Insider: Short of War

Secret Alliances and Silent Sabotage: Q & A with Dr Tony Insall

In this episode, we dive into the Norwegian resistance during WWII—its clandestine operations, intelligence networks, and the heroic efforts that helped shape the war’s outcome. Join us as we explore the impact of SOE, SIS, and key figures like Colin Gubbins in countering German occupation.

Strategy Through Action: Harriet Tubman as an Underappreciated Forebearer to Special Operations

In this episode, we explore how Harriet Tubman’s intelligence work and her leadership in the Combahee River Raid reflect the core principles of U.S. special operations. From building networks to achieving political goals through force, Tubman’s legacy offers valuable lessons for today’s military strategies.

Harnessing AI to Understand China's Grand Strategy

Explore how the PRC Grand Strategy AI model ("PRC-StrateGPT") uses artificial intelligence to decode Chinese strategy, with a case study of the Solomon Islands' geopolitical shift.

The UK’s New Take on Cyber

In this episode, we delve into the UK's evolving cyber power strategy, examining its cybersecurity policies, role in Great Power Competition, and approach to responsible cyber influence. From resilience to offensive cyber operations, we break down the nation's vision for digital sovereignty and global leadership in cyberspace.

The Fall of Assad’s Regime Shakes Iran’s Proxy Network Across the Middle East

In this episode, we examine how the collapse of Assad’s regime in Syria is disrupting Iran’s irregular warfare strategy, weakening Hezbollah, and reshaping power dynamics across the Middle East.

To Beat China’s Navy to the Punch, Defend Forward in Taiwan

The US is falling behind China in naval power, making conventional deterrence strategies for Taiwan ineffective. In this episode, we explore an alternative military approach—one that sidesteps China's naval dominance and strengthens deterrence through irregular warfare and strategic presence. Tune in to understand why a new US military strategy for Taiwan is critical for maintaining regional stability.

Lessons from the Frontlines: Ukrainian SEAD Operations and Their Implications for Western Special Operations Forces

In this episode, we explore Ukrainian SEAD operations and their impact on modern warfare. Learn how Ukrainian special operations forces have successfully targeted Russian air defenses and what this means for the future of U.S. and NATO SOF. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of tactics, strategies, and lessons from the frontlines.

Dominating Conflict’s Leading Edge: Five Principles for an Assertive Irregular Warfare Doctrine

In today’s episode, we delve deep into the complexities of irregular warfare in the modern geopolitical landscape. With global tensions on the rise, from the Syrian conflict to the shifting power dynamics in Ukraine and beyond, this episode explores the need for an adaptive and layered U.S. strategy to navigate the "gray zone" of conflict. From proxy deterrence and economic warfare to combating disinformation, we unpack the principles that can empower U.S. policy and defense efforts without escalating into full-blown war. Join us as we explore the evolving challenges and the strategic responses needed to safeguard global stability.

Enhancing USSOF Capacity to Foster Resistance: Aligning Authorities and Resources to Win the Gray Zone

n this episode, we dive into the evolving role of U.S. Special Operations Forces (USSOF) in Irregular Warfare (IW) and their growing impact on gray zone conflicts. USSOF’s adaptability, specialized skills, and focus on building resilient partnerships have made them pivotal in shaping regions and preempting threats—especially in conflicts like the ongoing war in Ukraine.
We explore how USSOF has been crucial in fostering resistance movements, from supporting Ukrainian efforts to counter Russian aggression through unconventional tactics, to the structural challenges they face in current U.S. Security Cooperation (SC) mechanisms. These mechanisms, while vital, are insufficient for supporting the expanding scope of USSOF operations. We delve into the shortcomings of existing funding and authority structures, such as Section 127d and the SSCI process, and propose a new, streamlined approach that would ensure USSOF’s continued agility and strategic success.
Join us as we analyze the intersection of policy, military strategy, and operational needs, and discuss how refining U.S. support for resistance-focused operations can enhance national security and global stability.

How to Counter Russian Occupation: Building Multinational Resistance Networks Before a Crisis

In this episode, we delve into the historical and modern strategies for countering Russian occupation. From the guerrilla tactics of the Forest Brothers to lessons drawn from Ukraine's resistance, discover how multinational cooperation, emerging technologies, and pre-crisis planning can strengthen NATO’s eastern flank. Learn why resilience, innovation, and unity are critical to resisting occupation and safeguarding sovereignty in the face of aggression.