Podcasts
The "Irregular Warfare Podcast" is the flagship program of the Irregular Warfare Initiative—and where it all started. Each episode brings together leading practitioners and scholars to unpack the complexities of modern competition, from proxy conflicts and statecraft to technology, economics, influence, and resilience. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms.
The Cyber-SOF-Space Triad and the Future of Army Special Operations
Episode 78 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast explores the evolution of Army special operations forces (ARSOF) and the ways that ARSOF can contribute to future irregular warfare campaigns around the world. Our guests begin by addressing current geopolitical trends and future threats to the United States and its allies. They
The Digital Bear in Ukraine: Russian Cyber Operations Since 2014
Episode 77 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast, which is also the second installment of the IWI Project on Cyber, explores cyber operations in the war in Ukraine. Our guests examine the use of cyber warfare and digital information operations in Ukraine since 2014. They begin by highlighting the differences between
The Terrorist’s Dilemma: How Non-State Actors Manage Covert Organizations
Episode 76 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast discusses the Terrorist’s Dilemma. Our guests begin by examining the tradeoffs terrorist organizations must make between maintaining security and exercising command and control. They then discuss examples of effective counterterrorist (CT) campaigns, what characterizes them, and how best to learn from past
Deterrence through Asymmetry: Preparing for Conflict in the Taiwan Strait
Episode 75 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast considers the prospect of a cross-strait conflict between China and Taiwan and the asymmetric defensive capabilities that Taipei needs to stave off an invasion by the People’s Liberation Army. Our guests begin by examining America’s longstanding policy of strategic ambiguity
War Transformed: How Emerging Technologies Are Changing Human Conflict
Ben Jebb and Adam Darnley-Stuart Episode 74 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast examines the effect of emerging technologies on warfare, and addresses the issues that today’s combat leaders will face on modern-day battlefields. Our guests begin by considering what past technological revolutions can teach us about changes
Connecting The Dots: An Inside Look At The National Defense Strategy
Episode 73 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast examines the National Defense Strategy and the way it interacts with irregular warfare. Our guests begin by describing the importance of the NDS and the way it distills guidance from the National Security Strategy down to the Pentagon. They then examine how the
Seizing The Digital Initiative: Zero Trust And Persistence In The Cyber Domain
Laura Jones and Maggie Smith Episode 72 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast is the first episode of the special Irregular Warfare Initiative Project Cyber. IWI projects explore critical topics impacting the modern practice, policy, and study of irregular warfare. Led by subject matter experts, each IWI project aims to cultivate
The Many Faces Of Al-Shabaab
Benjamin Jebb and Matthew Moellering Episode 71 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast examines the often misunderstood security dynamics of Somalia and al-Shabaab. Our guests begin by describing the complex security landscape of Somalia. They then examine al-Shabaab in depth and analyze the intricate methods the organization uses to
Misguided Citizens: India's Approach to Counterinsurgency
Jeff Phaneuf and Adam Darnley-Stuart Episode 70 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast explores the nuances of India’s approach to counterinsurgency throughout the nation’s history. Our guests assess the Indian counterinsurgency experience, including India’s philosophical approach, tactical innovations throughout India’s history, and the critical difference between
The Arctic Heats Up: Global Competition In The High North
Benjamin Jebb and Jeff Phaneuf Episode 69 of the Irregular Warfare Podcast examines the evolving relationship between climate change, Arctic security, and geopolitical competition. Our guests begin by describing America’s interests in the Arctic and the traditional institutions that have governed interstate relations in the High North. They then
Bridging the gap between irregular warfare scholars, practitioners, and policymakers.