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses chaos on the Hill as the GOP continues searching for a House speaker, latest outlay figures, takeaways from Israel’s war on Hamas, Lockheed Martin’s third quarter earnings and earnings expectations and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week's Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. "Rocket" Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, continuing chaos on Capitol Hill, President Biden's $105 billion aid request for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, Boeing's new agreement with Spirit AeroSystems, Lockheed Martin's third 2023 quarter earnings and expectations for the group as they report over the coming weeks, capabilities Ukraine needs as it employs ATACMS missiles and unconventional means to retake territory occupied by Russia, challenges Israel faces in fighting Hamas in Gaza, and takeaways from the National Business Aviation Association's conference.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, Dr. Kathleen McInnis of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss continuing the GOP’s inability to pick a new speaker, support for President Biden’s request for $105 billion in security assistance for Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan, Biden’s trip to Israel and what’s next Jerusalem prepares ground invasion of Gaza, prospects the conflict will spread, Ukraine’s use of ATACMS and new capabilities Kyiv needs as war enters its 22nd month, impact of Poland’s election, China’s meeting of Belt and Road Initiative partners, Kurt Campbell’s new job as deputy Secretary of State, roundup of Indo-Pacific news.

Across the world, the role of airpower is changing. We see democratization, with small groups and even individuals operating commercial drones in military operations. The US Air Force is moving to make a substantial portion of its fleet uninhabited. Air arms around the world are moving to fifth generation aircraft and in some cases starting on the sixth. To break it all down, we’ll be joined by a man who has propelled a lot of that change – former Air Force A2 and Dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, retired Lieutenant General Dave Deptula. Plus airpower headlines. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, retired Navy Captain Steve Deal, former Deputy Chief of Staff to the Secretary of the Navy and head of the 2018 Education for Seapower Study and Report joins our very own Chris Servello, co-host of the CavasShips podcast to discuss military education and specifically Steve's recent article "What is Broken About Naval Education," with host Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Audrey Kurth Cronin, the director of the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology and the author of the recent article in Foreign Affairs — “How Israel Can Win” as well as the books “Power to the People” and “How Terrorism Ends” — discusses what Israel has to do to achieve its aim of eradicating the Hamas from Gaza, identifying a legitimate successor a group that has terrorized Israeli and Gazans, prospects for a wider war and the role of the United States in averting it, and what a path to reconciliation looks like with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, veteran Israeli journalist and analyst Barbara Rome discusses the end game of Israel’s impending invasion of Gaza, the need for “new thinking” to eradicate Hamas, and the role of international pressure shaping the duration of the Gaza operation; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on the Ukraine war including Russia’s offensive against Avdiivka to relieve pressure on the Ukrainian drive to regain territory in the south, whether the global focus on Israel’s Hamas war distractions attention and support for Kyiv, and more Russian lessons from the Hamas war; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the defense sentiment impact of the new house speaker, outlay projections and defense industry earnings expectations as Lockheed Martin prepares to report on Oct. 17, takeaways from AUSA and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, and Dr. Kevin Michaels, AeroDynamic Advisory’s managing director, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as annual inflation drops but gas and rents rise; how investors are responding to continuing GOP chaos on Capitol Hill and Israel’s expanding war on Gaza in the wake of Hamas’ deadly terror attacks; supply chain issues complicating US ability to act as arsenal of democracies to replenish its depleted stocks as well as Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan; how global defense is changing; lessons from Ukraine and the sophisticated Hamas attack on Israel; implications of Boeing’s delivery of only 15 737 jetliners because of production problems at Spirit AeroSystems; and look at the future of commercial aircraft propulsion.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss continuing chaos in GOP caucus as members deadlocked over new speaker as another shutdown looms, congressional support for more aid for Ukraine, Taiwan and Israel, Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel and what’s next as Prime Minister Netanyahu vows to eradicate the terror group that leads Gaza, whether negotiations to free Israeli and Western hostages will be successful and could pave the way for future peace, whether the catastrophic nature of Israel’s failure to detect the impending attack and the sluggish nature of the IDF’s response diminishes the country’s reputation for military prowess that’s at the heart of its conventional deterrence, when international pressure will prompt Israel to halt Gaza operation, concerns that pro-Hamas demonstrations by Muslim Europeans will fuel a backlash including boosting prospects for right-wing, anti-immigration parties, update on the Ukraine war, lessons China is drawing from the latest Middle East crisis, and a roundup of Indo-Pacific headlines.

It’s AUSA convention time, and we hear from an Army aviation legend. Former Major General Jeff Schloesser goes deep on military implications of world events, the changing nature of command and operational concepts, and the future of rotorcraft. Plus we break news of a new U.S. fighter in our airpower headlines. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Steve Hedger, the CEO of American Rheinmetall — the US arm of German defense and aerospace contractor Rheinmetall — discusses the company’s growth in the wake of the Ukraine war, lessons from the conflict that are shaping its portfolio, delivering on orders, and growth in the US market after being downselected as a finalist in the US Army’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle contest; and Alex Creswell, the CEO of Thales UK — one of Britain’s leading defense and aerospace firms — discusses lessons from conflicts in Israel and Ukraine, the importance of industrial base resilience, bolstering translation cooperation and the need for a new generation of truly modular weapons with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securties, Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, and JJ Gertler of the Teal Group as well as co-host of The Airpower Podcast discuss lessons from Hamas’ terror attack on Israel and the Ukraine war, why nations consistently forget hard earned lessons, how the global defense industrial environment is changing, the budget outlook and how growing debt and rising interest rates may impact future spending and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian from the sidelines of The Aerospace Event in Washington, DC.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, veteran Israeli journalist and analyst Barbara Rome discusses the unprecedented Hamas terror attack on Israel that left more than 700 dead, thousands wounded and more than 100 taken hostage, the intelligence failure and slow response by the Israel Defense Force, how the conflict needs to be resolved, and the assistance Israel needs from Washington and its allies; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on the Ukraine war as well as the lessons Russians are drawing from Hamas attack on Israel; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the defense budget outlook under a new House speaker, implications of a world descending into entropy, and the importance of land forces as the Association of the United States Army’s annual convention convenes with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as strong US jobs growth raises prospect of more Federal Reserve interest rate hikes, air travel outlook, change in management at Spirit AeroSystems as Boeing eyes raising 737 production rate to 57 jetliners a month, Rheinmetall’s articulacy ammunition contract for Germany and Ukraine moves ahead, Poland selects Thales combat system for the country’s frigates, Ukraine’s Antonov Europe’s ADS aerospace and defense trade group, look at Saab’s new A26 submarine, and what to expect from the Association of the United States Army’s annual conference and tradeshow next week.

Joining us today to review the week in Washington and the world are Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend with the Center for a New American Security, and Dr. Kathleen McInnis of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the race to replace Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., as House speaker and the look ahead to how the choice will shape the budget outlook and Ukraine spending, whether chaotic GOP and former President Trump’s mounting legal woes and latest revelation he disclosed nuclear submarine information will dim Republicans’ electoral prospects, global impact of congressional perfidy regarding assistance to Kyiv and prospect of Trump’s return to office, Ukraine and EU membership, President Biden’s upcoming meeting with Xi Jingping as Beijing escalates tensions with Taiwan and Philippines, Japan wants to accelerate $1.4 billion Tomahawk acquisition, US shoots down Turkish drone over Syria, and whether the award of the Nobel Peace Prize to Narges Mohammadi will improve the lives of oppressed Iranian women.

Andrew Van Timmeren of Anduril tells us how the Fury high-performance adversary air UAV came to be and where the program is going. CSIS’s Dr. Tom Karako adds the latest on air and missile defense. Plus airpower headlines. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Michael Herson, the president of American Defense International, discusses why California Republican Rep. Kevin McCarthy was ousted from the House speakership, the implications of the move, candidates as the next speaker, outlook for Ukraine aid and impact on 2023 and 2024 elections with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and a Cyber Solarium 2.0 executive director, discusses the five steps Washington urgently needs to take to preserve deterrence and prevent losing a war against China, the three things that must happen by the end of the year, the amount of annual funding necessary to field vitally needed hypersonic defense and long-range strike capabilities, working more closely with allies and partners, and why surging weapons production for Ukraine will be vital for the Indo-Pacific as well with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Micahel Herson of American Defense International discusses how lawmakers averted a government shutdown with a last-minute deal and what’s next for House Speaker Kevin McCarthy; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine, Vladimir Putin’s decision to tap Andrei Troshev as Wagner Group’s new leader and role in Ukraine, Russia’s latest test of its Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile, and the ethnic cleansing of Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses defense spending, a look at the week ahead and what to expect from the upcoming AUSA conference and tradeshow with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets including prospect of more Federal Reserve hikes in borrowing rates to achieve 2 percent inflation target, Europe’s lowest inflation rate in two years, investors continuing concern with RTX’s geared turbofan issues and impact on Airbus, Airbus announcement that Christian Scherer will head the giant’s commercial aircraft arm, Air France’s A350 and Air Canada’s 787 orders, Germany’s surging defense spending, Czech Republic’s makes official its purchase of 24 F-35 Lightning II fighters, impact of Sen. Bob Menendez stepping down from his chairmanship of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Saab prepares to roll out new A26 submarine, and a look ahead at the Up Summit.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the looming risk of what could prove a prolonged government shutdown and how GOP efforts to impeach President Biden as well as Ukraine aide will impact Washington’s budget politics over the coming months, whether former President Trump’s new legal woes in New York will impede his political prospects, European support for Ukraine even as Russian disinformation efforts shape the outcome of elections in Slovakia, impact of M1 tanks on the battlefield as the administration continues to deliberate ATACMS deliveries, North Korea returns US Army soldier Travis King to United States via China, mounting tensions between Beijing and Manila as Philippines dismantles Chinese sea barrier to impede Filipino access to its internationally recognized territorial waters, US sponsored Pacific Island meeting, Israeli-Saudi tanks, the crisis in Nagorno Karabakh and what it means for Armenia’s longevity as an independent state, and Trump’s threatening commends about outgoing Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Mark Milley.

With major aircraft programs taking decades to put hardware on the ramp, the military is turning to rapid acquisition to make their new platforms more relevant. Until recently, Randy Walden ran the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, and he joins us to explain the secret sauce that lets the B-21 and other programs speed up time. Plus air power headlines. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On this week’s Technology Report, David “Kumo” Kumashiro and Simon “Rocky” Rochelle of the innovative British quantum encryption company Arqit discuss the importance of working to apply quantum encryption of data today to safeguard critical information from future threats as both friends and foes race to field game-changing quantum computers able to crack any message not protected by quantum technologies with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, we bring you an interview from our CavasShips Podcast with newly-installed commander of Naval Air Forces Atlantic, Rear Admiral Doug Verissimo, at the recent Naval Air Station Oceana air show. Chris Cavas and the Admiral talked about some of his greatest challenges, including maintenance of the US Navy’s air fleet, along with the recruitment and retention of sailors and aviators. Stay tuned for a great discussion from the flight line right after Cavas and co-host Chris Servello bring you a quick recap of naval news.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine — and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest defense and aerospace headlines and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets including realization that interest rates may remain high, lingering impact of RTX’s geared turbofan announcement on partner MTU and engine user Airbus as well as capacity issues if large numbers of jets are grounded for maintenace, whether the airline industry has too much capacity, whether the “great retirement” of experienced talent during the pandemic is causing program performance problems across the industry and if that experienced talent now at innovative smaller firms can help create a new generation of entrants into the market, NetJet’s agreement to order up to 1,500 jets from Textron, implications of parked commercial passenger and cargo aircraft, King Charles III’s successful state visit to France and whether it will help improve Anglo-French relations including on defense programs, update on Ukraine war as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy seeks more arms and Kyiv strikes the headquarters of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, and how ATACMS could change the course of the war if the White House eventually approves the weapon for export.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss what’s next now that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s budget deal failed twice this week, outlook for government shutdown and NDAA, how China is spinning Washington’s dysfunction, Senate circumvents Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s blanket hold on military promotions to confirm top Pentagon military leaders, talks between National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese Foreign Minister Want Yi in Malta, latest indictment against Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Menendez, Poland’s decision to halt military aid to Ukraine unless Kyiv suspends grain exports, support for Ukraine in Washington and beyond, US decision to give Iran $6 billion to free five American hostages, Bibi Netanyahu’s meeting with President Biden and invitation to visit White House, implications of surrender of Armenian enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, and ramifications of Canada’s disclosure that India killed a Canadian Sikh activist on Canadian soil and New Delhi’s reaction.

It’s been a busy and somewhat bizarre week in military aviation, and Richard Aboulafia, the world’s leading aviation market analyst, joins us to help break it down. Whether it’s missing F-35s, Polish fighter acquisition, or new aircraft types on the ramp, he brings the insights. And it’s all powered by GE Aerospace!

On this week’s Technology Report, Dr. Maciej Klemm, the CEO and founder of APS — a Polish company that makes some of the most successful anti-drone systems operating in Ukraine — discusses magnitude of the drone war, the nature of the threat, blending kinetic and non kinetic technologies, and the need to innovate quickly as threats change; and Rob Basset Cross, the founder and CEO of British AI software firm Adarga, discusses the need to apply AI to help make sense of ever increasing amounts of data to help decision makers, the role of public-private partnerships needed to deliver capability quickly, and role of training and culture change to ensure leaders better understand AI and its role with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Amb. Jim Cunningham, one of the nation’s most experienced diplomats having served in Europe, the Middle East and Asia as America’s ambassador to Afghanistan, Israel, the United Nations in an acting capacity, consul general to Hong Kong and Macau and chief of staff for legendary NATO Secretary General Manfred Woerner discusses diplomacy in a new great power era, preserving the rules based order, how identify the right red lines that can be enforced, countering China, Russia, Iran and North Korea as they grow closer, the keys to successfully negotiating with foes and friends, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Vladimir Putin’s meeting with Kim Jong Un, Ukraine’s attack on Russia’s Sevastopol naval base that damaged a drydock as well as destroyed a conventionally powered attack submarine and amphibious ship, Lt. Gen. Sergey Surovikin surfaces in Algeria, Ramzan Kadyrov’s health, and an update on tension in the Caucasus; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses what’s next now that the House has submitted its draft spending measure to the Senate, long-term defense spending outlook as borrowing rates and inflation rise along with debt worries; takeaways from last week’s major events including the AFA show, the Global Aerospace Summit, AUVSI and CNAS, as well as a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, implications of parked commercial passenger and cargo aircraft, Vietnam Airlines order for 50 Boeing 737 Max jetliners, RTX’s $3 billion charge on Geared Turbofan engine problems that will ground 350 jetliners a year through 2026 to repair, rationale for downgrading RTX stock, GE’s decision to sell down AerCap stake, and key takeaways from DSEI tradeshow and Air Force Association’s Air Space Cyber conference.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss a defense appropriations bill that’s in trouble, growing likelihood of government shutdown and continuing resolution, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy open impeachment inquiry into President Biden, Ukraine makes battlefield progress and destroys Russian submarine and amphibious ship as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un meet, Biden’s G-20 meeting and deepening partnership with Vietnam as Vice President Harris engages with ASEAN nations, implications of earthquake in Morocco and flooding in Libya, and more.

There’s a hot war in Europe, and the man in charge of United States interests in that part of the world, General James “Scorch” Hecker, joins us with the latest from the forward edge. And it’s avgeek prom time in Washington; we review the Air and Space Forces Association’s Air/Space/Cyber convention with John Tirpak of Air and Space Forces Magazine. It’s the latest from around the world!

On this week’s Technology Report, Bryan Clark, the director of Center for Defense Concepts and Technology, discusses the takeaways from a new report he coauthored with his colleague Dan Patt — “Unalone and Unafraid: A Plan for Integrating Uncrewed and Other Emerging Technologies into US Military Forces,” the kind of unmanned platforms the US military needs for future conflict, better coordinating efforts among the military services, analysis of the DoD’s new Replicator effort to mass produce vast quantities of unmanned platforms, Anduril’s new Fury aircraft, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr Brendan Mulvaney, the director of the US Air Force’s China Aerospace Studies Institute at Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., and inaugural director of the Marine Corps Commandant’s Red Team, discusses the “problematic” capabilities China is developing and demonstrating, whether Beijing is growing more dangerous as its economy falters, if there’s a “window” of danger, Beijing’s view of its adversaries and the importance of understanding the “century of humiliation,” how to counter China, building alliances and partnerships, the reality that China has enough capability to weather technological sanctions and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s battlefield gains, how Russia is adapting its capabilities including jamming to counter Western weapons in Ukrainian hands, how changes in leadership pin both sides will impact the war, Russia’s big drone jamboree, and the implications of an Azerbaijani attack on Armenia; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses factors that are negatively impacting defense stock values including Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s holds on military promotions and assignments, the Poland’s military modernization, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, analysis of Lockheed Martin’s announcement that TR-3 variant of F-35 Lightning II fighter won’t be ready for production until next year, Michael Whitaker’s priorities if confirmed as next FAA administrator, Ron Epstein’s vision for Boeing’s next jetliner, Poland’s $2 billion order for Kongsberg missiles, implications of Elon Musk’s decision to foil a Ukrainian attack on Russia’s Black Sea Fleet to avoid being involved in escalation of war as Pentagon looks to increase its reliance on commercial suppliers, DoD’s Replicator effort to mass produce unmanned systems and Anduril acquisition of Blue Force and the company’s Fury uncrewed fighter, and what to expect from this year’s AFA conference and DSEI tradeshow.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss what’s on the agenda as lawmakers return to Washington from continuing resolution to NDAA, growing ire at Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s holds on general officer promotions and reassignments, President Biden’s weak poll numbers, Ukraine’s increasing momentum as Moscow steps up attacks and works to secure a anti-Ukrainian government in Slovakia, Facebook and Microsoft’s dismantling of Chinese disinformation campaigns aimed at the American public, expectations from the G20 meeting in New Delhi, whether sanctions can impede Beijing’s abilities to develop ever more sophisticated microelectronics, North Korea’s claim it’s fielding an at-sea nuclear deterrent, collapse of Israel’s secret talks with Libya, and Iran’s exercises on former UAE island.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Rasmus Hindren in an exit interview as he departed as head of international relations at the European Union’s Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats in Helsinki — now on the EU and NATO policy team at the Finnish Ministry of Defense — discusses the center’s efforts to identify long-term threats facing the 27-nation union, objectively assessing and prioritizing threats facing the union, a look at the threats facing the union, lessons from the Ukraine war, a long-term approach to Russia, view of China and its actions in the Indo-Pacific and their impacts on Europe, nurturing a stronger strategic culture among member nations, improving cybersecurity, countering disinformation, and greater allied industrial cooperation with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On September 5th, Air Force secretary Frank Kendall sent a letter to the entire service outlining a new initiative to rebuild and re-organize the Air Force. Just before he released that letter, he sat down with The Air Power Podcast to discuss the motives behind and goals for that reorganization, along with other major Air Force issues. In particular, he was very blunt and impassioned about Senator Tommy Tuberville’s continuing hold on the military promotion and reassignment process.   Because he was making timely news, we are getting this program into your hands a day early.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest defense and aerospace headlines and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo’s trip to Beijing and trade outlook as China’s demonstrates that US chip sanctions aren’t stopping it from developing semiconductors without American content, balancing Washington’s Buy American rhetoric with the Pentagon’s drive for allies and partners worldwide to more quickly produce weapons, the US Navy’s announcement that Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman are the three competitors for it’s FA-XX future combat aircraft program, Ukraine makes progress on its counteroffensive, Lockheed Martin to establish F-16 training in Romania, and discovery of counterfeit CFM engine parts.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, decline in passenger and cargo traffic, Boeing prepares to renew deliveries to China as Beijing-Washington tensions rise, explanation for rise in near misses in the US air travel system, new 737 production issue at Spirit AeroSystems, Indonesia and Poland confirm their respective F-15 EX fighter and AH-64 attack helicopter orders, Brasil orders more Gripen E jets as the US Marine Corps raises its CH-53K buy, Lockheed Martin secures Lot 19 F-35 contract, and Ukraine war update.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim join host Vago Muradian to discuss the outlook for a government shutdown and Ukraine aid, national security takeaways from the first Republican presidential debate, what’s next for the Ukraine war as Vladimir Putin reasserts his power in the wake of the assassination of Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his top lieutenants, the corrosive nature of leaks from Washington criticizing Ukraine’s war strategy and the message it sends allies and partners worldwide, critical role of the Philippines under the leadership of Bongbong Marcos, China’s erosion of regional influence as nations stand up to Beijing with encouragement from America and its regional allies, the BRICS summit, and Israel’s settlers criticize the Netanyahu government as too liberal.

Spirit Aerosystems is well known for its commercial work, but they’re making a big move into the defense business, and the head of that operation tells us about it. And the Air Force’s futurist, retired Lieutenant General Clint “Q” Hinote, joins us to preview the Air Force Association Air Space Cyber conference coming up in a couple of weeks. Plus this week’s headlines in air power!

On this week’s Technology Report, Dr. Paul McGinn, professor of chemical and molecular engineering at the Univeristy of Notre Dame, discusses claims that South Korea’s LK-99 material is superconducting at room temperature and ambient pressure, how the state of material science is advancing, and the impact that the engineering and scientific impact of recent CHIPS, infrastructure and climate measures; and Dr. Arun Seraphin, the executive director of the National Defense Industrial Association’s Emerging Technologies Institute, discusses his priorities and ETI’s inaugural conference in Washington Aug. 28-30 with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Brian Schimpf, co-founder and CEO of Anduril Industries, discusses lessons from the Ukraine war that are shaping his company’s strategy, how the Pentagon is changing the way it acquires capabilities, how the company is managing its supply chains to ensure responsiveness on demand and at scale, partnering with major contractors, DoD’s approach to the artificial intelligence that’s critical to increasingly autonomous systems, and a look ahead at the company’s growth prospects with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, former DoD comptroller Bob Hale, the chairman of the commission to reform the Pentagon’s Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution system, discusses panel’s interim report and its proposed recommendations; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses that latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the impact of China and Russia’s weakening economies, the US Air Force’s landmark blended wing body aircraft demonstrator program, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, global impact of China’s economic woes on air travel, reports that IndiGo is preparing to order 25 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, BAE Systems’ proposed $5.6 billion acquisition of Ball Aerospace, US Air Force’s $235 million contract to team led by JetZero that includes Northrop Grumman and RTX to develop and build a potentially game-changing blended wing body aircraft, potential defense budget implications as nations struggle with mounting climate disasters as security challenges loom, Washington clears Denmark and the The Netherlands to train Ukrainian pilots on the F-16 and transfer jets to Kyiv.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, our producer and co-host of the Cavas Ships podcast Chris Servello, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss a possible deal between Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on a continuing resolution to avert a government shutdown, prospects for a National Defense Authorization Act, the interim recommendations of the commission to reform the Pentagon’s Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution process, Ukraine’s progress on the battlefield and whether Washington will step up aid now that White House has cleared Denmark and others to begin training Ukrainians on F-16 fighters, how the alliance should respond to Russian provocations on the Black Sea, Russia’s mounting economic woes, President Biden’s historic meeting with his Japanese and South Korean counterparts at Camp David, China’s own economic troubles, and latest on Israel and Iran.

The first rule of Fighter Club… is that we talk about Fighter Club. With countries around the world working on their own fighter aircraft, Richard Aboulafia, the world’s preeminent aviation analyst, tells us how the U.S. created a market for them – and how the U.S. might profit off them. And we have this week’s headlines in air power.

On today’s program, Mohamed Siad Doualeh, Djibouti’s ambassador to the United States as well as representative to the United Nations, discusses the importance of engaging with African nations to foster stability and security, the reluctance for nations to choose sides in an era of increasingly heated great-power competition, addressing turmoil in Somalia, Ethiopia and Yemen, the role of the Economic Community of West African States in confronting the junta that deposed Niger’s legitimately elected President Mohamed Bazoum, and Djibouti’s openness to hosting military forces from France, America, Britain as well as China with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Varun Marya, the aerospace and defense lead for the Americas at the McKinsey consultancy, discusses the global business environment, business strategy, the need to pick winners and losers, accelerating DoD adoption of commercial technologies for military applications, how targeted Pentagon spending can attract commercial capital to solve defense problems, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine — and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest defense and aerospace headlines and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as inflation ticks up and investors debate when the Federal Reserve will start cutting short-term borrowing rates intended to fight inflation, whether current inflation is high relative to historical norms, look at CAE, Garmin, RocketLab, Rheinmetall, Spire, Teledyne, TransDigm earnings, Romania orders F-35 Lighting II fighters from Lockheed Martin as Indonesia orders 18 additional Rafale’s from Dassault Aviation, F-16 order book grows as US prepares to clear jets for Turkey as the Fighting Falcon prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, update on Ukraine’s counteroffensive and Russia’s efforts to intimidate shipping in the Black Sea.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss looming government shutdown and Ukraine supplemental, moves to impeach President Biden and continuing transformation of GOP, Ukraine’s offensive and what Kyiv needs from allies and partners including enforcing sanctions on families of sanctioned Russians, China intimidates Philippine coast guard ships, Beijing’s increasing presence around Taiwan and how Chinese leaders will respond to upcoming trip by island nation’s vice president to US and Paraguay, making sense of Biden administration’s new limits on US investment in China, Iran hostages released and Israel’s budget cuts for Arab programs.

Airpower doesn’t work if the pylons and racks are empty. Tyler Hacker of CSBA joins us to discuss his new report on future munitions and production challenges. And one Air Guard unit’s innovative outreach to get young people interested in things with wings. Of course, the hot headlines in airpower live here. It’s a blast!

On this week’s Technology Report, Mark Montgomery of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies discusses China’s persistent penetration of Japan’s defense networks in 2020 and again in 2021, US and Japanese efforts to help Tokyo eject Beijing from those networks, and how the disclosure of the intrusion by The Washington Post could impact US-Japan relations; and Tobias Whitney, the vice president of strategy and policy at Fortress Information Security, discusses the company’s partnership with the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International to generate certification standards for commercial and military uncrewed systems and how these standards could be applied to other fields with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

In the fifth of a six-part series on command and control, sponsored Ultra Intelligence & Communications, Bryan Clark, the director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute think tank, and Greg Grant, a senior adviser with the Special Competitive Studies Project — the nonprofit that emerged from the wake of the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence — discuss the status of the Pentagon’s top priority Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control effort, progress to date, what it will take to accelerate progress, role of technology and culture change, as well as lessons from history and the Ukraine war with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s recent strikes against Russian infrastructure, naval and commercial ships in Crimea, an update on Kyiv’s counteroffensive to claw back territory from Russia, the scale of Moscow’s incessant cruise missile and drone strikes against Ukrainian targets, the support Russia is getting from China, North Korea and Iran, and the latest unmanned systems developments; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses historical data about government shutdowns and continuing resolutions, buying power that’s lost when appropriations and interrupted, lessons form Central Europe’s ammunition shortfalls during the early 20th century, the recent RAND Corporation report — “Inflection Point: How to Reverse the Erosion of U.S. and Allied Military Power and Influence” — and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as the Fitch downgrades US credit from AAA to AA+ over concerns that Washington has no plan to deal with burgeoning debt and new job creation was weaker than expected, look at second 2023 quarter earnings as Air Lease, AerCap, BAE Systems, Bombardier, Chemring, Garmin, HII, Howmet, Leidos, Parsons, Rolls-Royce, Spirit AeroSystems, and Triumph report, munitions production as Russia continues to deplete Ukrainian and Western stocks, and US Air Force awards Archer Aviation a contract for six of the company’s Midnight air taxis to test the utility of the concept in military operations.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss implications of the Biden administration’s decision to keep US Space Command in Denver instead of moving it to Alabama as promised by former President Trump as the Alabama delegation that includes the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee Rep., Mike Rogers vows retribution, Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s continuing hold on military promotions, update on Russia’s war on Ukraine as Kyiv gains ground and Russia counterstrikes, what the alliance has to do to step up weapons production as worries most that Ukraine’s allies are already running short, two US sailors accused of spying for China as Chinese malware detected in US military and commercial networks, Beijing sacks top Chinese generals, DoD continues to engage in Indo-Pacific including to defuse tensions with China, and US to put troops on ships to guard against Iranian hijacking, and Israel update.

The U.S. Air Force has a new Chief of Staff on the way. We asked a panel of airpower thinkers to fill in the new Chief’s agenda, and the results are fascinating. And there’s a new fighter in European skies, but with a familiar shape. The man at its controls tells us all about this historic project. And air power headlines? We’ve got them!

On this week’s Technology Report, John CoFrancesco, the founder of Applied AI Company, discusses how to counter Chinese malware in US military and national infrastructure, how much a national effort would cost, the Biden administration’s National Cyber Workforce and Education Strategy, the White House’s agreement with AI firms, the benefits of an AI enable society, how to think about AI weaponry, and South Korea’s potentially game changing LK-99 material that promises room temperature and ambient pressure semiconductors with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, James Cross and Sam Gray of the Silicon Valley Defense Group discuss the non-profit’s inaugural NATSEC100 report on the top venture-funded companies developing innovative technologies and systems for national security applications, the role of government in picking winners and losers, the Pentagon’s obligation to more robustly fund companies it has encouraged to develop potentially breakthrough capabilities, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Mark Montgomery of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies discusses Chinese malware implanted across US military and national infrastructure that could hamper an American response to a crisis precipitated by China in the Indo-Pacific, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s battlefield gains and Russia’s latest nuclear saber rattling, and Byron Callan of Capital Alpha Partners discusses key takeaways from last week’s earnings reports, the Jamestown Foundation’s tactical nuclear conversation with former US Army Europe Commander Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, USA Ret., and the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as recession fears abate, a look at second 2023 quarter earnings as Airbus, Boeing, GD, L3Harris, Leonardo, Northrop Grumman, Safran, RTX and others report, Northrop Grumman’s revelation it won’t pursue the US Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance contract as a prime contractor, RTX discloses 1,200 Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan engines need accelerated inspections, and analysis of billions of dollars in Safran and Thales acquisitions.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the $886 billion overwhelmingly bipartisan Senate version of National Defense Authorization Act and the elements that differ from the highly partisan House version of the authorization measure, update on appropriations and as lawmakers leave Washington for summer recess, Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s hold on military promotions, update on Ukraine’s offensive and the help Kyiv needs to succeed, whether NATO is prepared for accidental escalation as Russia targets Ukrainian grain facilities across the Danube from Hungary, Russia hosts African leaders as Vladimir Putin pledges free grain as he strikes Ukrainian grain stores, Japan’s new defense strategy, Xi Jinping without explanation replaces his protege Qin Gang with Wang Yi as foreign minister, America blocks Hong Kong chief executive John Lee from key meeting of Indo-Pacific leaders in San Francisco, and what’s next after Bibi Netanyahu and his allies drive home controversial judicial reform legislation that is dividing Israeli society and alienating Washington.

The U.S. Air Force just passed a milestone with its first use of a commercial contract tanker. We discuss what it means and hear from the company that made it happen. And CSIS guru Tom Karako on the latest in air and missile defense. Plus your headlines in airpower!

On this week’s Technology Report, Bryan Clark, the director of Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute, discusses the new paper he co-authored with his colleague Dan Patt — “Campaigning to Dissuade: Applying Emerging Technologies to Engage and Succeed in the Information Age Security Competition” — with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Bruce Klingner of the Heritage Foundation discusses North Korea under Kim Jong-Un’s leadership as well as new capabilities being developed to strike the United States, how to both deter and engage Pyongyang, opportunities in the defection of US Army Pvt. Travis King, whether it’s time for a new strategy that regards China-Russia-North Korea-Iran as a concerted threat or continue a siloed strategic approach, whether South Korea will support Washington and its allies in the event of a crisis with China, and the prospects Seoul and Tokyo will go nuclear in the wake of Pyongyang’s growing capabilities with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Vladimir Putin’s drive to show he’s in control by arresting right-wing commentary Igor Girkin, update on Wagner Group’s training of Belarusian troops, Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s claim that Ukraine has regained 50 percent of its territory, how Ukraine can get its grain to international markets through its own territorial waters and those of its neighbors, and the latest in unmanned warfare; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the Senate’s approach to the National Defense Authorization Act, increasing US weapons production to address Ukrainian and global demand, a look at Lockheed Martin earnings and what to expect from other defense and aerospace firms about to report second quarter results, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, United Airline’s deal with pilots and implication for air travel especially at the front of the cabin as prices soar, analysis of second quarter 2023 earnings at Babcock, Dassault, Lockheed Martin, Saab and Thales, Dassault’s low production rate, German Chancellor Olaf Scholtz’s comments on Saudi Arabia and implications for future defense programs including on combat aircraft, and Western production of weapons including air and missile defenses as Russia deliberately saturates Ukraine’s defenses to deplete Kyiv’s American and European stocks.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the Senate’s approach to the National Defense Authorization Act, update on appropriations, congressional antics including Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s holds and Rep. Pramila Jayapal’s Israel comments, Russia’s assault on Ukrainian grain and how Washington and the world should respond, Wagner Group reconstitutes in Belarus, Pentagon Asia-Pacific chief Dr. Ely Ratner’s testimony on China and Taiwan and how his comments could shape Republican opposition to Ukraine aid, roundup of Indo-Pacific news including Xi Jinping’s decision to rebuff John Kerry’s climate cooperation proposal, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang’s disappearance, and Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s drive to gut the independence of the country’s judiciary.

The F-35 Lightning II is the biggest program in military history, and it deserves the longest interview in our history. In this special expanded edition, the man at the top of the program through some of its toughest times, Tom Burbage, joins us to talk about the fighter’s evolution.

On this week’s Technology Report, Paul Ernst, the cyber security lead at Rebellion Defense, discusses China’s recent hacking of the State Department’s emails and how the nation should improve its cyber defenses; and Quentin Donnellan, the president of defense and space at Hypergiant, discusses on how the innovative company is helping the US Air Force realize its Combined Joint All Domain Command and Control future with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Jerry McGinn, the executive director of the Baroni Center for Government Contracting in the School of Business at George Mason University, discusses the new report he co-authored with Mike Roche — A “Build Allied” Approach to Increase Industrial Base Capacity — lessons from the Ukraine war, balancing sovereign national needs against the need for free trade, how to bring together allies and partners worldwide to rapidly field capability and increase capacity, incentives to encourage more cooperation, investing in national capabilities, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s offensive including strikes on the Kerch Bridge as well as the Russian fleet in Sevastopol, takeaways from NATO’s Vilnius Summit, Vladimir Putin’s move to demote, fire or detain more than 30 generals, Turkey’s shift toward the alliance, and an update on UAV operations during the war; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the House version of the National Defense Authorization Act, how the Senate will respond to the legislation that includes controversial provisions, the impact of devastating climate events like record flooding in Vermont and New York as well as a warming ocean that could generate far more fierce Atlantic hurricanes and what impact these disasters will have on government spending, lTreasury outlays and what to expect when leading contractors like Lockheed Martin report earnings, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the weeks top US and international security headlines.

Airpower is everywhere in this week’s Air Power podcast, powered by GE Aerospace. Vago reports from the Air Chiefs’ Conference and Royal International Air Tattoo in England, including a discussion with former Air Marshal Greg Bagwell about the major issues. And he also speaks with brigadier general Marc LaBouil of the French air and space forces, who is leading a remarkable French deployment to Asia. Of course, there are the weeks headlines in airpower. And we apologize for some audio variability; we were both on the road this week, so it may not sound quite as smooth as usual – but the information is there and it’s good!

On today’s Technology Report, Kynan Carver of government services firm Maximus discusses how to get to a zero trust world, cloud security and improving government and military security at the point of logging in; and Dale Davis of Ultratech Capital Partners discusses the Pentagon’s progress on better harnessing commercial technology for military gain and steps to improve its game, dialogue with DoD on the problems that need solving, and the outlook for capital availability as investors tightened their standards after years of lax practices with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Andrew Krepinevich, one of America’s foremost strategists who is now affiliated with the Center for a New American Security and the Hudson Institute, discusses his new book — The Origins of Victory: How Disruptive Military Innovation Determines the Fates of Great Powers — that dissects lessons from four critical inflection points in the development of breakthrough military capabilities shaped by singular leaders who harnessed technological change to craft forces able to prevail over adversaries to shape the future of their nations, China’s long head start on building forces able to systemically undermine US military advantages, what the United States has to do to regain the upper hand in the competition, vital role of leadership and tenure in driving change, and Ukraine war lessons with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the three-hour meeting Vladimir Putin held with Wagner CEO Yevgeny Prigozhin and his commanders as well as top officials five days after the aborted mutiny spearheaded by the mercenary leader, status report on the Ukraine War and US decision to supply Kyiv with the cluster munitions it sought, and update on unmanned systems on the battlefield; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the defense industrial implications of NATO’s Vilnius Summit, the need for an alliance munitions strategy to leverage broad industrial capabilities to accelerate production, putting the clusters munitions debate in the right context given Ukraine called for the weapons as Russia has used them indiscriminately against civilians, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets

Welcome to the CavasShips Podcast with Christopher P. Cavas and Chris Servello…a weekly podcast looking at naval and maritime events and issues of the day – in the US, across the seas and around the world. This week…we take an early look at one of the largest shows  – The United Kingdom Defense and Securities Export exhibition or DSEI, held every two years in London. Joining us to preview the show and discuss international maritime issues that will shape the discussion is retired Royal Navy Rear Admiral Jon Pentreath, DSEI’s Senior Naval and Land Advisor. Please send us feedback by DM’ing @CavasShips or @CSSProvision or you can email [email protected] or [email protected].

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the National Defense Authorization Act and its nearly 1,500 amendments that will hit the floor next week and the many contentious proposals that will provide problematic, outlook for appropriations to avoid a government shutdown, Vladimir Putin’s hold on power in the wake of the aborted mutiny by Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, takeaways from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization virtual meeting, NATO’s Vilnius Summit next week and Sweden’s proposed membership as well as how the alliance will finesse Ukraine’s future role, Washington’s decision to send cluster weapons Ukraine as Kyiv calls for more weapons, India’s decision to back the International Court of Arbitration’s decision in favor of Manila and against China’s sweeping territorial claims to the South China Sea, Indo-Pacific headlines, Israel’s Jenin operation, the US Navy’s role in preventing Iran from seizing more ships in the Gulf, and Russia’s interference with US Reaper aircraft over Syria.

This week, it’s an ALL Power Podcast (powered by GE Aerospace), as we try a little jointness. The team (Chris Cavas, Chris Servello, Laura Winter, Vago and J.J.) comes together to review 2023 in space, aloft, and on the sea. Because it’s not too late to choose a new course!

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses whether Vladimir Putin has been weakened by the recent mutiny, the method to his Dagestan visit, more money for the Army and National Guard, where’s Yevgeny Prigozhin and what’s next for his Wagner Group and other “professional military companies,” and an update on the Ukraine War; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses China’s decision to cut gallium and germanium rare earth exports to the United States in response to US moves to curtail Chinese access to semiconductor making equipment and technology, impact of the move, whether the upcoming mission to Beijing by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellin will improve Sino-American relations, the complexities of an increasingly nuclear-armed world, RUSI’s Ukraine War lessons and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets in the wake of Wagner Group CEO Yevgeny Prigozhin aborted mutiny, how Russia changes as a threat after the chaotic weekend that saw mercenary forces advance to within 125 miles of Moscow, prospect of increased French defense spending and Berlin’s plan to invest up to 10 billion euros on ammunition and combat vehicles, lessons from the widespread flight cancellations across the United States as Americans head on vacation before Independence Day, the impact of the new agreement between Spirit AeroSystems management and its union that will yield a 36 percent pay raise, the US Army’s decision to select GD Land Systems and Rheinmetall for the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle program to replace the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, Leonardo partners with Hanwha on Advanced Electronically Scanned Array radar technology, China’s flight test of a J20 fighter equipped with Chinese-made WS15 engines and what the development means for Comac’s C919 airliner, and the FAA’s awarding of a special airworthiness certificate to Joby Aviation to allow the company to deliver its first production electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft to the US Air Force next year under the Agility contract valued at up to $131 million.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, our producer and co-host of the Cavas Ships podcast Chris Servello, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the implications of the aborted mutiny by Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and whether the mercenary force leader had help from senior Russian security officials, how the episode will change how Vladimir Putin rules and conducts the war in Ukraine, Beijing’s view of the Russian leader and implications for its own autocracy, divisions in the NATO heading into the Vilnius Summit over Ukraine’s membership in the alliance and who will serve as secretary general, roundup of Indo-Pacific headlines, Israeli police’s investigation of former Prime Minister Ehud Barak and former IDF deputy chief of staff Yair Golan on incitement changes, and impact of Supreme Court’s decision to reverse affirmative action for college admissions on future military officer recruiting.

On this week’s Air Power Podcast (powered by GE Aerospace), Aviation Week defense editor Stephen Trimble talks F-35, C-130, NGAD, and more. Safran Electronics CEO Franck Saudo discusses how they are overcoming GPS denial technology. And we have this week’s headlines in airpower. What more, really, could you ask?

On this week’s Technology Report, this week’s Mark Montgomery of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the executive director of the Cyber Solarium 2.0 project, discusses the science, technology, cyber and AI implications of House and Senate authorization and House appropriation markups of the Biden administration’s budget request, progress on cyber, the need to fund generational science, technology, chips and infrastructure legislation to improve US long-term competitiveness, crafting smarter immigration laws to allow talented foreign graduates with US science and technology degrees to remain in the United States, the kind of science and technology cooperation that is possible with China even as tensions simmer between Beijing and Washington, whether Russia will lash out at America and its allies in the wake of Vladimir Putin’s setbacks on the battlefield and the aborted mutiny by Wagner CEO Yevgeny Prigozhin, and tech takeaways from Taiwan with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, Dr. Brian Taylor, a professor at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs as well as the director of Moynihan Institute of Global Affairs — and author of, “The Code of Putinism” — discusses whether the brief and aborted mutiny by Wagner CEO Yevgeny Prigozhin will undermine Russian President Vladimir Putin’s 23-year grip on power, whether Prigozhin’s scathing criticism and Putin’s clemency of the Wagner boss and his fighters will come back to haunt Putin by potentially empowering other senior figures to mount a future challenge, elites’ faith in the longtime leader, how the episode will shape Putin’s approach to the Ukraine war and whether he will be more inclined to using nuclear weapons, and how the Russian public and Chinese leaders will view Putin after the mutiny with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the questions in the wake of Wagner Group mercenary and convict force boss Yevgeny Prigozhin’s aborted drive toward Moscow, the outlook for Vladimir Putin’s longevity given security services failed to move to stop the mercenary force until Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko ended the crisis by offering Prigozhin as well as his troops and their equipment asylum in Belarus, and an update on Ukraine’s counteroffensive; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the defense investment implications of the Prigozhin affair, a look at House and Senate markups of the Biden administration’s defense budget request, takeaways from the Paris Air Show, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets, worldwide implications of a new four-year labor contract for Spirit AeroSystems’ workers that might yield a pay raise great than the 34 percent deal rejected by members, and analysis of key headlines from the 54th Paris Air Show including commercial aircraft orders, revelation that three demonstrators were built for the US Air Force’s top priority and top secret Next Generation Air Dominance combat aircraft program and that the service selected two teams to compete for the final order, and an update on the Franco-German-Spanish SCAF fighter program that now includes Belgium as an observer, and European air and missile defense efforts.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former DoD Europe chief Jim Townsend now with the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss House and Senate defense authorization and House defense appropriations markups, update on Ukraine supplemental that can become a vehicle for Pentagon budget plus up, allies pledge to rebuild Ukraine and whether more than $300 billion in Russian assets should be sent to Kyiv, update on Ukraine’s offensive, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States and the messages the visit sends to China and the world, Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s meeting with Xi Jinping to de-escalate tensions between the two nations, what Washington should do next now that Chinese shipments of gunpowder to Russia have been confirmed, how White House efforts to toward an “understanding” with Tehran could jeopardize the Abraham Accords, and the implications of recent of Israeli-Palestinian violence.

French Lightning– From the Paris Air Show, on this week’s Air Power Podcast (powered by GE Aerospace), Lockheed Martin Aeronautics boss Greg Ulmer talks F-35, NGAD, AETP, and more. And we have this week’s headlines in airpower, including breaking some NGAD news. C’est formidable!

On this latest episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Paul Scharre, the vice president and director of studies at the Center for a New American Security, discusses his new book — “Four Battleground: Power in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” — with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine — and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the latest defense and aerospace headlines and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as defense spending uncertainty returns to Washington, industry wide implications of Spirit AeroSystems’ new contract with unionized workers that if approved would raise pay by 34 percent, news reports that Ball Corp. is considering selling its aerospace unit for more than $5 billion, a progress report on the UK-Italy-Japan Global Combat Aircraft Program and some of the characteristics of the new fighter, key storylines from the 54th Paris Air Show including whether commercial aircraft orders will set a new record and the Franco-German-Spanish SCAF fighter program, plus a Ukraine war update.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former DoD Europe chief Jim Townsend now with the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to GOP floor antics as politically unpalatable new budget levels are set, House Armed Services and Defense Appropriations markups, Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s, R-Ala., continued hold on 250 military promotions, the global implications of former President Trump’s federal indictment for taking top secret documents including nuclear and war plans then misleading investigators, Ukraine’s counteroffensive and whether Washington and the West’s incremental approach to arming Kyiv is leaving the country without what it needs to mount a successful offensive, Russia’s claim it deployed nuclear weapons to Belarus, Germany’s new national security strategy, France scuppers NATO’s plan to open a liaison office in Tokyo to better coordinate alliance activities with Japan, Australia, New Zealand and South Korea, White House messaging on China’s spy base in Cuba, whether Turkey will allow Sweden to join the alliance, update on Israel’s chaotic political scene and White House outreach to Iran.

Big Bang Theory -- An innovative technology promises to drastically increase the range and/or shrink the size of air-launched (and other) munitions. We talk with the CEO of the company that’s making it happen. It’s time for our monthly update on air and missile defense with CSIS’s Tom Karako. And we’ll have the week’s headlines in airpower. It’s 50 pounds of show in a 5-pound bag!

On this week’s Technology Report, Sam Caucci, the founder and CEO of 1Huddle — an innovative workforce performance and training platform — discusses new contracts with the Air Force and Navy special operations commands, how training that is mentally challenging improves retention and learning outcomes, and the changing nature of work in the wake of the covid pandemic; and Justin Sherman, the founder of the DC research and advisory firm Global Cyber Strategies, discusses Russia’s hacking conference, the evolution of the Russian cyber ecosystem after global sanctions in response to Moscow’s war on Ukraine, Montana’s move to ban TikTok and the company’s countersuit, the right approach to regulating foreign-owned social media, and the flaws in the House bill that aims to limit China’s ability to develop undersea cables with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, Ted Colbert, the CEO of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, discusses his drive to improve his unit’s performance by hiring thousands, investing in his business and driving sweeping culture change to empower his workforce, the new global security environment in the wake of the Ukraine war, learning lessons from past program missteps, driving growth and winning major new contracts, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s counteroffensive to liberated its territory from Russian occupation, the Kremlin’s new directive that all Russian “volunteers” fighting in Ukraine register as contractors, and Russia’s non-government UAV ecosystem; AIA President and CEO Eric Fanning discusses the impact of the debt deal on defense spending, inflation impact, rebuilding defense industrial capacity in the wake of the Ukraine crisis, priorities for the Paris Air Show, and need for tax credit and export control reforms; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the US defense budget outlook and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets as investors weigh commercial real estate worries and prospects that Congress might not plus up Pentagon spending, the International Air Transport Association’s new traffic numbers and outlook on sustainable aviation, the concern that airlines are ordering too many airplanes in large blocks, Airbus delivery figures, defense sentiment as Ukraine launches its counteroffensive, and themes for the upcoming Paris Air Show that convenes the week after next at the historic airfield at Le Bourget outside the French capital.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss prospects for supplemental funding from Congress for Ukraine and cover Pentagon needs in the wake of the bipartisan debt deal, the Freedom Caucus revolt that’s blocked the House floor to protest Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the Republican presidential field and political implications of former President Trump’s impending federal indictment for mishandling top secret documents, what’s next in the Ukraine war as Kyiv launches its offensive and Russia blows up the Novo Kakhovka dam, growing US comfort with Ukraine using American weapons against Russia, France’s move to block a NATO liaison office in Tokyo, prospect that China will open a spy base in Cuba and what Washington can do about it, roundup of headlines in Asia and the Middle East, including the big Saudi win in negotiating a merger between the PGA and LIV to dominate golf as it already does Formula 1 and soccer.

On The Air Power Podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, Vago flies solo as JJ has the week off. In our discussion portion, we welcome Dr. Ted Harshberger of the Center for Strategic and International Studies to discuss lessons from the Ukraine war, what the destruction of the dam across the Dnipro River tells us about the targets nations are willing to destroy even if doing so hurts their own troops and citizens, the lessons from this European war that apply elsewhere including the Indo-Pacific, and the capabilities needed to deter and win future conflicts.

On this week’s Technology Report, Don Burnette, the co-founder and CEO of Kodiak Robotics, discusses the Silicon Valley company’s innovative autonomous technologies that can transform existing commercial and military vehicles into uncrewed ones; and John Cofrancesco, founder and CEO of the Applied AI Company, discusses the right approach to regulating artificial intelligence, why many large companies want legislation to ensure a level competitive playing field, and analyses the public elements of Pentagon’s new classified cyber strategy with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this latest episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Brian Taylor, a professor in the Political Science Department at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citzenship and Public Affairs who is an expert on Russia, Vladimir Putin and Russian elites and politics and the author of "The Code of Putinism,” discusses the impact of international sanctions on Russia now and over time, whether the sanctions will fracture Russian elites and separate them from Vladimir Putin, determining the actual level of public support for the Russian leader, Putin’s track record of doing what he’s said he’ll do, how to determine his actual red lines, whether it’s time for a strategy that deals with Russia, China, Iran and North Korea as a coalition rather than individual threats, and examples of good a nd bad strategy with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine — and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the deal to raise America’s borrowing limit and its implications on defense spending and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss Wall Street’s reaction to the debt deal that cut government spending and capped the Pentagon’s budget, whether there are work arounds that will boost resources for the Pentagon, economic outlook and how the Federal Reserve will respond to more positive jobs numbers, analysis of comments by Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun on how the trussed-wing transsonic technology demonstrator the company is developing for NASA could shape future single-aisle jetliners, Cathay Pacific’s interest in freighter version of the 777X, expectations that IndiGo will place 500-plane order with Airbus, and whether Ukraine will be able to get the 50 Patriot batteries it says it needs to help it achieve air superiority as it prepares to launch its offensive.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former DoD Europe chief Jim Townsend now with the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the outlook for defense spending in the wake of the bipartisan debt ceiling deal, pAlabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s hold on military promotions, how NATO has to respond to Balkan unrest, Turkey’s election and Sweden’s alliance membership, Ireland and defending undersea cables, Washington’s New START strictures, what to expect from this weekend’s Shangri-La Dialogue as Beijing rejects a meeting of US-Chinese defense leaders and buzzes a US spy plane, Lloyd Austin’s visit to Tokyo, closer US-Japanese-South Korean cooperation, North Korea’s failed satellite launch, and what “strategically witless” leaks from the administration tell the world.

This we week we are honored to welcome Gen. Mark "Grace" Kelly to the show. As the Commander, Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Kelly's job is to meet the challenges of peacetime air sovereignty and wartime defense--no small task for one staff. During this week's discussion we cover the challenging issues across the force and the globe, as well as and the week’s airpower headlines. If it’s in the air, it’s on the air!

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr Mark Esper, the 27th US defense secretary, and Deborah Lee James, the 23rd Air Force secretary, who are the co-chairs of the Atlantic Council’s Commission on Defense Innovation Adoption discuss the group’s interim report that includes 10 recommendations aimed at helping the Pentagon accelerate the adoption of game-changing technologies and capabilities by granting key leaders more authority to make key programmatic decisions more quickly and allow greater budget flexibility to turn promising ideas into fielded capabilities with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine including today’s unmanned aircraft attack against Moscow, impact of the war on Russian society, and CNA’s new report he co-authored with Jeff Edmonds — Russia’s Use of Uncrewed Systems in Ukraine — and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the deal to raise America’s borrowing limit and its implications on defense spending, whether focus on accusations of price gouging by defense contractors changes Pentagon spending sentiment and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss how Wall Street and world markets will view the deal between President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to avert a US debt default, defense and aerospace stock performance on US and European markets, impact of congressional calls that Defense Secretary Austin investigate contractors for price gouging in the wake of a 60 Minutes report and charge that Boeing refused to select pricing data on more than 10,000 replacement parts on defense sentiment and future spending as was the case in the 1980s,re-election of Recip Tayyip Erdogan on Turkey’s national security outlook, QinetiQ earnings and AUKUS outlook, China Eastern makes first passenger flight with Comac’s C919 jetliner, Airbus says it won’t modify A220 to replace A320, Riyadh Air’s interest in at least 150 Boeing 737 Max aircraft, Czech Republic’s $2.4 billion order for CV90 combat vehicles, and what’s next as Ukraine’s offensive looms.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former DoD Europe chief Jim Townsend now with the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss debt ceiling talks as lawmakers fail to reach a deal before leaving Washington for the Memorial Day weekend, Sen. Tommy Tuberville vows continued hold on military confirmations as President Biden names USAF Chief Gen. CQ Brown as next Joint Chiefs chairman, impact of concerns that military contractors are price gouging on future defense spending, Ukraine-backed Russian partisans raid Russia, what happens to US support for Ukraine is American systems are used against Russia, China’s cyber hacks against Guam’s critical infrastructure, key congressional delegation cancels trip to Indo-Pacific and Taiwan, why Washington is trying so hard to normalize relations with Beijing after China’s anger at US shoot down of its spy balloon, takeaways from G7 as well as Quad and Pacific Island leaders forum, what Recip Tayyip Erdogan’s impending reelection means for Turkish democracy, Bibi Netanyahu woo’s Orthodox Israelis with cash and plans to restart his judicial reform push, and US Navy efforts to counter Iran’s high seas piracy.

Uninhabited aircraft rule this week’s Air Power Podcast, powered by GE Aerospace. Vago and J.J. are joined by Mike Shortsleeve, vice president for strategy and business development at General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and a former UAV unit commander, to look at the future of UAVs. And Mark Montgomery comes by to dissect DoD’s big new munitions procurement plans. Plus this week’s headlines in airpower. It’s all kinds of bang for your podcast buck!

On this week’s Technology Report, C3 AI Founder, Chairman and CEO Tom Siebel discusses the step-change implications of generative artificial intelligence, the magnitude of potential society-altering dangers as well as sweeping benefits, the smart approach to regulation that curbs negative impacts without stifling innovation, the use of the technology in weapons particularly by nations like China, Russia, Iran and North Korea, how to think about AI threats in a world where the barriers to developing the technology are falling, the kind of declaratory strategies needed to deter adversaries from employing weaponized AI against the United States and its allies, efforts to harmonize now-scattershot Pentagon AI efforts, and his company’s growth in the DoD market with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Bill Greenwalt, one of the nation’s leading thinkers on defense acquisition at the American Enterprise Institute and the co-author, with Tom Corbin, of the new report from the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney — “Breaking the Barriers: Reforming US Export Controls to Realise the potential of AUKUS” — discusses what the Australia-US-UK partnership is and isn’t, the biggest impediments that stand in the way of delivering capability at speed and scale, the importance of speed to deter conflict, the imperative to change dated and onerous US export controls that hinder much-needed cooperation and irritate allies, areas where the technological partnership among Five Eyes allies can move more quickly and learn lessons that make more complicated efforts easier like equipping Australia nuclear submarines, how to more closely harmonize nuclear submarine technologies among allies to lower production and operating cost, how to more rapidly adopt commercial innovation to quickly and more economically address military needs, and what America can learn from its allies with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Russia’s claim to have taken Bakhmut and Ukraine’s stance they are still control parts of the devastated city, why Wagner Group mercenary and convict force boss Yevgeny Prigozhin isn’t getting credit, how F-16s for Ukraine might change the next phase of the war, the high cost of Russia’s long-range strikes against Kyiv and Ukraine’s successful defense against those strikes, and an unmanned systems update; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the prospects for a deal that averts a US debt default and what that deal might mean for defense spending given what happened in the wake of 2010 debt crisis that resulted in the Budget Control Act of 2011, what analysis of 2011-2016 tells is about what might happen next, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss market reaction to prospect that Washington may be nearing a debt deal and implications for defense spending, the implications on trade as G7 continues to sharpen sanctions on Russia and works to counter Beijing’s economic coercion, reports Biden administration will allow F-16 fighter operator to transfer their aircraft to Ukraine, Britain’s pilot training program, Boeing’s Cascade Climate Model Tool, Rolls-Royce’s UltraFan program, VistaJet’s financial woes, vulnerability of towed artillery in Ukraine, and impact of impact of Recip Tayyip Erdogan remaining in power.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss negotiations to avert a first-ever US debt default, update on authorization and appropriations, G7 nations meet to counter China’s economic coercion and close sanctions loopholes to punish Russia for attacking Ukraine, Beijing’s charm offensive to woo Japan, Europe and Malaysia, Ukraine claws back territory from Russian forces as Moscow pounds Kyiv as Volodymyr Zelenskyy calls for more support, roundup of Indo-Pacific headlines, under congressional pressure Secretary of State Antony Blinken agrees to disclose internal “dissent” memo on America’s botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, Syria returns to the Arab League, and update on Israel’s continuing political turmoil.

Commanding Air Combat – Retired Gen. James “Mobile” Holmes, former commander of Air Combat Command, joins The Air Power Podcast (powered by GE Aerospace!) as ACC prepares to receive a new boss. He covers lessons from Ukraine, training challenges, Agile Combat Employment, capacity vs. capability, the biggest change facing ACC’s new commander, and much more. And we have this week’s headlines in airpower!

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Mike McCord, the Defense Department’s comptroller and chief financial officer, discusses the implications of a first-ever US debt default on the Pentagon and its industrial base as well as a “government slowdown” whereby the government selectively pays its bills rather than defaults, impact of prolonged continuing resolutions on DoD people and programs, defense spending outlook and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell,  Dr. Nina Kollars, the adviser to the undersecretary of defense for research and engineering who also is a professor at the US Naval War College’s Cyber & Innovation Policy Institute, discusses the new National Defense and Technology Strategy, the nature of innovation and risk taking needed at for DoD to successfully harness commercial firms as well as its own industrial base and labs, methodically building the organizational structure and culture for success, balancing top down and bottom up change, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses withdrawal of Russian and Wagner mercenary forces from Bakhmut, loss of four Russian aircraft in a single day, whether Ukraine’s offensive has already started, how new weapons delivered to Kyiv like the Anglo-French Storm Shadow precision cruise missile and unmanned strike drones will change the upcoming offensive and shape Russian actions, outlook for Yevgeny Prigozhin in the wake of disclosure the Wagner boss proposed revealing the location of Russian forces to Ukraine in exchange for averting attacks on his mercenaries, criticism that Russia’s defense ministry is too slow moving; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the rising concern of a US debt default and its impact on defense contractors, analysis of NATO’s new defense spending and planning approach, outlook for the Biden administration’s budget request, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss how US and overseas markets view a possible US debt default and how this latest debt drama is driving the development of new reserve currencies as an alternative to the US dollar including the Euro, prospect of future interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve as inflation slows, whether central bankers will curb inflation without causing a recession, Germany’s order for 60 CH-47F Chinook helicopters from Boeing to replace the country’s fleet of CH-53 helicopters and what the deal means for Sikorsky’s CH-53K, the news that the T-7 Red Hawk trainer by Boeing and Saab for the US Air Force will be delayed by three years, NetJets’ $5 billion order for up to 250 Embraer Praetor 500 business jets, Turkish Airlines’ interest in up to 800 new jetliners, Virgin Orbital and Rocket Lab earnings, order for 300 Boeing 737 Max jets by Ryanair, and Germany’s latest $3 billion arms package for Ukraine that includes more tanks, vehicles, air defense missiles and ammunition.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the latest Washington political maneuvering as America approaches debt default including GOP move to indefinitely postpone budget markups, how to resolve immigration challenge after Article 42’s expiration and Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s hold on military promotions, NATO’s new defense planning guidance that harkens back to Cold War, Britain’s decision to export Storm Shadow long-range precision cruise missiles to Ukraine and why that should inspire Washington to follow suit, Russia’s retreat from Bakhmut, Ukraine’s impending offensive, US-China meeting in Vienna and what’s next for the relationship as G7 convenes and Quad leaders meet, and the critically important lessons from the Vietnam War worth remembering as the nation commemorates the 50th anniversary of the end of the conflict.

Air and missile defense expert Dr. Tom Karako of CSIS joins The Air Power Podcast, powered by GE Aerospace, to review the role of defenses in Ukraine and the future for US capabilities around the world, especially the Indo-Pacific. And we have this week’s headlines in airpower!

On this week’s Technology Report, Jason Salata, a retired US Navy captain and former US Special Operations Command and the US Naval Special Warfare Command spokesman who is now with the Provision Advisors public relations firm that oversees SOF Week’s media center, discusses key messages from US special operations leadership at this year’s gathering in Tampa, standout technologies from the show floor, and changing in the works for next year’s event to better connect companies with good ideas with program officials who can turn them into reality; and Emily Harding of the Center for Strategic and International Studies discusses the National Defense Science and Technology Strategy issued yesterday, how to turn the strategy into reality, the need for greater risk tolerance, the report she co-authored — “Seven Critical Technologies for Winning the Next War” — that theorizes on the nature of future wars America and its allies may have to fight and seven critical technologies needed to win, and how the Pentagon needs to think about artificial intelligence and its uses in everything from decision making to automated weaponry with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Michael Bayer, the chairman of the National Defense Industrial Association, and Arnold Punaro, the former NDIA chairman and Senate Armed Services Committee staff director, discuss a long-term approach to balancing US spending and revenue to avoid future debt default dramas, outlook for reforms and defense spending, priorities for incoming chairman and service chiefs, Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., “unprecedented” hold on promotions, and report card on Biden administration’s filling of political appointee jobs with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Col. Stu Braden, USA Ret., the president and CEO of the Global SOF Foundation, discusses themes from this year’s SOF Week in Tampa including the renewed focus of the special operations community on great power conflict; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the temper tantrum that got Yevgeny Prigozhin the ammunition he wanted for his Wagner Group mercenary and convict force, Ukraine’s use of a US-made Patriot anti-missile system to successfully intercept a Russian Kinzhal hypersonic missile, Ukraine’s attack on Crimea, and the outlook for this year’s Victory Day commemorations in the wake of a drone attack on the Kremlin; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners with highlights from last week’s first 2023 quarter earnings reports, debt ceiling as President Biden to meet with lawmakers tomorrow, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the impact of a potential US debt default on financial markets, holders in American debt and contractors as lawmakers in Washington scramble for a deal, analysis of first 2023 a quarter earnings reports by AerCap, Airbus, Air Lease, Embraer, HII, Leonardo, Rheinmetall, Spirit AeroSystems, and Thales, reports that Airbus might stretch its A220 jetliner as a replacement to the A320 to better compete against Boeing’s 737, the Pentagon steps up weapons production with its latest $1 billion contract for more Javelin antitank missiles, and an update on Russia’s war on Ukraine.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss panic among lawmakers in Washington as a first-ever US debt default looms, implications of debt default on America’s national security, how Europe and Asia — as well as advisories like China and Russia — view the debt antics in Washington, priorities for Gen. CQ Brown as the new chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, prospects for general officer confirmations given hold imposed by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., President Biden’s deployment of 1,500 troops to southern US border, what’s next in Ukraine was as Russia steps up attacks and unmanned aircraft intercepted over the Kremlin, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos’ visit to Washington and Indo-Pacific news roundup, and update on Israeli politics and Armenia-Azerbaijan peace talks.

We talk the whirling world of global air power with Douglas Barrie of the International Institute for Strategic Studies. And GE Aerospace’s David Tweedie on the latest in military aircraft engines.

On this episode of the Technology Report, Bryan Clark, a retired US Navy commander and submariner who is now the director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute, discusses the Pentagon’s new investment in America’s hypersonic weapons industrial base, efforts by the DoD leadership to engage battery and critical minerals makers, attracting commercial firms to help address military needs, and the two reports he co-authored with his colleague Dan Patt — “Unalone and unafraid: Improving the Navy’s process and organization for developing and fielding uncrewed vehicles and mission systems” and “Fighting into the bastions: Sustaining the US Undersea Advantage” with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Todd Harrison, who leads Metrea Strategic Insights — the think tank within the innovative defense and aerospace company — who remains affiliated with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, discusses the implications for DoD of a potential debt default, take aways from DoD posture hearings and deep dives into the Biden Administration's FY '24 budget request with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Bob Hastings, former Army aviator and Bell’s former vice president for marketing and communications, discusses takeaways from last week’s Army Aviation Association of America’s annual meeting, the update on the service’s aviation programs including outlook for the Future Armed Reconnaissance Aircraft and need for human in the loop, and the stand down of Army Aviation in the wake of several deadly accidents; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners takes a look at first 2023 quarter earnings, the prospects for an unprecedented US debt default and what it would mean, and a look at the week ahead.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Securities, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets as inflation worries persist, leading companies including Bombardier, Boeing, General Dynamics, Hexcel, L3Harris, MTU, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and Safran report first 2023 quarter earnings, mounting concern of US debt default as Fitch downgrades France, impact of debt on ability of United States and its allies to continue increasing defense spending, persistent supply chain concerns as Pentagon works to ramp up production, orders fro Comac’s C919 and ARJ21 airliners, EU move to broker deal that allows Ukraine to export much-needed grain through Europe to world market, and UK military role in evacuation of British nationals from Sudan and preparations for coronation of King Charles III.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss the outlook for a US debt default as House Republicans pass a one-year borrowing limit increase and sharp spending cuts, the defense implications of the measure, impact of Alabama Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s hold on general officer promotions, what’s next in the Ukraine war as Russia launches the deadliest missile barrage in weeks and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping talks to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aftermath of statement by China’s ambassador to France Lu Shaye that former Soviet republicans have no legal claim to sovereignty, takeaways from South Korea’s President Yoon Suk-yeol’s state visit to Washington and Australia’s first new security strategy since the Cold War, China’s global base-building strategy including in the UAE, Israel on its 75th anniversary, and securing Armenia’s territorial integrity.

It’s all things B-21 on The Air Power Podcast this week, as the authors of two new studies on the clandestine bomber, Dr. Chris Bowie and Col. (ret) Mark Gunzinger, join us. Plus an update on the Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft, and the week’s airpower headlines. If it’s in the air, it’s on the air!

On this week’s Technology Report, AJ Piplica, the CEO of hypersonic aircraft company Hermeus, discusses how the innovative company he founded in 2018 aims to accelerate now Mach 5 aircraft for commercial and military aircraft are developed, powering the new planes by modifying existing engine designs, the challenge of raising money in a tight market, and the company’s growth strategy; and Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and the Cyber Solarium 2.0 executive director, discusses China’s efforts to hack adversary satellites, Russia’s cyber activity, and reviews the outlook for cyber and technology investment as Congress assesses the Biden administration’s budget request with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this latest episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Gen. Jeffrey Harrigian, USAF Ret., the former commander of the US Air Forces Europe and Africa, discusses the years of effort to build NATO’s ability to surge air power to deter Russia from miscalculating on Feb. 24, 2022, as Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine, organizational as well as technological and cultural changes needed to improve allied air capabilities, the keys to culture change, importance of empowering subordinates, convincing allies and Kyiv of the impending attack, wider lessons from the war, studying Ukraine’s ability to innovate under fire to improve future US capabilities, Russia as persistent threat, the vital importance of air power and 5th generation capabilities with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On today’s program, sponsored by HII, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Ukraine’s drone attack today on Russia’s Black Sea Fleet base in Sevastopol, what to expect from Kyiv’s upcoming offensive and defensive Russian preparations, Moscow’s latest “manly” recruiting campaign, and comments by Armenia’s president that suggest trading Nagorno-Karabakh to secure the country’s territorial integrity on the 108th commemoration of the Armenian Genocide; Laura Winter, the host of The DownLink podcast, on key takeaways from the National Space Symposium and SpaceX’s Starship launch; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners with highlights from last week’s congressional hearings, outlook on raising the debt ceiling as House Speaker Kevin McCarthy put’s his plane for a one-year extension and spending cuts to a vote, Lockheed Martin’s first quarter 2023 earnings, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets, debt ceiling watch, Babcock’s charge on its fixed-price contract on its new generation Type 31 frigate, new leadership at Leonardo and Bell, Lockheed Martin first quarter 2023 earnings and what to expect as the group reports, a look ahead to Airbus returns, impact of limited industrial capacity and how governments can help increase it, market implications of Russia’s increasing cyber as well as undersea espionage and intimidation, SpaceX’s maiden Starship flight and the merits of history’s biggest and most powerful rocket, and takeaways from the National Space Symposium.

On this week’s Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and former Pentagon Comptroller Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss defense budget implications of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s proposal to sharply cut spending for a one-year debt ceiling increase, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg’s visit to Kyiv, alliance efforts to improve Ukraine’s capabilities in advance of its planned offensive, whether Sweden will join the alliance this summer, French efforts to walk back controversial comments by President Emmanuel Macron, Beijing’s response to US efforts to diminish tensions, a review of the week across the Indo-Pacific as new Chinese surveillance capabilities are revealed and senior US leaders testify before Congress, update on Israel’s drive to create a national guard, and Iran on the 40th anniversary of the bombing of the US embassy in Beirut that killed 63 including 17 Americans, injuring another 120.

Rep. Rob Wittman, chair of the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee in the House, joins us to take apart the fiscal 2024 defense budget and look into its prospects in Congress. Plus we have the week’s airpower headlines. If it’s in the air, it’s on the air!

On this week’s Technology Report, Nigel Inkster, the former director of intelligence and operations at the Secret Intelligence Service otherwise known as MI6 who is now the senior advisor for cybersecurity and China at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, discusses the UK’s new Offensive Cyber Capabilities Principles and its role in deterrence as part of integrated military as well as diplomatic and economic means, the need for allies and partners to improve their collective security and ability to deter conflict by adopting common offensive and overall cyber strategies, and using technology to prevent future intelligence breaches; and John CoFrancesco, the founder and CEO of Applied AI Company, on how ChatGPT and apps will comprehensively change national security, what thoughtful regulation of artificial intelligence looks like as lawmakers call for greater insight into algorithms and data sets, and benefits of apps like ChatGPT with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Adm. Mike Rogers, USN Ret., the former director of the National Security Agency and former commander of US Cyber Command who is now the chairman of the advisory board of cybersecurity firm Claroty, discusses the latest and largest leak of top secret US documents in a decade allegedly by Massachussetts Air National Guard A1C Jack Teixiera, the common link among the three largest intelligence disclosures by Chelsea Manning, Edward Snowden and now Teixeira, how technology can help mitigate future unauthorized disclosures, impact of the disclosures on intelligence cooperation with allies and partners, and whether Ukraine will have to change operational plans and Washington can continue to collect from Russian sources in the wake of the leaks with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Russian perceptions of the recent disclosures of US intelligence, an update on Moscow’s war against Ukraine, Wagner Group recruiting of troops and drone operators, and harnessing advanced technology to crack down on Russian draft dodgers; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses how the intelligence leaks could change the defense debate in Washington, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s trip to New York and stance that debt ceiling increase should be negotiated first at the expense of forestalling additional government spending, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets as optimism of a “soft landing” for the US economy grows, the implications of strengthening British pound, the financial and market impact of revelations that the tail sections of 737 Max jets built over the past four years might contain defective components, the aftermath of French President Emmanuel Macron’s stance in the wake of his visit to Beijing, Brazilian President Lula da Silva’s agreement with China’s Xi Jinping to conduct trade directly in yuans and reals to undermine the US dollar, and the Pentagon’s new Defense Contract Finance Study.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Barry Pavel of the Rand Corporation, and former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security join Vago Muradian to discuss the top national security headlines from Washington and around the world.

War! What is it good for?  *Lessons.* Dr. James Chow, director of RAND Project Air Force, joins us to talk lessons from Ukraine, shortening kill chains, Agile Combat Employment, and lots more. Plus we have the week’s airpower headlines. It’s your weekly avgeek fix!

On this week’s Technology Report, Dr. Mark Lewis, the new CEO of Purdue University’s new Applied Research Institute, discusses the institute and university’s national security role, analyzes the technology elements of the Biden administration’s budget request, assess investment in hypersonic weapons technologies and programs, the long-term implications of the national investment in technology including the CHIPS effort to reinvigorate America’s semiconductor capabilities, how to think about artificial intelligence as public perceptions are shaped by apps like ChatGPT, and the technologies we should be paying more attention to with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Bill Lynn, former deputy defense secretary who is now chairman and CEO of Leonardo DRS, discusses the budget outlook, inflation and supply chains, Ukraine war lessons, DoD’s Defense Contract Finance Study, benefits of becoming a NASDAQ listed company, the acquisition of RADA, and how the contract to provide the electric propulsion for the Columbia-class ballistic missile sub could transform future attack subs as well as the naval surface force; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners on macroeconomic themes, key polling data, DoD’s contract study and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets as the US economy posted job growth but slower than in past quarters as investors debate whether the economy is in for a “soft” or “hard” landing as the Federal Reserve continues to battle inflation, analysis of statements by House China committee chair Rep. Mike Gallagher,” R-Wisc., that economic decoupling with Beijing would be selective on highly sensitive areas rather than across the board, implications of French President Emmanuel Macron’s statements on the need for Europe to not get pulled into rising US-China tensions and the need to reduce dependency on the US and the dollar in the wake of his visit to Beijing along with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s trip to Beijing, China’s Airbus orders and the European jet maker’s second final assembly line in Tianjin, Virgin Orbit’s bankruptcy, what’s next in the wake of the Government Accountability Office’s decision to reject Lockheed Martin and Boeing protest of the US Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft Award to Bell, and Leonardo DRS’ $1 billion award to deliver electric propulsion for the US Navy’s Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Barry Pavel of the Rand Corporation, and former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security join Vago Muradian to discuss French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s visit to Beijing, what’s next in the Ukraine war as US and NATO planning documents are leaked, the case for a comprehensive US and allied strategy to better counter China and Russia as both powers work increasingly closely together to reshape global affairs, Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen’s visit to the United States and Beijing’s reaction including threat to board and inspect Taiwanese vessels, whether the China threat is more imminent than Washington anticipates, the Biden administration’s Afghanistan withdrawal after action report, and global perceptions of America in the wake of former President Trump’s indictment and move by Tennessee state house to expel two young Black members.

Navalist Bryan Clark, director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute, joins us to talk the future of the carrier air wing, disaggregating carrier missions, going uninhabited, and lots more. (Pairs perfectly with our interview two weeks ago with his counterpart Jerry Hendrix.) Plus we have the week’s airpower headlines. It’s your weekly avgeek fix!

On this week’s Technology Report, Dale Swartz, a partner at the McKinsey consultancy specializing in technology, innovation and national security and co-author of the report — “Government CHIPS on the table: How higher DOD microelectronics funding is here to stay” — discusses the US investment in America’s semiconductor ecosystem vital for national security and economic prosperity; and from the Navy League’s annual Sea-Air-Space conference a discussion on the importance of live virtual constructive training with Schuyler Moore, the chief technology officer of US Central Command, Capt. Tony Then, USN, the former commander of the US Navy’s Destroyer Squadron 22, Maj. Joe Silverio, USAF, of the US Air Force’s Air Combat Command, and John Bell, the technical director at HII LVC Solutions — the leading provider of live virtual constructive training across DoD — with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Darrell Bricker, the chief executive of Ipsos Public Affairs, discusses the latest global survey of security trends and sentiments with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Bryon Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses takeaways from a blockbuster set of hearings, why the decision against a new engine undermines the relevance of the F-35 Lighting II fighter, a look at the week ahead; and the cohosts of our Cavas Ships podcast — Chris Cavas and Chris Servello — discuss what to expect from the Navy League’s annual Sea-Air-Space conference and tradeshow with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets.

On this week’s Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago to discuss the week in Washington and around the world.

On this week's Air Power Podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, we get deep into the FY24 budget request with the Air Force’s Assistant Secretary for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology, The Honorable Andrew Hunter. You'll hear about the future of NGAD, F-35 constraints and possible production rate increases, and more. And we’ll have the week’s headlines in air power.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Andrea Schaumann of Fortress discusses a strategic approach to risk management, maintaining vigilance against pervasive and persistent threats, examples of successful public-private partnerships, supply chain security, ensuring cyber security investment throughout the life of weapons programs, and role of government and industry in warning of cyber threats with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

In the fourth of a six-part series on command and control, sponsored Ultra Intelligence & Communications, Maj. Gen. Dustin “Dusty” Schultz, USA, the director of strategic operations (G-3/5/7) at US Army headquarters, discusses the service’s approach to realizing Joint All-Domain Command and Control, what needs to be connected and how, the balance between technology and new operational practices, when to stop experimenting and start executing, how cooperation among the military services and combatant commands like US Central Command’s Scarlet Dragon effort to drive innovative approaches and technologies, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the summit between Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping and the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine including Moscow’s decision to return tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus, Russian and Turkish investment in unmanned systems; Dr. David Asher of the Hudson Institute discusses the inefficacy of US sanctions on Russia and what Washington has to do to inflict sufficient damage on Putin and the Russian economy to drive change, and the punitive sanctions that should be imposed on China to undermine Beijing’s military capabilities and hold Beijing accountable for covid-19; and Byron Callan of Capital Alpha Partners on what to expect from upcoming congressional defense spending hearings, the potential pitfalls of Raytheon’s single defense unit is, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets as the Federal Reserve and Bank of England raise interest rates to fight persistent inflation, the link between the banking crisis and increasing the US borrowing limit, outlook for Europe’s military helicopter industry as Australia joins Norway in grounding its NH-90 utility helicopters as week after Canberra decided to ditch its Tiger attack aircraft for Boeing AH-64 Apache, Boeing takes more charges on KC-46 Pegasus aerial tankers for the US Air Force as the service seeks to revamp it’s approach to future refueling aircraft, update on the 787 Dreamliner, takeaways from Bombardier’s virtual investors day, Virgin Orbit’s refinancing, Vladimir Putin’s meeting in Moscow with Xi Jinping, and an update on Russia’s war on Ukraine as Moscow’s offensive stalls as Kyiv prepares its offensive with new Western arms.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss how bank failures might impact efforts to increase America’s borrowing limit to prevent a debt default, GOP proposals to sharply cut federal spending, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s drive for defense reforms, the bipartisan holds that are derailing Biden administration defense confirmations, the outlook for French President Emmanuel Macron after pushing through legislation to increase the retirement age that’s sparked violent nationwide protests, Britain’s Parliament hears from former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Russia’s costly assault on Bakhmut runs out of steam as Ukraine gears up for its offensive as NATO nations increase arms deliveries, takeaways from Vladimir Putin’s meeting with Xi Jinping, update on the week in the Indo-Pacific including North Korea’s unmanned nuclear-powered undersea vehicle program, Iran moves closer to completing a nuclear weapon, and and Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu advances controversial judicial reforms that would reduce the influence of the nation’s supreme court.

On this week's Air Power Podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, retired Navy captain, naval aviator, and noted seapower strategist, Dr. Jerry Hendrix joins us to illuminate the future of Naval aviation. His article in the April issue of The Atlantic, “The Age of American Naval Dominance is Over,” takes a hard look at seapower; on this show, he adds the Naval air dimension. And we present the week's headlines in airpower.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Justin Sherman, the founder of the Global Cyber Strategies consultancy who is also a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Cyber Statecraft Initiative and a Wired Magazine contributor, discusses what to expect from the House Energy and Commerce Committee hearing tomorrow on TikTok, the revelation of TikTok owner ByteDance’s ownership structure, whether to ban foreign social media platforms and if not how best to regulate them, the new Hill & Valley Forum coalition of lawmakers and Silicon Valley firms, Sino-Russian cyber cooperation as Beijing and Moscow warm ties, and what to expect from Chinese and Russian cyber activities as Beijing ratchets up tensions over Taiwan and Moscow seeks to bolster domestic production by stealing foreign intellectual property to compensate for Western sanctions in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this latest episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Vice Adm. Angus Topshee, the commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, discusses his drive to reinvigorate his force’s high-intensity warfighting skills, Canada’s unique role as an Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic power, re-learning the lessons that war at sea is violent and reward those who detect and shoot first, the imperative to strictly limit emissions and innovate to survive in an environment of ubiquitous surveillance and longer-range precision weapons, the need for survivability in a hypersonic age and more unmanned systems, better offensive and defensive weapons, and culture change to better prepare sailors to operate in contested waters far from assistance, more realistic training and instilling a culture that rewards prudent risk taking with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses what to expect from Xi Jinping’s visit with Vladimir Putin in Moscow, update on progress of Russian forces in Ukraine, Moscow’s return of Soviet era restrictions on speech, and lessons in the wake of Russia’s downing of a US Reaper over the Black Sea; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses details of the Biden administration’s defense budget request, whether the banking crisis will constrain the Federal Reserve’s ability to raise interest rates, whether arms control agreements are effectively dead, the impact of GOP anti-Ukraine statements mirroring Kremlin rhetoric, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the Aerodynamic advisory consultancy joint Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets, implications of a banking crisis on defense and commercial aerospace suppliers as well as air carriers and leasing companies, market impact of Pentagon’s $842 billion budget request and the outcome of Britain’s integrated review, whether a recent contract awards and program moves by the US Air Force and Army constitute an effort to throw Boeing a lifeline through radar and tanker as well as attack helicopter contracts, how many more NATO aircraft could be made available to Kyiv now that Poland and Slovenia have agreed to send 17 of their MiG-29s to Ukraine, the broader implications of Russia’s downing of a US MQ-9 Reaper over the Black Sea, Rheinmetall’s strong earnings and bright future outlook as Europe’s most dynamic land systems maker, and analysis of the AUKUS deal to supply Australia with nuclear powered attack submarines and whether Canberra will develop a join submarine with UK after acquiring US-made Virginia-class boats.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join host Vago Muradian to discuss stalled debt deliberations on Capitol Hill as the Federal Reserve grapples with a banking crisis that could impact the central bank’s ability to further raise interest rates to fight inflation much less bail out failed institutions as its borrowing capacity is constrained, analysis of the administration’s $842 billion defense budget request, whether French President Emmanuel Macron can survive after driving through much-needed if unpopular increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64, how Washington should respond to Russia’s downing of an American MQ-9 Reaper unmanned reconnaissance aircraft over international waters in the Black Sea to deter China from miscalculating regarding US and allied intelligence assets in the Indo-Pacific, what’s next as Poland and Slovenia agree to supply Ukraine with 16 MiG-29 fighters including possible escalation with Russia, what to expect from Xi Jinping’s upcoming visit to Moscow as reports surface that Beijing is supplying Russia with assault rifles and body armor, whether the AUKUS deal will deliver capability in time to deter China, new leadership in Beijing as Seoul and Tokyo warm relations and Pyongyang conducts a missile test, and fears that protests of Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s controversial judicial reforms could spark a civil war.

On this week's Air Power Podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, Mitchell Institute UAV expert Dr. Caitlin Lee joins us to dissect Russia's attack on an unarmed U.S. reconnaissance aircraft over the Black Sea. Lt. Gen. David Nahom details the challenges of guarding the United States, High North, the Arctic, and much of the Pacific from Alaska Command, as well as the balloon incident. And we present the week’s headlines in airpower, including the FY24 budget drop. Our coverage of the Air and Space Force’s Association’s annual Aerospace Warfare Symposium was sponsored by GE Aerospace, Leonardo DRS and Helicon Chemical.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Dr. Jim Lewis, the director of the Strategic Technologies Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, discusses resources for the Biden administration’s National Cyber Strategy, analyzes the strategy, lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine as the conflict spans into its second year, the cyber threat from Moscow, and the national security implications of new commercial AI products like ChatGPT with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, the Defense & Aerospace Team, Chris Cavas, Chris Servello, Lara Winter and JJ Gertler, dissect and  analyze DoD's FY 2024 budget submission with host Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses key takeaways from the Biden administration’s $842 billion defense budget request and looks at the week ahead, and Lt. Col. Alex “Stoiky” Goldberg, ANG, who is the director of the Defense Innovation Unit in Austin discusses implications of the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank on which so many innovative firms depend, rapidly harnessing innovation to more rapidly field capabilities needed in Ukraine or better deter China, creatively replenishing weapons stocks and why Austin’s innovation ecosystem is unique with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian from SXSW in Austin, Texas.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the Aerodynamic advisory consultancy joint Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets and the impact of the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank on the defense innovation ecosystem and whether the shock will prompt the Federal Reserve to forgo additional interest rate hikes to control inflation, the US government’s decision not to bail the bank out, the new Anglo-French accord and earnings of leading firms like Dassault Aviation as well as Leonardo and Thales, Embraer earnings and GE’s investor day, plans by Saudi Arabia’s new carrier to acquire 100 wide-body jetliners, the industrial and national security implications of the AUKUS deal to be announced tomorrow to furnish Canberra with nuclear-powered attack submarines, analysis of the Biden administration’s $842 billion defense budget request including US Air Force plans to develop an all-new aerial tanker able to operate in contested airspace and the cost-plus nature of Boeing’s contract for new E-7 radar planes, the Navy’s decision to gap amphibious ship purchases, and expectations that Congress will dramatically increase spending.

On this week’s Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and CavasShips co-host Chris Servello join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the outlook for a deal to raise America’s borrowing limit, update on Russia’s war on Ukraine and the prospects for deliveries of new capabilities including combat aircraft as two Ukrainian pilots undergo assessment on F-16 simulators, whether Turkey or Hungary will allow Sweden to join NATO, the implications of Moscow’s transfer of highly enriched uranium to Beijing, Xi Jinping’s new muscular anti-American rhetoric, analysis of the AUKUS deal to be announced Monday by President Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that would equip Australia first with US-made attack subs until a suitable UK design is developed and enters production, first impressions of the Biden administration’s $842 billion defense spending request that falls short of expectations, and Beijing’s role in brokering a Saudi-Iranian on diplomatic recognition and its implications on the rising strife between Israel and Palestinians.

It's a mile-high show this week on the Defense & Aerospace Report Air Power podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace. Air Force Chief of Staff General CQ Brown and Vago Muradian discuss the challenges of changing service culture; Seventh Air Force commander Lt Gen Scott "Rolls" Pleus briefs Vago on the evolving North Korean threat; and we review the highlights of this year's Aerospace Warfare Symposium with Byron Callan of Capital Alpha Partners. All the conversations you wish you'd had if you'd been there. Leonardo DRS and Helicon Chemical sponsored our Symposium coverage along with GE.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, JC Vega, a retired US Army colonel who confounded the Army Cyber Institute, discusses the Biden administration’s National Cyber Strategy, investing for success, how to improve public l-private partnerships, accelerating government change through smarter incentives, harnessing technology to simplify security and ease personnel demands, and creating national cyber-mindedness with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell,  Maj. Gen. Ed Thomas, USAF, the commander of the US Air Force Recruiting Command, discusses what makes America’s newest generation tick, the challenges in attracting them to military service in a society where fewer Americans service in uniform and how that all impacts recruiting, the difficulties of retaining talent whether on the active-duty force or transitioning them to Reserve or Air National Guard units, how a new generation is helping change the force, and how the military services are cooperating closely despite competing intensely for talent with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Russia’s incremental advances on Bakhmut, the largest tank on tank engagement in Europe since the Battle of Kursk and why Russia was routed by Ukrainian forces, what Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu’s visit to the front, claims by Wagner Group’s Yevgeny Prigozhin that his force isn’t able to advance because it can’t get enough ammunition, Belarus ramps up drone production to help Moscow as it gets harder to buy DJI commercial quad copters in Russia; and our producer Chris Servello discusses the messaging challenges facing the Biden administration as it prepares to submit it’s defense budget request — expected at about $850 billion — to Congress March 13, the potential perils of a defense budget nearing a trillion dollars as American question the state of the nation’s infrastructure and debt, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Defense & Aerospace Report Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Rocket Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners, and Richard Aboulafia of the Aerodynamic advisory consultancy joint Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to review the week on world markets and the performance of aerospace and defense equities, impact of new US aluminum tariffs on Russia and whether existing sanctions on titanium are effective, China’s new 5 percent growth target and commercial air travel, expectations from US defense budget submission on March 9 and Sunak government’s budget release on March 15, whether Europe can surge to produce the 250,000 artillery rounds a month Ukraine says it needs to fight Russia, how Washington would react to Saudi Arabia joining the UK-led Tempest combat aircraft program that includes Italy, Japan and Sweden or the UAE becoming the next partner in the French-German-Spanish SCAF future fighter effort, and the importance of the new US Air Force cost-plus contract with Boeing for E-7 radar planes to replace the venerable E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft.

On this week’s Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago to discuss the week in Washington and around the world including stalled debt talks, how the Pentagon’s new abortion policy could impact defense spending, whether congressional and allied support for Ukraine is wavering as Washington imposes new sanctions and Russia suffers battlefield setbacks, how the House Select Committee on China could change the US and global consensus on how to approach Beijing, White House’s decision on F-16s for Taiwan and new Conventional Arms Transfer Policy, and update on concern that Iran could field a nuclear weapon in weeks rather than months, and worsening crisis between Israelis and Palestinians.

This week's Air Power Podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, examines the United States’ ability to surge aircraft production in the wake of Boeing’s announcement that the F-18 production line is ending, with industrial base expert Dr. Jerry McGinn and aviation guru Richard Aboulafia. And a preview of next week’s Air and Space Forces Association warfare symposium, with Maj.Gen. Doug Raaberg.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and the executive director of the Cyber Solarium 2.0 project, discusses the Biden administration’s upcoming National Cyber Strategy, how to better secure the cloud, cyber elements of the Biden administration’s March 8 budget request, cyber lessons from Russia and whether deterrence and defending forward are working, CISA Director Jen Easterly’s warning that China would mount cyber attacks against the United States in the wake of a Taiwan crisis, and our producer Chris Servello, a founder of Provision Advisors public relations firm (and Defense and Aerospace team member)  joins to discuss takeaways from the inaugural prime-time hearing of the House Select Committee on China with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Todd Harrison, who leads Metrea Strategic Insights -- the think tank within the innovative defense and aerospace company -- who remains affiliated with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, discusses expectations as the Biden administration prepares to submit its 2024 budget request to Congress, how much will be requested as well as spending priorities, the impact of debt ceiling deliberations and ways to avoid a devastating default, the prospect for a full-year continuing resolution, and the perils of innovation theater with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses Russia’s war on Ukraine on the conflict’s first anniversary, the prospect that the Wagner Group will have competition, new generation of US drones heading to Ukraine, and lessons Moscow has learned from the war; and Bryon Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners on inflation, war lessons and budget expectations, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Business Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Sash Tusa of the independent equity research firm Agency Partners and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss the week on world markets; BAE, Hensoldt and Rolls-Royce earnings; Boeing halts deliveries of 787 jetliners and decided to end production of F/A-18 Super Hornet fighters in late 2025; lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine as the conflict enters its second year; the implications of a world separated into those aligned with the West, support Russia and China, or don’t care; keeping Beijing from openly sending arms to Russia; new opportunities for innovative firms willing to invest new capabilities and deliver them at scale; and a look at McKinsey’s e-regional aircraft summit and more.

On this week’s Washington Roundtable, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Michael Herson of American Defense International, Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, and Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago to discuss the week in Washington and around the world including the US debt limit and defense spending, President Biden’s vow to help Kyiv win the war and what that means as Russia’s war on Ukraine enters its second year, the right way to respond to China if Beijing starts supplying arms to Moscow, American lawmakers visit Taipei, North Korea’s missile tests and pushback on Israel’s judicial reforms and implications of increasingly deadly strikes against Palestinians.

On this week’s episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Air Power podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, co-hosts Vago Muradian and JJ Gertler review the air war in Ukraine one year into the conflict with airpower and Defense observers Dr. Stacie Pettyjohn and Becca Wasser of the Center for a New American Security. And a bombshell announcement in this week’s airpower news.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Mike Canty, CEO of ARC — Armaments Research Company — an innovative artificial intelligence company he co-founded in 2016, discusses how the application of AI that helps soldiers track ammunition use and weapon health can change how the force fights and shape the service’s joint, all-domain command and control future with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this latest episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Richard Fontaine, the president and CEO of the Center for a New American Security, discusses key takeaways from the Munich Security Conference, whether allies are committed to Ukraine’s victory or enough support for a negotiated settlement, how a Russian victory in Ukraine could encourage China to miscalculate over Taiwan, analyzing the alliance’s incremental approach to furnishing Ukraine with steadily more capable weapons, the message President Biden’s unprecedented trip to Kyiv sends to friends and enemies alike, the right long-term strategy toward Russia, Vladimir Putin’s decision to suspend the New START treaty, whether the United States is sharpening its nuclear-mindedness as quickly as necessary given Russia, Chinese and North Korean atomic weapons programs, lessons from the Ukraine war that can better deter China in Asia. how Washington should respond if Beijing begins to overtly supply Moscow with weapons, deterring an united China and Russia, what a sound US long-term strategy toward China looks like, balancing a foreign policy with human rights at its core with the necessity for realpolitik, former President Carter’s legacy, adjusting US security policy and capabilities as new technologies disrupt societies and warfighting alike, examples good and bad strategy, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Mixed week on Wall Street as investors worry inflation isn’t cooling fast enough and the economy might face a harder landing than hoped — Ukraine’s allies worldwide vow to send more equipment so the country can beat back Russia’s assault as Moscow steps up its attacks and President Biden shows his solidarity with a surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital — All eyes are now on whether the United States and other powers will equip Ukraine with modern combat aircraft — The defense budget outlook as America’s debt limit looms and lawmakers vow to boos spending to better deter China in the wake of Beijing’s brazen spy balloon flight that appears to have triggered tectonic change — The Pentagon’s rising hypersonic investment, Bell’s new helicopter contracts, and Iran takes delivery of new fighter aircraft — Airbus and Safran report results as Saab holds its Capital Markets Day

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Chris Servello, a founder of Provision Advisors public relations firm (and Defense and Aerospace team member) and Dr. Kathleen McInnis who leads the Smart Women, Smart Power Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Topics: — US debt debate as the Treasury Department warns Washington will default on financial obligations in July as the Congressional Budget Office finds America is on track to borrow another $19 trillion over the coming decade — The impact of China’s spy balloon over America on the outlook for spending as the Biden administration prepares to submit its budget request to Congress early next month that is expected to be higher than the amount requested last year — US-China relationship in wake of balloon flight and Beijing’s threats as well as escalation of rhetoric while failing to answer calls from Washington — The reality that Vladimir Putin remains a threat irrespective of the outcome of the Ukraine War — What’s next in the conflict as the first anniversary of Moscow’s illegal attack on Ukraine approaches and Russia plans a new offensive that would also come from Belarus — Key themes of this weekend’s Munich Security Policy Conference days after NATO leaders met to supply Kyiv with more aid — Messages that China will be delivering in Munich as Beijing seeks to portray Western response to Russian aggression as the threat rather than Moscow’s invasion of a sovereign Ukraine — Equipment Ukraine needs to blunt the coming offensive and the Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s urgent message that speed with which aid is delivered is critical — Whether Washington has the ability, people, budget and mindset to simultaneously deter Russia and China — Roundup of Asia newsflow including the decision by key White House China hand Laura Rosenberger to step down, South Africa’s coming 10-day naval exercises with Russia and China — US-Philippine relations take another step forward — Israel’s constitutional crisis and Iran’s future as opposition to the Islamic Republic’s leadership grows but moves underground — Outlook for Iran’s relationship with China as Beijing also warms ties with Saudi Arabia

On this week’s episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Air Power podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, co-hosts JJ Gertler and Vago Muradian go to school with experts on radar, balloons, and missiles — all in the person of renowned technologist and former Air Force chief scientist Dr. Mark Lewis. It’s a lively discussion that gets into the technical world with humor and clarity. And we go behind the headlines in this week’s airpower news.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Scott Sloan, the president of Stratas Corp. — an innovative IT, logistics, cyber security, network operations and engineering services firm — discusses the challenges of growing fast as a DoD contractor, grading Pentagon efforts to foster innovation and harness it at speed, access to talent and capital, and keys to success; and Chris Servello, our producer and co-host of the Cavas Ships podcast with an update from the annual AFCEA-USNI West Conference in San Diego with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sabra Horne, an NSA and CISA veteran who is now the entrepreneur in residence at the BMNT consultancy, discusses efforts to accelerate US government and Pentagon innovation efforts are bearing fruit, where progress is being made, why real innovation is more than just technology but culture change and personnel practices, how to speed the process, the role of the Office of Personnel Management in crafting a talent management system that rewards prudent risk taking, and luring new talent to government service at a time when working for private industry is increasingly more lucrative with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses statement by Wagner Group chief and Kremlin insider Yevgeny Prigozhin that Russia’s war on Ukraine could span another two years for Moscow to achieve objectives like seizing territory to the Dnieper River, Russia transforms to a wartime economy in wake of weapons demands and international sanctions, Wagner Group decides against sending more prisoners to the front, the implications of the Russian unmanned surface vessel’s attack on a bridge in Odesa, and the assassination of a key Russian unmanned systems designer in Luhansk; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the four unidentified air vehicles downed over US and Canadian airspace over the past week and what it could mean for the defense spending as the Biden administration prepares its 2024 budget request, an update on prospects for budget, debt ceiling as well as continuing resolution, takeaways from last week’s House industrial base hearing, taxing share buybacks, defense sector margin trends and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Week on world markets as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell suggests a less hawkish stance on future interest rate hikes — Look at Bombardier, HII, Saab, Spirit AeroSystems, and Transdigm Group earnings as Europe looks to results from Airbus, Safran and others — Mitsubishi cancels the SpaceJet program and what the move says about the regional aircraft market — Washington approves $10 billion arms package for Poland and impact of Norway’s decision to opt for 54 new Leopard over Korea’s K2 tanks — Outlook for NATO approval of Western combat aircraft for Ukraine as Volodymyr Zelenskyy takes his case for fighters to UK Parliament and allies — Roundup of President Biden’s State of the Union address and market expectations of the administration’s upcoming defense budget request — Analysis of the downing of two additional craft over US and Canadian airspace in the wake of the shoot down of a Chinese spy balloon last week — Takeaways from the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance conference last week in Seattle — Update on Air India’s order for some 500 Airbus and Boeing jetliners

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Chris Servello, a founder of Provision Advisors public relations firm (and Defense and Aerospace team member) and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Update on raising the nation’s borrowing limit as talks stall — Analysis of President Biden’s State of the Union address and the flight of a Chinese spy balloon across the United States before it was shot down — What the balloon episode tells us about what to expect from the administration about defense spending and the future of the relationship between the United States and China — Roundup of Asia headlines including reaction to Shinzo Abe’s posthumous autobiography — Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s powerful address to Britain’s Parliament and his call for combat aircraft and more weapons as Russia ramps up its offensive — Turkey’s response to the devastating earthquake that’s killed more than 20,000 and left millions homeless — The exodus of capital from Israel and Bibi Netanyahu seeks to upend the country’s legal system

On this week’s episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Air Power podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, co-hosts JJ Gertler and Vago Muradian analyze the news of the week and interview an expert on both remotely piloted aircraft like balloons and how to bring them down, airpower analyst and former F-16 pilot Heather Penney of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Power Studies. She discusses the lessons learned from the recent Chinese balloon incursion over the United States; challenges in bringing down such an aircraft; the intelligence benefits of studying it both in flight and on the ground; the seams in turning target detection to action, the need for more airpower in Ukraine, and more.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Jim Richberg, the former national intelligence manager for cyber who is now with cyber security firm Fortinet, discusses the cyber vulnerabilities of the nation’s air travel system in which government, industry and the public all interact, how to improve security as the internet of things rapidly expands and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this latest episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Peter Van Praagh, the president of HFX, an organization that promotes democracy worldwide and annually convenes the signature Halifax International Security Forum in Halifax, Nova Scotia, discuss the importance of putting democracy and human rights at the center of national security, the right approach to balancing principles and realpolitik in dealing with unsavory regimes, why the world must help Ukraine beat Russia ad reclaim all its territory from Russian occupation, a long-term approach to changing Russia, a global approach to deterring an authoritarian and increasingly assertive China, assessing the health of democracies and countering authoritarian sentiments worldwide, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr David Asher, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute think tank and one of the world’s leading experts on sanctions, discusses the efficacy of the unprecedented sanctions imposed on Russia in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine and how lessons from the harsh sanctions on Tehran can help ratchet up pressure on Moscow; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on the Russo-Ukrainian war, the Marker UGV’s debut, that Vladimir Putin remains in charge; and whether Russia’s expected offensive has already started; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firms Capital Alpha Partners on earnings takeaways and share buybacks, Mercury Systems’ future, the implications of China’s spy balloon overflight and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — US aerospace and defense stock performance as America posts stunning jobs figures and Federal Reserve makes .25 percent short term borrowing rate rise — European performance by the group as Bank of England raises interest rates to fight inflation without sparking recession — Impact of Chinese reconnaissance balloon flight across America and eventual shoot down as Beijing tries to warm relations itself has frosted with Washington and its allies — Implications of Advent acquisition of Mercury Systems as the innovative US chip maker considers putting itself on the market and the private equity firm expresses interest in making a deal — Boeing to open new 737 production line at the company’s giant plant in Everett, Wash. — Update on supply chains and their impact on Airbus and Boeing production — Legacy of Boeing 747 jetliner as the last of 1,574 of the iconic aircraft that revolutionized air travel was delivered to Atlas Air — Update on the squabble between Qatar Airways and Airbus — France and Italy order 700 Aster anti air missiles as part of broader European drive to improve capabilities — What’s next as Russia steps up assault on Ukraine before Kyiv takes delivery of donated infantry fighting vehicles and tanks

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Prospects for a debt ceiling deal as President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy meet — Impact of debt deliberations on defense spending outlook — New committee assignments and what they mean — What Beijing is messaging by sending reconnaissance balloons over the United States as White House calls off Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Beijing in the wake of Chinese surveillance balloon flight over United States — The case for bringing down the balloon to study determine its capabilities and signal that violations of American airspace won’t be tolerated — What’s next as Russia speeds up offensive before Ukraine gets new armored vehicles and tanks — Whether NATO nations will supply Ukraine with combat aircraft as Biden rejects F-16 fighters as allies like France and other Viper operators express openness to transferring jets to Kyiv — Growing US perception that Britain’s military capabilities are eroding with economic prosperity — Agreements in the wake of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s visits to Seoul and Manila, including landmark deal to return US forces to Philippines — US-India emerging tech initiative — Rift between American Jews and Israel’s Netanyahu government as Blinken visits Israel and Palestinian Authority — Israel’s drone attack on Iranian weapons sites

On this week’s program, sponsored by GE Aerospace, Vago Muradian and J.J. Gertler talk with retired lieutenant general Joseph “Gus” Guastella, senior fellow at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies. A former AFCENT commander and Air Force Director of Operations, Lt Gen Guastella has thoughtful views on Ukraine, warfighting culture, integrating appropriate technology into the battlefield, capability versus capacity, and many more subjects.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, John Cofrancesco, the founder of AAIC, an innovative company that uses AI to monitor cyber networks, discusses the threat posed by TikTok, how to mitigate the threat from such invasive apps, the looming threat from Russia as allied nations increase assistance to Ukraine, what to expect from the Biden administration’s upcoming National Cyber Strategy and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

In the third of a six-part series on command and control, sponsored Ultra Intelligence & Communications, Brig. Gen. Jeff “Spaniard” Valenzia, the Advanced Battle Management System Cross Functional Team Lead at Air Force headquarters, discusses the DoD’s new JADC2 approach, doing the hard work to craft the right architecture for joint command and control, focusing more on changing how people think about connectivity than merely relying on technology to interconnect forces, learning clear lessons from the past, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Chris Servello, our producer who is a retired Navy public affairs officer and co-founder of the Provision Advisors PR firm, discusses lessons in the wake of the controversy caused by a draft email by Gen. Mike Minihan, the commander of the Air Mobility Command, urging his force to improve its warfighting focus, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine including new Marker UGV as well as Israel’s drone attacks on Iran; Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm firm Capital Alpha Partners with a look at the week ahead; and Laura Winter, the host of The Downlink, our space podcast, discusses the global great power game on ground stations with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Aerospace and defense stock performance as US posts strong jobs growth and Britain prepares interest rate hike — Preview of Airbus earnings to be released Feb. 16 — Update of commercial aerospace market trends — Boeing, CACI, Crane, General Dynamics, Hexcel, L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, Teledyne and Textron report earnings — C-suite defense budget outlook as concerns in Washington mount over debt and Biden administration prepares spending request that includes $30 billion increase — Analysis of Boeing’s delivery figures and drive to hire 10,000 new workers, Northrop’s disclosure of B-21 Raider bomber delays, and Raytheon’s reorganization — Challenge Boeing will face recruiting, retaining and training talent and future of giant Everett facility as 747 production ends as last jet delivered on Jan. 31 — Whether combat aviation will be exported next now that Washington, London and Berlin have approved tank exports to Ukraine

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Deliberations to avoid a US debt default as worries mount over full-year continuing resolution and prospect of defense cuts — New committee leadership assignments and members, as well as move by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to oust three prominent Democrats from panels — Washington approves M1 tanks for Ukraine, clearing the way for Germany to export Leopards — Concern that Russia might capture US M1s prompts Army to seek new build tanks without top secret armor protection rather than pull existing vehicles from inventory — What the public wrangling over weapons for Ukraine signals, and whether the alliance is still moving too slowly to equip Kyiv as Moscow prepares another offensive — Implications of White House move to designate Russia’s Wagner mercenary group as transnational terror organization — Turkey vows to block Sweden from joining NATO after man burns copy of Koran in from of Turkey’s embassy in Stockholm, complicating Sweden and Finland’s accession as Budapest signals reluctance to support the alliance’s expansion — What it will take to win over Ankara and Budapest — NATO Secretary General visits South Korea and Japan as US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin prepares to visit Seoul and Manila — Update on AUKUS effort to equip Australia with nuclear powered submarines as AUKMIN convenes — Palestinians stage mass demonstrations in wake of Israeli raid on suspected militants that killed nine

On this week’s episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Air Power podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, co-hosts JJ Gertler and Vago Muradian analyze the news of the week and interview their first guest, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall who discusses the implications of a full-year continuing resolution and budget cuts — warning they would only help China as the service embarks on a generational modernization effort — lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine, making the case for the importance of air power, the need to bolster the munitions industrial base for current programs like JASSM ER and LRASM as well as future hypersonic weapons, re-invigorating the Air Force’s high intensity warfighting culture, and more.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Dr. Jim Lewis, the director of the Strategic Technologies Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, discusses the right approach to unlocking the benefits of artificial intelligence without stifling innovation, a look ahead to the Biden administration’s upcoming cyber strategy, the cyber jobs market as tech firms shed workforce, and how the government’s antitrust suit against Google could change the future of online ads with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Former Reps. Tony Coelho, D-Calif., and Martin Frost, D-Texas, of the Council for a Secure America, discuss the energy lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine, the importance of energy independence and bridging to a sustainable energy future; and Bryan Clark of the Hudson Institute on the think tank’s new report be helped co-author — “Rocket’s Red Glare: Modernizing America’s Energetics Enterprise” — with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and a fellow at the Center fora New American Security on the latest on Russia’s war on Ukraine including insights into the campaign to retake Soledar and Klishchiivka, Vladimir Putin tamps down on critics, implications of leadership changes and more; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners on how the debt ceiling debate will be resolved, geopolitical risks to pay attention to, the need to bolster war production and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Aerospace and defense stock performance as Wall Street posts its best Friday close in two weeks and markets hopes grow that next Federal Reserve rate increases will be small — Update on global air travel at the start of the Lunar New Year and China outlook as covid continues its deadly sweep across the nation — NASA’s partnership with Boeing to explore transonic truss-braced wing demonstrator to explore future airliner technologies — Whether the NASA program validates Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun’s reluctance to develop a new middle market jetliner to remain competitive with Airbus — Analysis of the logic behind major firms cutting independent research and development funding in favor of venture capital partnerships  — What Germany’s reluctance to either export Leopard tanks to Ukraine nor allow allies to transfer their vehicles to Kyiv signals about Berlin’s reliability as an weapons development partner — Rosy future for Boeing F-15EX fighter as Israel joins US Air Force in ordering the revised version of the venerable Eagle  — Look ahead to earnings as leading US firms prepare to report starting next week

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Global implications of a US debt default as Treasury Secretary Janet Yellin warns that only “extraordinary measures” will allow the government to remain solvent unless Congress raises the nation’s borrowing limit — Political dynamics on the Hill as House members demand spending cuts across government and the White House refuses to negotiate — Moves the Pentagon can make to stretch out its budget — How US allies and partners view the debt spectacle and lessons on how the 2011 Budget Control Act just national security — Washington assures Ukraine of continuing support as allies meet in Germany to supply Kyiv with more heavy weapons — What’s driving Washington’s shift on backing Ukraine’s effort to retake Crimea  — How Israel and South Korea as responding to US move to draw down arms from stockpiles in both nations to help Ukraine — Biden administration’s seeks 40 F-16s fighters for Turkey in exchange for Ankara’s support for Sweden and Finland’s NATO membership — China’s global charm offensive as Australia moves to restore trade ties — Whether Xi Jinping is actually pressuring Vladimir Putin on the Russian leader’s war on Ukraine or merely part of a PR posturing effort — Future of Israel’s democracy as Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu and his support clash with the country’s Supreme Court

On this latest episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Jack Watling, the senior research fellow for land Warfare at the Royal United Services Institute, discusses the lessons of Russia’s war on Ukraine with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Justin Sherman, the founder of Global Cyber Strategies as well as an Atlantic Council fellow and Wired magazine contributor, discusses LockBit’s ransomware attack on Britain’s Royal Mail, and the best approach to countering the potential negative implications of apps like TikTok, whether banning them entirely or allowing a third-party to monitor software and data; and Andrea Schaumann of Fortress discusses industry focus areas for 2023 with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this inaugural episode of the weekly Defense & Aerospace Report’s Air Power podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace, co-hosts JJ Gertler and Vago Muradian analyze the big stories, including the plan by the US Air Force to retire its RC-26 reconnaissance aircraft fleet, lessons the Air Force can learn from the Navy in selling air power on Capitol Hill and beyond, implications of buying fewer F-35 Lighting II fighters each year but stretching the program out by a decade, the freeze on new F135 engine deliveries by maker Pratt & Whitney after an accident late last year at Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Fort Worth, and Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall interest in stealthy tanker aircraft and how such a requirement could shape the service’s air mobility fleet as leaders look to develop a new generation of transport aircraft.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory. Topics: — Aerospace and defense stock performance on Wall Street — Bank of America’s Savita Subramanian warning she expects corporate earnings to drop 10 percent in 2023 and what that means for the defense and aerospace group — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellin’s warning that America will hit its borrowing limit on Thursday — Impact of China’s new charm offensive on the outlook for globalization as Beijing looks to reverse setbacks from covid and the global political, economic and diplomatic backlash from its own aggressiveness — Analysis of Boeing’s commercial and military delivery figures — US Air Force move to seek new radar for F-35 Lightning II as series eyes new engine to ensure the multi-mission stealth fighter remains relevant — Maintain perceptive on the first space launch from British soil after a Virgin Orbit rocket with nine satellites aboard failed — As Britain sends Challenger tanks to Ukraine as other allies consider following suit, what Washington is doing to bolster weapons production

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Potential defense budget impact of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s promises to win the gavel as well as new committees and cardinal assignments — Whether Senate will follow House on everything from defunding the IRS to Pentagon spending — How the revelation of that classified documents were found at President Biden’s former post-vice presidential office as well as his Delaware home will impact congressional political dynamics — After Washington, Paris and Berlin agree to equip Ukraine with armored fighting vehicles, Washington and London consider sending tanks to bolster Kyiv’s capabilities — Claim by Russia’s Wagner mercenary group to have taken the tiny Ukrainian town of Soledar, a claim Ukraine rejects — Vladimir Putin fires Gen. Sergey Surovikin, replacing him with Gen. Valery Gerasimov, chief of Russia’s general staff — How the most muscular US and Allied approach in supporting Kyiv is being received in Beijing — Issues that are consuming Chinese leadership bandwidth aside from coping with a devastating covid infection and death rates — Japan’s accelerating drive to improve its defense and deterrent capabilities, including building its own capabilities and working more closely with partners across the Indo-Pacific — Warning by the FBI of the role of Chinese police stations in areas with large Chinese populations whether in the United States or around the world  — Suggestion by Seoul that it would consider developing nuclear weapons — What to expect from summit between Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida  — National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan’s comments in Mexico City that Washington is not making revival of the Iran nuclear deal a priority after Tehran’s military support for Russia in its war on Ukraine

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Vice Adm. Bill Galinis, USN, the commander of the Naval Sea Systems Command, discusses inflation, supply chain, attracting as well as training and retaining talent, the need for a national approach to building better technical trade skills, lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine, building better battle damage repair skills, increasing both public and private shipbuilding and repair capacity, incentivizing speed through better contracts, lessons from recent shipbuilding programs that will improve upcoming destroyer, cruiser, amphibious and submarine development programs; and the cohosts of the Cavas Ships podcast — our Contributing Editor Chris Cavas and our Producer Chris Servello — with a recap of the Surface Navy Association’s national symposium and tradeshow with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian. We are an SNA media partner and our coverage was sponsored by HII and GE Marine, a GE Aerospace company.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Chris Kastner, the president and CEO of HII, discusses inflation pressures, supply chain, the impact of a full-year continuing resolution, recruiting as well as training and retaining top talent, working with the Navy to increase shipbuilding and maintenance capacity, how the company’s new capabilities can help shape more innovative capabilities, how better contracts can drive better program outcomes, the outlook for shipbuilding as Congress prepares to increase its role in shaping fleet size, and lessons from past programs that can help shape more successful future destroyer, cruiser and amphibious ship programs with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and a Cyber Solarium 2.0 executive director, discusses the outlook for cyber funding as a fractious Congress reconvenes, the impact of a possible year-long continuing resolution on cyber contractors and new starts, why America’s cyber forces should be patterned after the US Special Operations Command, a look ahead to the Biden administration’s National Cyber Strategy that is to be released over the coming weeks, the legacy of Chris Inglis as he prepares to step down from his tenure as the first National Cyber Director, and issues to watch over the coming year with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the defense spending implications in the wake of Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s, R-Calif., election as house speaker, the prospect of a year-long continuing resolution, the year ahead for defense contractors and Ukraine aid as well as the Russo-Ukrainian war, the need for more talent across commercial and defense industries to increase capacity, China, other issues to watch and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: —Michael Herson of American Defense International explains the national security implications of promises made by Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., in exchange for votes to become nation’s 53rd speaker including on defense spending and Ukraine aid — Impact of year-long continuing resolution on defense contractors at home, and aboard — Update on aerospace and defense stock performance on US and European markets — China travel impact as Beijing lifts zero covid constraints — Boeing, Dassault and Lockheed Martin deliveries — How London, Washington and Canberra can work together to furnish Australia with nuclear-powered attack submarines and the industrial base to build them down under — Takeaways from Bank of America Merrill Lynch’s annual defense and aerospace outlook conference

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — National security implications of discord on Capitol Hill where on the second anniversary of the Jan. 6 insurrection, chaos reigns as Republicans are unable to select a House Speaker — How American political discord is being perceived by adversaries like Russia and China as well as allies in Europe and Asia — Outlook for Ukraine war as Biden administration expected to follow France and Germany in exporting armored vehicles to Kyiv — What to expect from the Ukraine war in the coming year, especially if news reports are confirmed that Vladimir Putin has fired a second general leading Russian operations — How Chinese leaders expect to weather up to a million covid fatalities during and in the wake of the Lunar New Year, and emerge economically stronger in 2023 — Update on increasing tensions between Seoul and Pyongyang over drone overflights and Japan’s steps up its security game — Warning by top US lawmakers against diverting much-needed American submarine industrial capability on providing nuclear subs to Australia at the expense of US Navy’s priority of one Columbia-class ballistic missile sub and two Virginia-class attack boats — A look at the big issues of 2023 — Whether Turkey and Azerbaijan will try to seize the southern tip of Armenia, a move that could precipitate a conclude involving Russia and Iran

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — A look at US and European markets as investors closed out 2022 — Boeing’s drive to deliver as many aircraft as possible before the end of the year — Pentagon’s $30 billion contract to Lockheed Martin for 398 F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft — L3Harris’ planned acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne — The big defense and aerospace trends of 2023 including whether covid will again emerge as a global challenge — A preview of the Defense & Aerospace Report’s new Air Power podcast, sponsored by GE Aerospace and co-hosted by JJ Gertler and Vago Muradian

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Congress goes down to the wire to approve $1.7 trillion appropriations measure to keep government from closing — What chaotic year-end process tells us about legislative year to come — Whether Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington and powerful address to joint session of Congress will changer vector of US support for Kyiv in 2023 — How Russia’s war on Ukraine has changed Washington, Europe and Aisa’s approach toward strategic thinking and security — Why those who criticize Europe for not doing enough to support Ukraine are wrong — French President Emmanuel Macron’s latest call for greater European security investment — Review of China’s moves this year, including Beijing’s escalation of rhetoric before Xi Jinping’s coronation, and the charm offensive that followed — Reversal of China’s covid policy and what it means for economic activity in the new year as many return to hometowns to celebrate lunar new year — Unraveling of Afghanistan and Iraq despite wars and US investment totaling more than $4 trillion and thousands of lives — Israel and Iran recap

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, a year in review with Dr. Jim Lewis, the director of the Strategic Technologies Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and a Cyber Solarium 2.0 commission senior adviser, who discuss the cyber elements of the $1.7 trillion appropriations measure and the $858 billion National Defense Authorization Act, National Security Agency and US Cyber Command campaign plans to safeguard the 2022 election, cyber lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine, the need for great cyber security regulation, the cost of addressing software and hardware vulnerabilities in US military systems, Biden administration efforts to reduce ransomware attacks, and the biggest cyber threats of 2023 with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Steve Fetter, an award-winning nuclear physicist who is the dean of the Graduate School at the University of Maryland, discusses the national security implications of the National Ignition Facility’s Dec. 5 experiment at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory that for a millisecond produced more energy than it consumed, how the test that involved firing 192 lasers at hydrogen atoms was primarily intended to improve America’s thermonuclear arsenal, why the groundbreaking test would make for an impractical source of sustainable energy, whether the nation that invested the atom bomb still has the skills to make them, and lessons from the Manhattan Project with Defense & aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners with a year-end review of Russia’s war on Ukraine, how the conflict has changed Washington and its allies, old lessons relearned, technologies that have changed the battlefield, the impact of sanctions on Russia’s economy, how Moscow is benefitting from its partnerships with Iran, North Korea, China, India as well as other nations, developments in China, Japan and Iran, and a look at key business developments in 2022 including L3Harris’ proposal to acquire Aerojet Rocketdyne with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — A look at another volatile week on world markets and how defense and aerospace firms fared — Surge in spending in both Washington as well as Europe where governments are racing to place orders before the end of the year — Aviation outlook at travel returns to pre-pandemic levels as aircraft makers struggle to fill demand — Recap of major 2022 story lines  — Boeing’s challenges as commercial side of the giant delayed launching a new jetliner and new leadership works to restore confidence to the company’s Defense, Space and Security business — Whether the Pentagon is moving quickly enough to address capability gaps and weapons shortfalls — Robust space growth as Maxar acquired private equity firm Advent International for $6.4 billion — Merger and acquisition outlook nearly a year after the Biden administration blocked Lockheed Martin’s planned acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne — Demand for engineering talent across aerospace and defense — Recap of special purpose acquisition companies and the e-vtol market

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Analysis of the NDAA as Senate follows House in passing $858 billion measure that’s $45 billion higher than Biden administration’s request including increased spending for Navy, munitions and Ukraine as well as Taiwan assistance — Outlook for continuing resolution and omnibus — Update on Ukraine war as Russia steps up attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and prepares not only defenses in occupied areas but plots offensive early next year in second, more competent effort to take the entire country — Whether Western nations appreciate the magnitude and focused efforts by Russia to learn lessons and play the long game to finish what it started in 2014 — Update on Indo-Pacific headlines including North Korea’s latest missile test and the watershed nature of Japan’s new national security and defense strategies — Why Washington needs to more openly share technology with its closest allies and partners — President Biden’s summit with African nations and pledge to invest $55 billion in the content and whether jaded leaders are open to the latest effort by Washington to woo nations away from China and Russia

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Jerry McGinn and Eric Lofgren of the Baroni Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University discuss new ways to help innovative small companies survive DoD’s acquisition process to grow into sustainable enterprises, whether change is happening fast enough, the Pentagon’s new strategic capital initiative and NDAA items to watch; and Dr. Caitlin Lee, the director of the Center for Unmanned and Autonomy Studies at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies discusses the new report she co-authored with Mitchell’s Mark Gunzinger — “The Next Frontier: UAVs for Great Power Conflict, Part I: Penetrating Strike” — discusses takeaways from the report, the role of the unmanned modular collaborative combat aircraft the US Air Force is developing to improve its long-range strike, reconnaissance and electronic warfare capabilities, the network needed to target and strike with precision at range, the blend of new and old assets that can help realize this capability, and what’s next in the series with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, in one of his last interviews before retiring from Congress, Rep. Jim Langevin, D-RI, the chairman of the House Armed Services subcommittee on intelligence, emerging threats and capabilities as well as the Homeland Security subcommittee on cybersecurity, infrastructure protection and innovation, discusses progress in improving the nation’s cyber defenses and what more needs to be done, lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine that can help deter China from moving on Taiwan, the cost of addressing software and hardware vulnerabilities across US weapons systems, emerging threats, ways to more quickly acquire innovative technologies at scale, the need to improve America’s nuclear weapons production capabilities, and how to get things done despite increasing partisanship in Washington, and what’s next after more than two decades in Congress with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Angela Stent, professor of government and foreign service at Georgetown University and director of its Center for Eurasian, Russian, and East European Studies — who also authored the 2019 book “Putin's World: Russia Against the West and with the Rest” — discusses Russia’s imperial history and nature shapes the country’s outlook and decision-making by leaders like Vladimir Putin, why Putin decided to invade Ukraine when he did, how the Russian leader might be forced from power and his likely successor, the effectiveness of Western sanctions when China as well as India and nations across Africa and Asia continue to trade with Russia, lessons from the Russo-Ukrainian war that can help better deter China from moving against Taiwan, how to the war might end, and what a long-term strategy toward Russia looks like with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses discusses the latest in Russia’s war on Ukraine and Kyiv’s momentum including long-range attacks on Russian airfields, Wagner Group’s upcoming hackathon, move by Alma-Antey to copy Chinese racing drones for military use, and update on Turkish role in improving Azerbaijan’s military and speculation regarding another offensive against Armenia while Moscow and Tehran are distracted; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses House NDAA, prospects in Senate, implications of delayed appropriations and live on prolonged continuing resolutions, rising contractor costs, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Aerospace and defense stock performance in America and Europe as Wall Street closes down on higher than expected producer price index — Investor reaction to House version of the National Defense Authorization Act that increases Biden administration Pentagon spending request by $45 billion, but appropriations and debt ceiling outlook remain dim — Airbus dials back delivery targets for second time in a year on supplier challenges — Analysis of reports that Air India owner Tata Group plans massive investment in the air carrier including 500 narrow- and wide-body jets from Boeing and Airbus — Japan formally joins the British-led Tempest program to develop a next general combat aircraft that includes Italy and Sweden, now referred to as the Global Combat Air Program — US Army’s selection of Bell’s V-280 Valor tiltrotor over the Defiant X by Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky and Boeing for the service’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft competition — NASA’s flawless unmanned Artemis moon mission as Orion command module safely splashes down on time and target in the Eastern Pacific — Ingenuity unmanned aircraft makes 35th flight in Mars’ thin atmosphere, at nearly a minute and 46 feet altitude making it the longest and highest to date

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — House passes National Defense Authorization Act that’s $45 billion higher than Biden administration request as all eyes on whether Senate will follow — Long-term impact on military discipline of reversing DoD’s covid vaccination requirements that drove hundreds from uniform — Omnibus appropriations and debt ceiling talks stall raising fears of prolonged continuing resolution, and late 2023 borrowing limit battle — Senate power dynamic as Sen. Kirsten Sienama changes affiliation from Democrat to Independent — Turkey makes further demands in exchange for blessing Finland and Sweden’s NATO membership — Analysis of Biden administration’s decision to trade WNBA and Olympic star Brittney Griner for convicted arms merchant Viktor Bout — As America and France bolster their alliance, implications of Poland’s demands Germany pay $1.3 trillion in World War II reparations — Beijing backtracks on strict covid lockdowns in the wake of unprecedented nationwide demonstrations — China strikes strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia as Riyadh embraces Huawei technology despite US pressure to shut Chinese 5G gear — Update on AUSMIN and AUKUS, and whether Japan might join pact that includes US, UK and Australia — Japan’s decision to join British-led effort to develop Tempest next generation fighter that includes Italy and Sweden — Outlook for Iranian regime after violent demonstrations and suggestion morality police would be abolished — Binyamin Netanyahu shifts further right as be prepares his new Israeli government

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. James Chow. The director of the Rand Corporation’s Project Air Force, discusses last week’s West Coast Aerospace Forum — a collaborative effort among Rand, the Aerospace Corporation, MITRE, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies — lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine, deterring China from miscalculating in the Pacific, prioritizing long-range strike as well as command and control and industrial base investment, whether the B-21 Raider medium bomber by Northrop Grumman is the right plane for the Pacific theater, and the dire state of America’s nuclear weapons enterprise with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall discusses the new B-21 Raider bomber by Northrop Grumman and efforts to improve force-wide cyber security with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian from the Reagan National Defense Forum.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. “Rocket” Ron Epstein of Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Richard Aboulafia of the AeroDynamic Advisory consultancy discuss the US Army’s decision to tap Bell’s V-280 Valor tiltrotor as the winner of its Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft competition; and Pentagon comptroller Mike McCord discusses the outlook for defense spending, the prospect of a year-long continuing resolution, the likelihood of another Budget Control Act as part of a deal to raise the nation’s debt ceiling, internal DoD lessons learned during the course of US support for Ukraine, replenishing depleted American weapon stocks, views on how to reform the Planning, Programming, Budget & Execution process, and improving Pentagon auditability with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the Reagan National Defense Forum, the Pentagon’s new strategic capital initiative, Leidos’ investor day at the company’s Dynetics unit in Huntsville, Ala., and the B-21 Raider bomber rollout last week; and an analysis of the Reagan Forum with former Pentagon comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim, Michael Herson of American Defense International, and Dr. Kathleen McInnis who leads the Smart Women, Smart Power Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — US and European aerospace and defense stock performance as American job growth remains strong and gas prices and inflation decrease — Market expectations that Federal Reserve will ease off on raising short-term borrowing rates to curb inflation as central bankers seek to avoid fueling recession — Job cuts at big tech firms and whether defense could benefit from flood flood of available talent — Prime constructors worry recession will hurt valuations and access to capital for themselves as well as their second- and third-tier suppliers — Airbus production falls short as the European giant cuts its dependence on Russian titanium — Reports of further delays for Boeing-Saab T-7 trainerfor the US Air Force — Prospect Japan will join UK-led Tempest program that includes Italy and Sweden — Implications of Stockholm acquiring F-35 fighters as Sweden prepares to a NATO alliance where the stealth jet is increasingly a common aircraft — Outlook for Saab’s Gripen E fighter and company’s vaunted combat aircraft capability — Analysis of Northrop Grumman’s new B-21 Raider bomber unveiled at Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale and whether the new jet constrained by unit cost caps lacks speed, payload and range to be effective in the Indo-Pacific

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Congress moves on appropriations, omnibus, NDAA while also grappling with legislation in same sex marriage and to avoid economically damaging rail strike — Hopes dim that debt ceiling increase will happen during lame duck session, setting the stage for acrimonious budget battle — Democrats unite behind New York Rep. Hakeem Jeffries as new leader as California Republican Rep. Kevin McCarthy faces challenges — Whether US and Europe are pressuring Ukraine to negotiate an end to war as Washington and allies continue military and economic support — The need to provide Ukraine with even more hardware during the winter to improve its capabilities in 2023 — Importance of President Biden’s first state visit hosting French President Emmanuel Macron as the two oldest allies nations work together on global security challenges from Ukraine to European security and China — As US and Australian officials prepare to meet next week, assessing options for advancing drive by the Australia-US-UK pact to produce nuclear submarines for the Royal Australian Navy and whether Japan and France have a role to play — Implications of unprecedented nationwide demonstrations across China protesting the government’s covid lockdowns and increasingly repressive nature — Pentagon’s annual assessment of Chinese military capabilities — Binyamin Netanyahu continues to shape his incoming government — What’s next as demonstrations continue to roil Iran

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Ming-Yen Tsai, Taiwan’s deputy minister of foreign affairs, discusses lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine that can better prepare the island nation against a conflict with China, what Taipei needs to improve capabilities, Taiwanese confidence in President Biden’s pledge to defend the Taiwan should China attack, and Dr. Wes Naylor, the former commander of the Naval Air Warfare Center Training and Simulation Division, and our producer Chris Servello discuss key takeaways from the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference in Orlando with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security,  Andrea Schaumann, Fortress’ director of federal programs and partnerships, on cyber takeaways from the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference and the need to better educate the non-cyber community about the need for software and hardware bills of origin and materials as well as lessons from commercial industry, and Justin Sherman, the founder of Global Cyber Strategies who is also with the Atlantic Council’s Cyber Statecraft Initiative, discusses his recent issue brief — “GRU 26165: The Russian cyber unit that hacks targets on-site” — why the Russian military intelligence agency’s secret cyber arm hits the road globally, how to counter their operations, lessons from the recent ransomware attack on Suffolk County, NY, and the FCC’s latest ban on Chinese hardware with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and the Center for a New American Security discusses Vladimir Putin’s new drive to advance Russian artificial intelligence capabilities for military and economic advantage, the latest on Moscow’s war on Ukraine including precision strikes that have crippled the the country’s infrastructure, the state of Russia’s long-range strike arsenal including cruise missiles and unmanned systems, and the stability of the Putin regime as concerns about the war and its economic impact hits average Russians; and Dr. Darrell Bricker, the chief executive of Ipsos Public Affairs, discusses the latest global survey of security trends and sentiments released at the recent Halifax International Security Forum with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Joe Kochan, the executive director of the National Spectrum Consortium, and Dr. Christine Zhang, the chief research scientist at Peraton Labs, consortium board member and the chair of the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers’ annual MILCOM conference, discuss the role of consortium, the importance of 5G and 6G technologies in future military networks like the Joint All Domain Command and Control System, what to expect at the upcoming MILCOM conference and more; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the implications of anti-government demonstrations in China, update on Pentagon budget in a lame duck Congress, the outlook for continued US defense assistance to Ukraine, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — A recap of aerospace and defense stock performance on a short Wall Street training week as well as world markets — Reuters report that Airbus might miss delivery targets on slowed jet engine production — US and European efforts to ramp up precision weapons and munitions production — Outlook for air travel as US Thanksgiving traffic hits prepandemic levels — Global implications of anti-covid lockdown riots hit Foxconn’s massive Zhengzhou facility and demonstrations erupt across China — Japan’s interest in joining the UK-loved Tempest future combat aircraft programs that includes Italy and Sweden — Poland’s order for two signals intelligence ships from Sweden’s Saab under $700 million contract — Brazil’s $2 billion order for tank destroyer vehicles from Leonardo and IVECO — Britain’s decision to export six ex-UK military Sea King helicopters to Ukraine and whether the move opens the door for transfer of higher-end combat aircraft and systems like Patriot air defense missile batteries to Kyiv — Bulgaria’s F-16 fighter order as Lockheed Martin completes relocation of Fighting Falcon production line from Fort Worth to Greenville, SC

On this special episode from the Halifax International Security Forum, Olga Stefanishnya, Ukraine’s deputy prime minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration, discusses what her country needs to prevail against Russian aggression; Latvia’s National Security Adviser Jānis Kažociņš on how to think about the threat from Russia and the reality that whoever succeeds Vladimir Putin may well be worse and more dangerous; Supreme Commander of Sweden’s Armed Forces Gen. Micael Bydén on preparing his country for NATO membership; and Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian discusses the brutality of Iran’s regime as it cracks down on antigovernment demonstrations with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Andrea Schaumann, Fortress’ director of federal programs and partnerships, discusses cyber issues that will be aired at the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference or I/ITSEC in Orlando, the impact of the Biden administration’s software and hardware bills of origin and materials requirements, securing increasingly larger live and virtual synthetic training environments, incorporating ever more sophisticated commercial virtual reality technologies into military training ecosystems, the Pentagon’s new zero trust strategy and roadmap.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Evelyn Farkas, the executive director of The McCain Institute at Arizona State University, and former Pentagon comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, discuss key takeaways from this year’s Halifax International Security Forum including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s powerful address on the importance of helping Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression, bipartisan unity among US lawmakers supporting Kyiv, NATO Military Chairman Adm. Rob Bauer’s call to bolster the alliance’s depleting armament stocks and more; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners on how defense will fare during the lame duck session, the outlook for progress GOP House promises investigations into America’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, Hunter Biden’s laptop and US aid to Ukraine with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — A roundup of aerospace and defense stock performance in the wake of a bull rum as inflation and recession fears linger — Implications of acting FAA Administrator Bill Nolan’s statement that Boeing’s Max 7 jetliner won’t be certified by Dec. 27 deadline set by Congress, and whether lawmakers will extend certification period — Impact of Max 7 delay on Max 10 certification as well as sales of the Max line — Declining deliveries of jetliners as well as combat aircraft like the F-35 Lightning II fighters — Look BAE Systems newsflow and takeaways from MTU and Rheinmetall capital markets days — Drive to replenish depleted NATO and US ammunition stocks as alliance continues to support Ukraine, and Biden administration’s new $36 billion aid request for Kyiv — Outlook for French-German-Spanish SCAF program as Paris and Berlin relations on the program improve — NASA’s successful Artemis month-long mission to moon

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Michael Herson of American Defense International, Dr. Kathleen McInnis, the director of the Smart Women, Smart Power Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and Michael Auslin, the Payson J. Treat Distinguished Research Fellow in Contemporary Asia at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University.  Topics: — Update on congressional races as Republicans retake House and Democrats hold Senate — Republican and Democratic Leadership elections and prospects for Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., as minority leader and Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., as next House speaker — Implications of decisions by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority Leader Stenny Hoyer to stand aside, clearing the way for a new generation of leaders including Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-NY — Pelosi’s legacy as 52nd House Speaker — Latest on National Defense Authorization Act and appropriations — Agenda items for lame duck session, including debt ceiling increase — NATO response to missiles that killed two in Poland — Support for Ukraine as governments step up military aid — Why a new model for transatlantic security is needed to bolster capabilities — G20 meeting takeaways including statement denouncing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — President Biden’s meeting with China’s Xi Jinping and whether it changes the dynamic between the world’s leading powers — The case for expanding AUKUS to include Japan and France — A look ahead to the Halifax International Security Forum

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Jerry McGinn, the executive director of the Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University who served in the Pentagon’s office of manufacturing and industrial base policy and his colleague, Eric Lofgren, a research fellow specializing in government contracting, discuss their new report, with Lloyd Everhart — “Execution Flexibility and Bridging the Valley of Death” — on how innovative smaller companies with good ideas can survive the Pentagon acquisition process to grow into sustainable enterprises, grading DoD’s innovation initiatives aimed at more quickly harnessing technology to solve national security problems, how reforming the Planning, Programming, Budgeting & Execution could have a dramatic impact on both improving and accelerating the entire acquisition ecosystem, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Jeff Man, who was one of the first group of “Red Team” hackers at the National Security Agency’s “Pit” to improve US government security and is now a senior security consultant at IT services company Online Business Systems and the co-host of the Paul’s Security Weekly podcast along with Paul Asadoorian, discusses lessons from his nearly 40-year career including what constitutes a hacker, how threats and defenses have changed over his career, the balance of power between attacks and defenders, training a new generation of talent, the right partnership between government and industry, the efficacy of a certification approach to security, the threat posed by social media sites like TikTok and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Chris Miller,  professor of international history at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, discusses his recent book “Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology,” why chips are so critical to global economic and military power, the global nature of the microchip industry, how America lost its technological lead, China’s strategy to gain chip supremacy, whether the CHIPS Act will return America to its leading position and how Washington should marshal its allies, the impact of the Biden administration’s embargo on ship making technology will delay Beijing’s chip capabilities, how America should balance cooperation and competition with China, the threat from Chinese chips and software in US weapons systems, the feasibility of driving a wedge between China and Russia as the two nations pledge “limitless” partnership, and examples of good and bad strategy with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and the Center for a New American Security discusses what’s next now that Ukraine has liberated Kherson from Russian occupation, Moscow’s drive to circumvent the normal acquisition system to rush new equipment to the frontlines, and impact of mounting criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Dr. Michael Shurkin of the Atlantic Council and Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, discusses France’s new defense strategy, priorities, building new capabilities and how Washington has to regard its oldest ally, and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses how the meeting between President Biden and China’s Xi Jinping changes the vector for US defense spending, the impact of the midterm on the Pentagon’s budget outlook, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Defense and aerospace stock performance as Wall Street has it’s best day in two years driven by lower than expected US Consumer Price Index raising hopes that Federal Reserve will forego additional planned short-term borrowing rate increases to reduce inflation — Investor views of US midterm election outcome consistent with expectations that Democrats control Senate and Republicans narrowly retake House — What to expect from President Biden’s meeting with China’s Xi Jinping on Monday at G20 meeting in Bali — France’s updated defense strategy that notes the centrality of NATO and need for greater investment in capabilities — Key takeaways from Zhuhai Air Show including analysis Comac’s announcement of 330 new orders for C919 jets and ARJ21 regional aircraft and latest partnership between Boeing and the Chinese jetmaker to develop sustainable aviation technologies — Whether China can advance its commercial aviation industry without Western support as great decoupling with Beijing continues — Update on war as Ukraine liberates Kherson from brutal Russian occupation — Bulgaria’s decision to buy eight new Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 jets from and Indonesia’s interest in 36 new Boeing F-15 fighters — South Korea’s growing role in rearming Europe and Ukraine

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, EJ Herold, the executive director of the International Institute for Strategic Studies-Americas and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — The implications of the surprise mid-term outcome that is characterized as the best for a sitting president since the 1930s — Political dynamics is Democrats retain Senate but Republicans narrowly control the House — The “governability” of a fractious House Republican majority, should GOP retake the chamber — New defense leadership in House and Senate and their priorities and how change in power could impact US policy toward Ukraine, China and Europe — Whether former President Trump — and Trumpism’s — hold on Republicans Party has been broken as long-time allies turn on him for failing to win more seats — Message America’s allies and adversaries are drawing from the mid-terms — What’s next now that Russia has evacuated Kherson as Ukrainian forces retake the key southern city — White House pledges unwavering support for Ukraine as it urges Kyiv to remain open to negotiations to end the conflict — President Biden’s meeting with China’s Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Bali — Key US meetings in Cambodia, Malaysia and Indonesia — Waiting for North Korea’s nuclear test — Update on Binyamin Netayahu efforts to form the most right-wing government in Israel’s history — Ongoing anti-government demonstrations in Iran

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Caitlin Dohrman, the president of Improbable US Defense & National Security, discusses the company’s unique synthetic environment capabilities, the role of cutting-edge commercial capabilities for defense applications for better wargaming, scenario development as well as immersive synthetic training environments, the future of the technology and how small companies can grow into tomorrow’s giants with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Suzanne Spaulding, the senior adviser for homeland security and director of the Defending Democratic Institutions project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, discusses efforts to secure US elections including Tuesday’s midterms, the interagency process to safeguard America’s voting infrastructure, countering domestic and foreign disinformation, how to ensure fair elections in the wake of the election of secretaries of state who have said they may change outcomes irrespective of legitimate vote counts, what changed House and Senate leadership will mean for cyber legislation, and priorities for the Cyber Solarium 2.0 commission with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

In the second of a six-part series on command and control, sponsored Ultra Intelligence & Communications, Bryan Clark, the director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology, Chris Dougherty of the Center for a New American Security, and Heather Penney of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, discuss the Pentagon’s new Joint All-Domain Command and Control strategy, whether the new approach will field capability at the speed of relevance, an update on each of the service’s command and control efforts — the Air Force’s Advanced Battle Management System, the Army’s Project Convergence, and the Navy’s Project Overmatch — and how to best integrate these efforts, and move faster with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and the Center for a New American Security discusses Russia’s strikes against Ukraine’s power, water and heating networks, how Ukrainian forces are defending against Russia’s Iranian-made drones, Ukraine’s forces’ advance on Kherson, impact of Russian mobilization and fresh forces on the Kherson front, Washington’s suggestion that Kyiv be open to negotiations, and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the impact of inflation on defense contractors, defense implications of Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun’s statement last week that the company won’t develop a new jetliner until the mid-2030s, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Defense and aerospace stock performance on US and European markets and reaction to move by Federal Reserve to raise short-term borrowing rates by 75 basis points  — Analysis of Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun’s comments during the company’s investor day in Seattle that the jet maker won’t develop an new aircraft until the mid-2030s, citing changing nature of engine technology — Takeaways from touring Boeing’s 737 plant in Renton, Wash., and what it says about state of supply chain and inventory management — Beijing’s messaging as German Chancellor Olaf Scholtz leads large trade delegation to China as orders placed for Airbus jets and China Southern takes 737 Max out of service, after recently returning it to service — What to expect from this year’s Zhuhai Airshow — Investor reaction to pointed comments by Adm. Chas Richard, the commander of US Strategic Command, at the Naval Submarine League’s annual conference that America has to boost its capabilities to continue deterring an every more capable China — Australia’s decision to order the C-130J, ensuring robust production of Hercules  — Sweden’s complaints about NH90 helicopter and what it means for Airbus’ performance on that and the Tiger attack helicopter programs — A service-by-service look at UK defense as government-wide spending cuts are imposed that make 3 percent of GDP for military spending an “aspiration” until later this decade — Latest trends in Ukraine’s drive to retake territory occupied by Russia as Moscow pounds Ukrainian power, water and heating grids — European support for Ukraine as White House urges Kyiv to be open to negotiations with Russia — Spending outlook in the wake of US midterm elections that are expected to return the House and Senate to Republican control

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Update on NDAA and prospects for another brief continuing resolution as appropriations stall — Midterm elections outcome as Republicans return to power in House and Senate loom, sparking worries among allies in Europe and Asia — Contours of a debt ceiling discussion within Biden administration and with lawmakers — Outlook on Russia’s war on Ukraine as Moscow targets power and water grids to force Ukrainians to pressure their leaders for a peace deal and spur Western commentators to urge Kyiv toward a negotiated settlement — NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg calls on Turkey to approve Finland and Sweden’s membership in the alliance as Ankara demands all manner of concessions from Europe and America in exchange for its “yes” vote — UK defense update as Defence Secretary Ben Wallace concedes government-wide spending cuts directed by his boss, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, make 3 percent of GDP investment goal “aspirational” — Unprecedented barrage of North Korean cruise and ballistic missile tests toward South Korea and Japan, violating Seoul’s territorial waters for the first time since 1952 — The outlook for South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol’s tenure after 156 were crushed to death in a Seoul ally while celebrating Halloween — The aggressive global diplomatic stance of China’s premier, Xi Jinping, in the wake of the Chinese Communist Party’s congress last week — The global implications of Bibi Netanyahu’s return to power on Israel’s relationships with the United States, Europe, Russia and Gulf partners

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, John Kirby, a retired US Navy rear admiral and former Pentagon, State Department, and Navy chief spokesman who is now the coordinator for strategic communications at the National Security Council, discusses the changing communications landscape and the increasing need to respond rapidly to emerging news and narratives, the critical importance of story telling when crafting strategic messaging campaigns, why leaders must prioritize communications, how to counter lies and disinformation, reaching audiences in their information silos, bridging the civil-military divide, why a close relationship between a senior leader and their communicator can generate better policy and strategy outcomes, balancing the need for message discipline agains the need to empower subordinates to communicate with agility and speed, and what good messaging strategy looks like with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Adm. Mike Rogers, USN Ret., the former director of the National Security Agency and commander of the US Cyber Command who is now the chairman of the advisory board of cybersecurity firm Claroty, discusses the cyber and intelligence aspects of the National Security Strategy and the National Defense Strategy, the importance of both deterring China and Russia while working to improve cybersecurity cooperation with Beijing and Moscow as well as nations worldwide, why Russia has not mounted more aggressive cyber operations against America and its allies supporting Kyiv, the role of cyber in deterring Moscow from using tactical nuclear weapons against Ukraine, cyber and broader takeaways from the Chinese Communist Party’s recent congress, the impact of the Biden administration’s efforts to curb the export of computer chip making technology to China in curbing Beijing’s cyber and AI capabilities, US efforts to ensure the security of America’s voting system and countering dis and misinformation as the mid-term elections loom, and whether the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency should be independent with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Eric Fanning, the president and CEO of the Aerospace Industries Association, discusses the annual workforce study the trade body the organization develops with the American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics and the Ernst & Young consultancy — “How do you reshape today’s workforce and attract tomorrow’s talent?” — the impact of the CHIPS Act on developing future talent, the impact of inflation and supply chains on defense and aerospace manufacturing, the defense budget outlook as mid-term elections loom, the importance of congressional action on research and development tax credits that spur innovation, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses who is also affiliated with the Center for a New American Security discuses Ukraine’s coordinated attack against Russia’s Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol using unmanned air and surface vehicles; Dr. Bill Conley, the chief technology officer at Mercury Systems who is also the chairman of the Association of Old Crows, discusses on takeaways from AOC’s 59th annual conference and tradeshow last week, lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine, and moving faster to deliver electromagnetic, cyber and information capabilities; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses recent corporate earnings and emerging trends, the defense spending implications of next week’s national elections, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Wall Street rallies on as positive earnings and encouraging American economic growth — Airbus, Boeing, General Dynamics, L3Harris, MTU, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, Saab and Thales earnings — Whether pressure will mount on industry over share buybacks as political pressure mounts regarding the practice as President Biden criticizes ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods — Trade outlook as hardliners take power in Beijing and German Chancellor Olaf Scholtz prepares to lead trade delegation to China — Boeing’s prospects in China as 737 Max quietly re-enters service — UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak retains Ben Wallace as defense secretary, but orders government-wide cuts including to military spending — Market impact of Biden administration’s new National Defense Strategy as well as nuclear posture and missile defense reviews — War update as Ukraine strikes Russian Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Update on National Defense Authorization Act and debt ceiling increase during the “lame duck” session after the election next week and the new Congress in January — Support for Ukraine on Capitol Hill as 30 progressives propose then rescind letter calling for talks with Russia — Gauging whether Republicans retake both House and Senate or just the House — How Washington and NATO counter Moscow should Russian officials make good on their threats to target US commercial spacecraft supporting Ukraine — Why Vladimir Putin appears to be easing off his nuclear rhetoric and whether he will be removed from power over the coming months — Takeaways from Chinese Communist Party’s congress as Xi Jinping and a phalanx of hardliners take power, humiliating moderates including former premier Hu Jintao by physically removing him from the Great Hall during the closing ceremony, but also from the Standing Committee and Politburo — Implications of US Air Force’s proposal to retire it’s last two active duty F-15C fighter squadrons from Kadena Air Base on Okinawa and replace it with a rotational force — Demonstrations grow more violent in Iran as analysts debate longevity of the Islamic Republic — Analysis of the Biden administration’s new National Defense Strategy as well as nuclear posture and missile defense reviews — Remembering the life and extraordinary legacy of the nation’s 25th defense secretary, Dr. Ash Carter, who passed away of a heart attack at age 68

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Randy Schriver, a former assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs who is now the chairman of the Project 2049 Institute to fully normalize relations between the United States and Taiwan, discusses think tank’s new China Economic Strategy Initiative that aims to help US leaders craft better strategies to compete against China — and do it more quickly — assessing the Biden administration’s toughening approach to Beijing, the competitive strategy Washington needs, takeaways from the Chinese Communist Party’s recent congress, the capabilities America and Taiwan need to field to deter Chinese aggression, lessons Beijing and Taipei are drawing from Russia’s war on Ukraine and the global response to Moscow’s aggression, update on the Taiwan Policy Act and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Nick Nilan’s, Fortress’ new chief revenue officer, discusses the implications of the Biden administration’s drive to shift from attestation to certifiable software bills of origin and materials to improve supply chain security, what it will take to improve security across government and industry, and how cyber threats continue to evolve; and Bulelani Jili, a Yenching scholar, cybersecurity fellow and PhD candidate at Harvard University who is also affiliated with the Atlantic Council’s Cyber Statecraft Initiative, discusses his issue paper — “China’s Surveillance Ecosystem and the Global Spread of its Tools” — China’s increasingly capable domestic cyber and surveillance industry, why governments turn to Beijing and how China benefits from exporting surveillance tools, how to the international community can stymie Chinese as well as Israeli and Russian surveillance exports, and whether the Biden administration’s export ban on chip making technology can stymie Beijing’s cyber surveillance ecosystem with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Harlan Ullman, an Atlantic Council senior advisor, strategist and author who is the chairman of the Killowen Group consultancy, discusses the Biden administration’s National Security Strategy and why it and the upcoming National Defense Strategy are both aspirational and unaffordable in his column “A National Security Strategy that is Viable and Affordable,” and the life and legacy of former Defense Secretary Ash Carter who died suddenly on Oct. 24 at age 68; and Paul Scharre, the vice president and director of studies at the Center for a New American Security, discusses the new report he co-authored with his colleague Megan Lambert, “Artificial Intelligence and Arms Control,” why it may prove important to control AI, past arms control models that could prove effective, enforcement and how the Biden administration’s export bans on chip making equipment to China are a means of AI arms control against Beijing with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Todd Harrison, the managing director for Metrea Strategic Insights, discusses his analysis of the Biden administration’s defense budget plans including growing personnel costs even before a planned 4.6 percent pay raise, what happens if the pay raise jumps to 6 percent because of inflation, a possible shortfall in operations and maintenance funding, budget share by military service and why Air Force funding is falling short, and whether the administration has launched a series of major top secret programs or has created a “bishop’s” fund to cover future costs; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners on the administration’s export ban on chip making technology to China, whether additional countries will adopt Washington’s stance, curtailing Western hardware and software exports that improve Beijing’s military capabilities, lessons from Britain’s ruinous financial missteps and whether the GOP could follow suit in the wake of November electoral victory, Russia and Iran newsflow, and look at Lockheed Martin’s earnings and share buybacks and what to expect from the defense group as companies report earnings, and the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Aerospace and defense stock performance as Wall Street posts its strongest day since June on growing sense coming recession is likely to be mild than severe as earnings continue to worry and Fed prepares to again raise rates — What Lockheed Martin’s earnings and L3Harris’ decision to buy back shares suggests about what to expect from other defense and aerospace companies as they prepare to report earnings over the coming weeks — Air travel demand grows reducing parked aircraft and increasing demand for new jets — Takeaways from the National Business Aviation Association’s Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition in Orlando — Federal appears judge’s decision allow families of the 346 who died in two 737 Max crashes to challenge $2.5 billion settlement between Boeing and the Justice Department — Update on Moscow’s war on Ukraine as Russia pummels its neighbors infrastructure to impede Kyiv’s ability to fight — Outlook for European defense spending and continent’s ability to satisfy its own capability needs as Poland turns to Korea for heavy self-propelled artillery — Europe’s concern of possible Russian use of nuclear weapons as Vladimir Putin continues to intimidate Washington and its allies to end support for Kyiv — Battle to replace Liz Truss as Britain’s shortest-serving prime minister resigns

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute and Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security.  Topics: — European sentiment on Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine as Kyiv plans major offensive to retake Kherson and Moscow uses Iranian drones to hit Ukrainian power, water and rail — Outlook for defense spending in US, Europe and Asia as concerns mount of an impending worldwide recession — Impact of statements by House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., that Ukraine as well as Pentagon spending would be curtailed should Republicans retake Congress in November elections — How US and Europe must respond to Russian grey zone and intimidation operations in cyber, destroying Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, cutting undersea cables connecting Shetland Islands to Britain, impacting German rail, a Russian sub transiting the Bay of Biscay or firing missile near RAF reconnaissance plane over Black Sea — Lessons China is learning as Washington and allies fail to respond to Russian provocations — Takeaways from Chinese Communist Party’s quinquennial meeting in Beijing — China’s new approach to Taiwan that would subjugate the island nation — Deterring China from invading Taiwan whether through new legislation like Taiwan Policy Act, modernizing Taipei’s forces, economic pressure, or event posting US troops on the island — North Korea’s upcoming nuclear test — Impact of Russia’s reduction of forces in Syria on Israel’s campaign against ISIS as Iran steps up attacks on Kurdish Iraq — Iran’s crackdown on worsening demonstrations and outlook for overthrowing the clerical rule

Dr. Philip Karber, the president of the Potomac Foundation think tank, discusses the difference between good and bad strategy, the importance of crafting long-term competitive strategies, lessons from Russia’s war on Ukraine, how those lessons apply to China, the need for renewed focus and attention on nuclear warfighting and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian. This conversation is sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and devoted to the memory of one of the nation’s greatest national security strategists, Andy Marshall, the former director of the Pentagon’s Office of Net Assessment. The strategy series is not affiliated with the Andrew W. Marshall Foundation.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Philip Niedermair, a managing director at the Ward & Berry law firm who is also chairman of the board of advisers at the National Cyber Group and a senior advisor to the Cyberspace Solarium Commission 2.0, discusses commission priorities, changing the prevalent mindset that cyber security is a costly burden rather than a critically important economic and security enabler, attracting more diverse talent to the cyber workforce, cyber takeaways from recent national security and law enforcement gatherings and remembering the legacy of Dr. Scott Dade, the director of the schools of cyber security, cryptology, business and foreign languages at Fort Gordon, with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, Britain’s secretary of state for transportation, discusses the UK government’s new maritime strategy and the vital links between maritime trade and seapower, and Mark Goldsack, a retired British Army brigadier who now serves as the director of the Department for International Trade’s Defence and Security Exports, discusses Britain’s security assistance to Ukraine including systems and training, global demand for UK defense products and services, and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Faine Greenwood of Tarentum Consulting and contributor to Slate and Foreign Policy who is an expert on commercial drones discusses how commercially available systems are being used on the battlefield by both Ukraine and Russia, how they are being used, future capabilities and how governments can better defend themselves against weaponized commercial systems; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses takeaways from the Association of the United States Army’s annual meeting and tradeshow last week, implications of US concerns with China’s civil-military fusion strategy, November elections and how they may shape the defense budget outlook, a look ahead to earnings and the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Rising inflation prompts worries of further Fed rate hikes drives Wall Street down 1.6 percent for the week and S&P 500 down a quarter since beginning of year — Erroneous perception by some investors that Ukraine’s success and recent statement by Russian President Vladimir Putin suggest war is ending and demand for defense goods will decline — Outlook for Prime Minister Liz Truss as her government makes a u-turn on pledge to cut taxes and increase spending in wake of political and market pressure — Defense spending implications of new Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s pledge to raise taxes and sharply cut spending to restore UK fiscal credibility — Market implications of the Biden administration’s long-awaited National Security Strategy — Defense industry impact should Congress block arms exports to Saudi Arabia and outlook for UK, France and other nations to garner sales — Sully Sullenberger adds his voice to those opposing certification waivers for 737 Max — United Airlines interest in new widebody jetliners — Takeaways from the Association of the United States Army’s annual conference and tradeshow last week in Washington — What to expect at the National Business Aviation Association’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition in Orlando next week

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute and Dr. Kathleen McInnis, the director of the Smart Women, Smart Power Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Topics: — Russian decision to evacuate Kherson as Ukrainian forces continue their drive to liberate occupied territories as Moscow strikes Ukraine’s cities, infrastructure and military units with missiles and Iranian drones — NATO defense ministers meet in Brussels to craft 14-nation Sky Shield program to protect Europe from air and missile threats as alliance steps up air and missile defenses for Ukraine — Nuclear tensions as NATO declines to discuss options as France declares it would not retaliate if Russia strikes Ukraine with atomic weapons — Need for US and allied leaders in Europe and Asia to renew nuclear planning and training as China, Russia, North Korea and Iran resort to nuclear saber rattling and intimidation — As the Chinese Communist Party convenes on Sunday to make Xi Jinping leader for life, Beijing tries to use AUKUS agreement to fracture Australian politics and diminish role of “Anglo-Saxon” nations in Asia — North Korea’s continued missile tests — Taipei’s warning that China risks war by continuing to overly Taiwan with drones and missiles — Analysis of Biden administration’s National Security Strategy and what to expect from upcoming Nuclear Posture Reviews and National Defense Strategy — Role of women in demonstrations demanding regime change in Iran and whether the Islamic Republic will collapse as quickly as Shah’s — Whether latest Jan. 6 insurrection hearing revelations change political dynamics in November elections

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and director of the bipartisan Cyber Solarium 2.0 Commission, discusses the White House meeting next week to craft a national strategy to secure the Internet of Things, legislative changes and spending needed to improve IoT security, whether the Biden administration’s clampdown on exporting chip making technology to China is effective, Russia’s recent hacks and link between cyber capabilities and nuclear deterrence, key storylines from the Cipher Brief’s 2022 Threat Conference including impediments to greater government-industry collaboration and whether the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency should be independent, the cyber implications of the new National Security Strategy, and the cyber elements of the Senate’s version of the National Defense Authorization Act with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Gabe Camarillo, the 35th under secretary of the US Army, discusses lessons learned from Russia’s war on Ukraine, replenishing weapons stocks, capabilities the service is developing for future conflicts, the new Field Manual 3.0, the role of the US Army and Air Force in America’s long-range precision strike architecture, the service’s Pacific role and case against shrinking the force to cover air and naval capacity, and the persistent concern that defense spending could become a casualty of congressional debt ceiling negotiations with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, private equity veteran Philip Bilden and former DIU chief Raj Shah discuss the new venture capital fund they founded, Shield Capital, on the $120 million fund’s first anniversary, the firm’s investments in more than 70 companies, technology areas of focus, how the teams picks the right investment candidates, the fund’s partnership with L3Harris, the concept of “clean capital” and how the VC community can be harnessed for more quickly field critically needed capabilities with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and the Center for a New American Security discusses Russia’s war on Ukraine and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses the United States Army’s conference and tradeshow and a looks at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Update on US and European markets and impact on defense and aerospace shares as worries grow that central banks will further increase borrowing rates and impending recession — Implications of OPEC Plus decision to cut production to drive up oil prices — Boeing update that 737 Max jetliner unlikely to be ready for certification until next spring, after the congressionally mandated certification deadline at the end of December — American Airlines pilots union urges Congress not to exempt the Max 7 and 10 from certification requirements, while pilots from the world’s largest 737 operator, Southwest Airlines, does — Eviation’s successful test flight of company’s all-electric Alice passenger aircraft and implications for regional air travel — Truss government’s about face on plan to cut taxes while increasing government spending as Institute for Fiscal Studies suggests that 200,000 UK government jobs may have to be cut over coming years to meet budget targets — Update on Conservative Party conference and outlook for UK defense spending as recession fears loom — L3Harris’ acquisition of ViaSat’s Link 16 business and divesture of services unit to CAE — Ukraine’s efforts to reclaim territory from Russian occupation including strike on Kerch bridge that connects Russia to occupied Crimea

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Update on legislation that could impact national security that Congress will have to address during lame duck session after November elections, including debt ceiling increase — Congressional reaction to decision by OPEC Plus nations to cut oil production to accelerate energy price increases, including punishing Saudi Arabia in particular — How Washington should respond given Riyadh’s brazen attempt to undermine President Biden and Democratic electoral prospects in upcoming elections — Europe and Asia’s response to the OPEC Plus move and whether it ultimately undermines the long-term interests of the cartel — Update on Ukraine’s advances are Washington declines to export ATACMS long-range missiles to Kyiv as Russian forces suffer setbacks despite mobilization drive — Washington and allies continuing robust support for Ukraine despite Russian threats and nuclear saber rattling — The nuanced interpretation of Biden’s “armageddon” remarks — North Korea’s long-range ballistic missile tests and the combined US-South Korean response — What’s next from Pyongyang including nuclear test expected as soon as this weekend — Russia and China’s shielding of North Korea in the United Nations — Beijing’s rhetoric as Chinese Communist Party prepares to clear life term for Xi Jinping — Biden administration’s new clamp down on China’s access to chip-making technology — Growing demonstrations in Iran and their implications for the longevity of the Islamic regime and outlook for a revived nuclear deal — Shifting from stopping Tehran’s nuclear program to deterring a nuclear Iran

**Sponsored Content** On this special edition of the Defense & Aerospace Report, Raytheon Missiles and Defense’s Abel Ghanooni, the Senior Director leading Short Range Air Defense and Rapid Development Programs discusses the company’s sensors and weapon systems to detect, engage and defend against Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) with Special Productions Producer John Schofield. This conversation is part of our Association of the United States Army coverage and was sponsored Raytheon Missiles and Defense.

In the first of a six-part series on command and control, sponsored Ultra Intelligence & Communications, Dr. David Pustai, the company’s senior vice president and chief technology officer, discusses technological advances that will enable the realization of the Pentagon’s top priority Joint All-Domain Command and Control program, the role of cognitive sciences in future battle networks, how automation will change decision making, trust and increasingly automated systems, how military culture and training have to change to take fullest advantage of enabling technological advances, how to interconnect existing and future systems into a resilient battle network, the role of the cloud and improving security and resilience in contested communications environments with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Juliette Wilcox, Britain’s Cyber Security Ambassador with Department for International Trade, discusses emerging global cyber threats, improving security, the products and skills in demand on global markets, training a new generation of cyber talent, why it’s vital to draw experienced professionals from beyond technical fields to the cyber field, and determining what to export — and what not — with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin, the Asia-Pacific security chair at the Hudson Institute think tank, discusses North Korea’s ballistic missile test over Japan, what’s next as Pyongyang also prepares for a nuclear test, how Washington and its allies should respond, and countering the axis among China, Russia and North Korea; and Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery, USN Ret., a former director of operations at the US Indo-Pacific Command who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and the director of the bipartisan Cyber Solarium 2.0 Commission, discusses the threat posed by North Korea’s missiles, the importance of better US and allied air and missile defenses in the Indo-Pacific, and how to help the US Air Force execute its new mission to defense the United States against cruise missile threats with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and the Center for a New American Security discusses Russia’s war on Ukraine including Kyiv’s gains as Moscow annexed four occupied Ukraine provinces, criticism of Vladimir Putin’s handling of the war including from the president’s close allies, and how Russia is using Iranian drones; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners discusses implications of Russian use of nuclear weapons in the Ukraine conflict, Moscow’s attacks on the Nord Stream pipelines, seven questions he wants to answered at the Association of the United States Army’s conference and tradeshow next week, and a look at the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics: — Down week on Wall Street that included drop in defense and aerospace equities — Impact of Truss government’s announcement of tax cuts and higher government spending on the British pound and UK borrowing rates — Longevity of the Truss administration and outlook on UK defense spending — Beijing’s certification of Comac’s C919 regional jetliner as Boeing’s 737 Max faces certification challenges in America — Rostec’s claim it will buy 1,000 Russian jetliners by 2030 — What Taiwan’s China Airlines’ purchase of 787 jetliners means for the wide-body market — Transatlantic commitment to help Ukraine in its war against Russia and efforts to bolster depleting weapons stocks — What Russia’s sabotage of both Nordstream pipelines means as Moscow signals it can also target Western undersea infrastructure — Outlook for Boom’s drive to develop a new supersonic passenger aircraft in the wake of Rolls-Royce’s withdrawal from the program

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Congress on verge of passing continuing resolution as NDAA and appropriations remain stalled until Congress returns after November elections, and approval of additional Ukraine aid — Financial and economic impact of Hurricanes Fiona and Ian  — Improving political fortunes for Republicans as hopes rise that GOP will take both House and Senate — Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territory and West’s response as more aid as well as new command to arm Kyiv — Moscow’s sabotage of Baltic Sea pipelines and how NATO must respond to Russia’s grey zone warfare, and lessons China is learning in the episode — Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy’s request for fast track NATO membership and Biden administration’s new sanctions on Moscow — Joint Chinese and Russian naval operations off Alaska as Beijing practices amphibious landings in the South China Sea — Aftermath of false speculation that China’s leader Xi Jinping was overthrown in military coup as he raises his public profile in advance of 20th Party Congress  — Lessons for Beijing from Russia’s ongoing struggle  — The political prospects for British Prime Minister Liz Truss in the wake of the new economic plan to cut taxes while increasing government investment that undermined confidence in the British economy, drove down the pound and drove a jump in borrowing rates across Europe — The future of the Iranian regime as demonstrations nationwide mount in the wake of the killing of a young woman by the country’s religious police — Why it’s important to dissuade Benjamin Netanyahu from annexing parts of the West Bank in advance of the former Israeli prime minister’s expected return to power

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Tristan Crawford, the CEO of AERALIS, discusses the innovative British company’s approach to developing a family of modular manned and unmanned aircraft for strike, training, as well as intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions based on a common center fuselage that can except a range of power plants, wings, cockpits and mission modules to lower acquisition, sustainment an upgrade costs with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Justin Sherman of the Atlantic Council’s Cyber Statecraft Initiative who also is a Wired Magazine contributor, discusses the new report by the think tank that he co-authored — “Security in the Billions: Toward a Multinational Strategy to Better Secure the IoT Ecosystem” — to craft a systemic global approach to improve the cyber security as internet-connected and enabled devices proliferate with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian. Other co-authors include Patrick Mitchell and Liv Rowley, with Nima Agah, Gabrielle Young, and Tianjiu Zuo.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dave Deptula, a retired US Air Force lieutenant general who is now the dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace studies, discusses key takeaways from the Air and Space Forces Association’s annual Air Space Cyber conference and tradeshow, Raanan Horowitz, the president and CEO of Elbit Systems of America, discusses the strategic business environment, inflation, supply chains, the changing nature of competition as new firms enter the sector, as well as ways the industrial base can better help the Pentagon solve its big problems; Duane Hawkins, the president of the defense and space business at Spirit Aerosystems, discusses his strategy to grow the aerostructures giant’s defense and space business to diversify from its historic reliance on commercial aviation work with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Dr. Patrick Cronin, the Asia-Pacific Security chair at the Hudson Institute, discusses erroneous social media speculation over the weekend that Chinese leader Xi Jinping was deposed in a coup and what can be learned from the episode; Sam Bendett of the Center for Naval Analyses and the Center for a New American Security with an update on Russia’s war on Ukraine and whether Vladimir Putin’s manpower mobilization, annexation of Donbas and Luhansk and nuclear threats will change the conflict as well as countering Iranian drones now in Russian service; and Byron Callan of the independent Washington research firm Capital Alpha Partners with takeaways from last week’s Air Force Association conference, CSIS’ industrial base event, Wharton’s Palo Alto gathering, how the Russo-Ukrainian war may change defense demand and the week ahead with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the Business Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are “Rocket Ron” Epstein, PhD, of Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory and Sash Tusa of Agency Partners. Topics:  — US and European defense and aerospace equities as world markets react to rising interest and yield rates as signs of impending recession — Impact of rising dollar as pound and euro fall, and British government rolls out new budget that includes tax cuts — Takeaways from Airbus’ capital markets day as CEO Guillaume Faury discusses inflation, supply chains, jetliner production rates, market share versus Boeing, sustainable aviation, importance of defense and corporate governance — Move by Chinese air carrier Xiamen Airlines with an all-Boeing fleet to cancel order for 27 Boeing 737 Max jets in favor of 40 Airbus A320 aircraft — Securities and Exchange Commission fines Boeing $200 million and former CEO Dennis Muilenburg $1 million over statements in wake of two 737 Max crashes that killed 346 — Update on Russia’s war on Ukraine as Vladimir Putin mobilizes reserves and renews nuclear threats — Analysis of newsflow from the Air Force Association’s Air Space Cyber conference including the Next-Generation Air Dominance program, the Collaborative Combat Aircraft, the B-21 bomber, the new partnership between L3Harris and Embraer on the KC-390 program — Outlook for the Russo-Ukrainian war as Moscow mobilizes reserves as winter approaches — Truss government launches defense review as British military performs flawlessly during funeral ceremonies for late Queen Elizabeth

On this Washington Roundtable episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Podcast, sponsored by Bell, our guests are Dov Zakheim, PhD, former DoD comptroller, now with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute, Jim Townsend, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for Europe and NATO who is now with the Center for a New American Security and Michael Herson of American Defense International. Topics: — Update on National Defense Authorization Act and continuing resolution as lawmakers gear up for campaign season — Congressional support for additional Ukraine aid — Impact of former President Trump’s legal woes on support among Republican lawmakers and the party’s base — Vladimir Putin’s move to annex Donbas and Luhansk as well as renewed nuclear threat to deter further US and European support for Ukraine and half Kyiv’s efforts to regain its territory — Whether Putin’s gambit will prevent Western aid or Ukraine’s advance, or the call up of 300,000 reservists will change the course of the war given poor Russian leadership and morale — World leaders’ response to Putin at the United Nation’s annual General Assembly meeting — How Washington and its allies can deter Putin from using nuclear or unconventional weapons or respond should he do so — The failure to deter Russia from invading Ukraine, precipitating an expensive war, and how it should change the approach to deterring China from moving against Taiwan — President Biden’s latest unambiguous declaration that the United States will defend Taiwan if Beijing invades — Meeting between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to address mounting Taiwan and other tensions on sidelines of UN General Assembly gathering — UN report on North Korean nuclear weapons and strategic missiles — The message the port visit of the USS Ronald Reagan to Busan sends to Pyongyang and Beijing — The outlook for the Iranian regime in the wake of mass demonstrations following the death of a 16-year-old girl who was killed by the government’s religious police for wearing her hijab too loosely — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Yerevan, becoming the highest ranking American official to visit Armenia since its independence, and subsequent cease fire after Azerbaijan’s latest attack on Armenia

On this week’s Cyber Report, sponsored by Fortress Information Security, Mark Montgomery, a retired US Navy rear admiral who is now the senior director of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and senior adviser on the bipartisan Cyber Solarium 2.0 commission, discusses the new report he co-authored with FDD’s Jiwon Ma —“2022 Report on Implementation” of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission’s recommendations — including legislations that’s passed, in process, remaining challenges and impediments, as well as an update on what leadership changes in the House and Senate will mean for cyber legislation; and Fortress’ Andrea Schaumann discusses cyber lessons from the revelation that Chinese alloys made it into a magnet in F-35 Lightning II fighters made by Lockheed Martin with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Greg Ulmer, the executive Vice president of Lockheed Martin’s Aeronautics sector, discusses the future of combat aviation, the US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft, lessons the US Navy is learning from operating the F-35C Lightning II, how to ensure the Next-Generation Air Dominance aircraft, the keys to speed, integrating with allies and partners, F-35 production rates, coping with inflation and more with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, sponsored by Bell, Amir Adnani, the president and CEO of Uranium Energy Corporation, America’s leading nuclear fuels firm, discusses the need for the United States to end its reliance on Russian nuclear fuels and increase investment in a sovereign source for both energy for clean energy and national security with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.