Insider: Short of War

Streamlining US Army Security Cooperation: Why Coordination is Key to Global Influence

In this episode, we explore how disjointed Army Security Cooperation efforts—across SFABs, ARSOF, and SPP—are missing the mark. From command silos to overlapping missions, we unpack why better coordination is critical to building lasting partnerships and deterring adversaries. Learn about three powerful structural fixes that could unleash the full potential of the Army’s global engagements.

Hostile Influencing and Finland’s Vulnerabilities

This episode explores Finland's struggle against escalating hybrid threats, including Russian GPS jamming, disinformation, and democratic vulnerabilities. Tune in for insights on national resilience, freedom of expression, and what other NATO countries can learn from Finland’s evolving security landscape.

Waterborne Assault: A Constant in Both Irregular and Conventional War

In this episode, we examine overlooked amphibious and riverine operations in irregular warfare, from French Indochina to modern Syria. Discover how waterborne missions have shaped—and continue to shape—conflict across centuries and why Western militaries must rethink their force design assumptions.

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.