The hottest Defense Policy Substack posts right now

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Chartbook 389: Europe's zombie armies. Or how to spend $3.1 trillion and have precious little to show for it.

Chartbook • 2246 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Military Spending Defense Policy International relations Geopolitics
  1. European countries have spent $3.1 trillion on defense over a decade, but they seem to have little effectiveness to show for it. This raises questions on how well the money has been utilized.
  2. Despite having many soldiers, the European military forces are fragmented and not effectively organized, which dilutes their combat power and efficiency.
  3. The focus on salaries and personnel has led to underinvestment in essential military equipment and capabilities, leaving Europe unprepared for modern defense challenges.

The Opportunity Costs of Offensive War

Points And Figures • 1039 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy Military technology International relations Political strategy
  1. Opportunity costs are important when making decisions, especially in war. They help clarify the impacts of our choices by forcing us to think in numerical terms.
  2. Advanced technologies like drones and robots are changing warfare. These advancements could minimize human losses, which changes how countries weigh the risks of engaging in conflict.
  3. Winning the tech race is crucial for national security. If a country falls behind in technological advancements, it could lose its strategic advantages in future conflicts.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 04.03.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy International relations Political strategy Military Spending
  1. Rødt's decision to join a military agreement means increased funding for the military, which some argue takes money away from social services like education and healthcare.
  2. The military strategies being developed may not be designed to protect Norway but rather to serve NATO and U.S. interests, moving towards potential aggressions rather than defenses.
  3. There's a growing disconnect between political leaders' decisions and the needs of the public, particularly in terms of defense spending versus welfare priorities.

German Dysfunction

Diane Francis • 1079 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics European Politics Defense Policy Security Studies
  1. Germany, despite being the richest and largest economy in Europe, has been slow to take charge in defending against Russian aggression.
  2. Recent military budget cuts indicate a lack of commitment to support Ukraine effectively, raising concerns about Germany's leadership role in Europe.
  3. Historical factors like post-war guilt and strong business ties to Russia influence Germany's cautious stance towards military involvement.

Iran’s Panopticon Prison: AI, Gaz-a-Lago and MIGA

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 48 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Cyber Warfare Nuclear proliferation Defense Policy Middle East
  1. The situation in Iran is tense, and the U.S. is using its power to respond to Iran's actions. This ongoing conflict feels like an invisible war that many believe has been underway for some time.
  2. There’s a focus on whether recent military actions against Iran succeeded. The results might change everything regarding the future relationship and actions of the U.S. and Iran.
  3. Iran's government and its supporters are being closely monitored using advanced technology. This means there’s a lot of data available, making it hard for people to hide from authorities.
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Data Warfare

How the Hell • 110 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security Defense Policy Military Strategy Intelligence Geopolitics
  1. Offensive data operations are being considered as a strategy against China. This means using information tactics to weaken their tech progress.
  2. The military industry is cautious about discussing these strategies openly. They think the ideas are good but worry about public talks.
  3. These operations aim to disrupt and slow down China's advancements in AI, which could have big implications for global technology competition.

Alex Karp: We Need a New Manhattan Project

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1585 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy Military technology International relations
  1. The author believes the tech industry should use its power to create advanced weapons to maintain peace, similar to the historic Manhattan Project. This could involve collaboration between the government and tech companies.
  2. They highlight that America's military strength has helped maintain world peace for nearly a century, and losing that superiority could create dangers for the future.
  3. The article suggests there's a growing belief against using military deterrence, which could lead to instability, so it's urgent for the U.S. and its allies to act and reinforce their military capabilities.

Ukraine's Trojan Trucks

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 66 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Strategy Geopolitics Conflict resolution Defense Policy
  1. Ukraine executed a surprise drone attack deep inside Russia that damaged a significant part of its nuclear capabilities. This shows Ukraine's military skill and creativity.
  2. The success of this operation highlights gaps in Russia's defense and intelligence, suggesting it may struggle to maintain its military strength. This could change the balance of power in the region.
  3. The use of cheap drones against a nuclear power illustrates a new direction in warfare. It raises questions about traditional military strategies and defenses for all nations, including the U.S.

Biden Ramps Up Nuclear Brinkmanship On His Way Out The Door

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1965 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Nuclear policy Foreign Relations Military Strategy Defense Policy
  1. The Biden administration has authorized Ukraine to use long-range missiles supplied by the US against Russian military targets. This decision raises concerns about a possible escalation in the conflict.
  2. Some officials believe this move may not change the overall situation in the war, but it risks provoking a strong response from Russia. There's a fear of pushing the conflict closer to direct confrontation.
  3. This policy change comes as political shifts occur, with a new administration potentially less supportive of Ukraine on the horizon. The risks taken in this situation highlight the serious dangers present in current international relations.

Top Links 639 Buybacks over investment in the US military-industrial complex. The Indian economy shifts gear. RAND on burden-sharing & Britain's wars of decolonization.

Chartbook • 557 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy Economic Policy International relations Political Economy
  1. There's a discussion about how companies are focusing more on buybacks instead of investing in important areas like the military complex. It raises questions about the priorities of businesses.
  2. The Indian economy appears to be making significant progress. This could indicate shifts in global economic dynamics and growth in emerging markets.
  3. A report from RAND explores how countries share defense responsibilities, particularly relating to Britain's historical wars. This could provide insights into current international relations and military commitments.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 23.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Election interference Defense Policy Geopolitical Tensions Political Influence
  1. USAID and other countries have been involved in influencing elections in Moldova, raising concerns about foreign interference in democratic processes.
  2. There is skepticism about the reliability and readiness of the British military, with opinions suggesting it may not be equipped for extensive deployments in Ukraine.
  3. Geopolitical dynamics are shifting, and there are discussions about potential new alliances, especially between the U.S. and Russia, which could affect future international relations.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 20.02.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary International relations Defense Policy Media Criticism Public Health
  1. There are concerns about how governments and media handle information regarding wars, similar to how it was during the Vietnam War. People are worried that the truth is being manipulated.
  2. The dialogue about peace in Ukraine is changing, particularly with Trump speaking directly to Russia, which has upset European leaders. They feel sidelined in the discussions.
  3. There is a growing fear and paranoia about Russia's actions and intentions in Europe, with calls for increased military readiness despite a lack of evidence for immediate threats.

Pete Hegseth: The Short Course

Thinking about... • 622 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Defense Policy Political Ideology Military Affairs Election Influence
  1. Pete Hegseth, who is nominated for a key defense position, has no real experience in national security or running large organizations.
  2. He doesn't recognize global threats to America and has a narrow view on military alliances, believing they are unnecessary.
  3. Hegseth promotes a military shaped by personal beliefs rather than expertise, which could lead to serious issues in defense strategy.

$10k defense grants + divorce reality tv + where immigration reform goes to die

ChinaTalk • 400 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy Reality TV Cultural Commentary Foreign Relations
  1. A new group is offering $5,000 to $10,000 grants to people who can share bold ideas about defense strategies and military innovation. They want fresh thinking and to challenge old ways of doing things.
  2. There's a popular Chinese reality show where married couples, on the verge of divorce, go on a road trip together. It's creating a lot of buzz as viewers watch their emotional journey unfold.
  3. Recent changes in U.S. immigration policy aim to help international students who were required to return to their home countries after studying. It took a long time to fix this issue, highlighting problems in the system.

What Europe is Missing.

Phillips’s Newsletter • 115 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Defense Policy International relations European Politics Security Studies Geopolitics
  1. European countries are starting to talk about their own military actions, especially regarding Ukraine. This shows a shift in how they view their defense responsibilities.
  2. There's a question about whether Europe can really defend itself without support from the USA. Many believe that it's not just about ability, but also mindset.
  3. The main issue isn't capability; it's whether European nations can picture themselves being independent in defense matters. It's more about perception than actual strength.

Why Ukraine Must Win

Diane Francis • 759 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Military conflict Defense Policy Foreign Aid
  1. Ukraine needs more military aid from the US and Europe to defend itself against Russia. Without this support, Russia could gain even more territory.
  2. If Ukraine gets the right amount of funding and military equipment this year, it could turn the situation around and push back Russian advances.
  3. If Ukraine loses, it would not only be a big shift in power but could also mean more US troops in Eastern Europe to handle the aftermath.

DoD Had Its Most Spendy Month Since the Bush Era

OpenTheBooks Substack • 217 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Spending Federal Budget Government Contracts Political Accountability Defense Policy
  1. In September 2024, the Department of Defense spent over $79 billion, marking its highest spending since 2008. This was a huge jump in expenses compared to past months.
  2. A lot of the money went to familiar things like ammunition and aircraft, but there were some surprising purchases too, like millions spent on lobster, steaks, and even musical instruments.
  3. Despite spending most of the budget within the U.S., the Pentagon also gave nearly $2 billion to foreign companies, showing a global aspect to military spending.

Support for Israel has a Long Bipartisan History

OpenTheBooks Substack • 2 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Aid Bipartisanship Military Spending Defense Policy
  1. The U.S. has given Israel a lot of money over the years, mainly for military support. It's around $305 billion since 1951, but this is a small part of what the U.S. spends on its own defense.
  2. Most of the aid goes directly to military and defense spending, allowing Israel to buy American-made weapons. This means American taxpayers help equip Israel's military.
  3. Support for Israel is mostly bipartisan, meaning both Republicans and Democrats have agreed on this aid. While Republicans have given slightly more overall, both parties continue to support Israel in various administrations.

The National Defense Argument

Economic Forces • 3 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Defense Policy Trade policy Tariffs Subsidies
  1. The national defense argument is often used to justify tariffs and subsidies. However, many economists view it skeptically, thinking it's a way for special interest groups to gain advantages.
  2. Earl Thompson's theory suggests that during wartime, price controls can distort markets. To fix this, policymakers might provide peacetime subsidies to help industries that would struggle because of these wartime distortions.
  3. Applying this theory today, tariffs on steel and aluminum may be reasonable since these materials are critical for national defense and are hard to import in times of war.

Zelensky's Five Point Plan is Asking for Ukraine to be Treated like a Normal, Sovereign European State

Phillips’s Newsletter • 92 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Sovereignty Defense Policy Foreign Aid Geopolitics
  1. Zelensky presented a five-point plan to emphasize Ukraine's right to be treated like any other European country. This is about making Ukraine part of the normal conversation in Europe.
  2. His plan includes reasonable requests for defense support and economic partnerships, which are common for democratic nations. It shows he is not asking for special treatment.
  3. The straightforward nature of his asks indicates a balanced approach, suggesting Ukraine seeks its rightful place in Europe without making extreme demands.

Saturday Commentary and Review #181

Fisted by Foucault • 154 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Political Philosophy Defense Policy Social movements Public Policy
  1. The collapse of the Syrian government has surprising global effects, especially concerning China's security. The presence of Uyghur militants fighting in Syria poses a potential threat to China's Xinjiang region.
  2. In many Western societies, the traditional separation between government and private interests has blurred. This post-liberal shift often sees political agendas influencing both public opinion and private actions.
  3. European nations are currently facing significant challenges, including economic passivity and loss of sovereignty. This has led to a sense of pessimism and isolation among many Europeans as they perceive a decline in their collective influence.

The Short War Illusion: The Real US Achilles Heel

Phillips’s Newsletter • 80 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy International relations Military Strategy Geopolitics Security Studies
  1. Many people wrongly believe that wars will end quickly, but history shows us that's often not the case. Thinking a war will wrap up in a few days is a dangerous illusion.
  2. This 'short war' mindset has been repeated before, like during the start of World War I and the early stages of the Ukraine conflict. Such beliefs can lead to serious strategic mistakes.
  3. The U.S. defense industry currently faces challenges that could make quick victories unlikely, especially in potential conflicts with countries like China. It’s important to prepare for long-term engagements.

How Can Ukraine's Security Be Guaranteed?

Comment is Freed • 86 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Security Studies European Politics Conflict resolution Defense Policy
  1. Security guarantees are important for protecting vulnerable nations like Ukraine from aggression. They help reassure those nations that allies will come to their aid if needed.
  2. Ukraine's past experiences, like the Budapest Memorandum, make them skeptical about security promises. When international support was needed, Ukraine found itself largely abandoned.
  3. To truly deter future aggression, Ukraine needs strong commitments from NATO or a substantial multinational force. This could help prevent another attack and show that the international community stands with Ukraine.

NATO: Fight "Fire with Fire"

Diane Francis • 759 implied HN points • 06 Feb 23
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Strategy Geopolitics Conflict analysis Defense Policy
  1. NATO needs to increase military support for Ukraine quickly to match Russia's aggression. Ukraine requires more tanks, fighter jets, and long-range rockets to effectively counter Putin's forces.
  2. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia is unlikely to end with negotiations. A decisive victory for Ukraine is necessary to ensure peace and the removal of Putin's threat.
  3. To avoid a stalemate, the West must fully commit to supporting Ukraine's military efforts. This includes supplying advanced weapons and making clear announcements of support to boost morale and deter Russia.

Ukrainian Drone Strategy Against Russian Energy Infrastructure: Part Two

Glen’s Substack • 39 implied HN points • 26 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International Conflict Military Strategy Geopolitics Defense Policy
  1. Ukraine has improved its drone technology, with new models like Nynja and Lyutyi enabling long-range attacks on Russian energy facilities. This has allowed them to expand their strike capabilities significantly.
  2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is crucial for these drones, helping them navigate through Russian defenses and improve accuracy. This technology allows drones to operate autonomously without satellite communication.
  3. There has been a shift in Ukraine's military stance, demonstrating confidence in using drones for strategic strikes. Successful attacks on key refinery components can cripple Russian operations and reduce their oil refining capacity.

Civilization 1 million, Russia 0

Diane Francis • 539 implied HN points • 30 Jun 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Defense Policy Conflict analysis Diplomacy
  1. The G7 and NATO have united to support Ukraine against Russia, marking a significant global response to aggression. This coalition aims to strengthen military and economic support for Ukraine.
  2. NATO is expanding its military presence and capability in response to the conflict, with plans to increase troops and improve defense strategies. This is a shift towards taking greater responsibility for European security.
  3. Despite the support for Ukraine, there is concern that it may not be enough to deter Russia, as the situation remains dire for Ukraine. The Ukrainian people are committed to their fight, showing resilience against overwhelming odds.

Japan, Germany Re-arm

Diane Francis • 379 implied HN points • 23 May 22
🌍 World Politics Global Alliances Military Affairs International relations Defense Policy
  1. Japan and Germany are increasing their military strength for the first time since World War II, mainly due to rising threats from Russia and China. This shift shows they are ready to play a bigger role in global security.
  2. Both countries are also changing their defensive strategies, with Japan possibly revising its pacifist constitution and Germany committing to higher defense spending. This reflects a new approach to handling international conflicts.
  3. The rearmament of these nations can alter the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region. Their actions signal support for democratic values and alliances against authoritarian threats.

Beijing Bullyboys

Diane Francis • 399 implied HN points • 17 May 21
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Defense Policy
  1. Taiwan is facing pressure from China to be absorbed back into its rule. Despite being economically successful, Taiwan remains isolated diplomatically with only a few countries recognizing it as independent.
  2. Taiwan dominates the global semiconductor market, making it vital for the world economy. Its advanced technology keeps it at the forefront, making it hard for competitors like China to catch up.
  3. Many countries, especially in Asia, have concerns about China's growing influence. It's important for these nations to support Taiwan, and better alliances are needed to counter China's ambitions.

Ukraine, Taiwan, and the Bullies

Diane Francis • 379 implied HN points • 22 Apr 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Defense Policy Geopolitics International Law Global Security
  1. Putin and China are increasingly aggressive, and their actions present a big challenge for Biden and the U.S. They are acting like bullies and trying to expand their influence.
  2. Both Ukraine and Taiwan are standing strong against these threats. Ukraine is preparing for possible war, while Taiwan is building up its defenses.
  3. The world needs to work together to stop the aggression from Russia and China. Biden must rally support from other countries to protect global peace and security.

The Missile Will Always Get Through.

Trying to Understand the World • 15 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Military Strategy International relations Conflict analysis Geopolitics Defense Policy
  1. Russia has developed advanced missile technology that can accurately strike targets far away. This puts them in a strong position since these missiles are hard to intercept.
  2. The West's reliance on manned aircraft for attacks is outdated compared to Russia's focus on missile capabilities. This means Russia can hit important infrastructure while the West struggles to defend against these attacks.
  3. Western leaders may not fully grasp the threat posed by Russia's missile advancements. There is a risk that they will ignore the reality of their vulnerability and not prepare adequately for potential conflicts.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 15.10.2024

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Advocacy Government Policy International relations Defense Policy Economic strategy
  1. BlackRock, a major investment firm, now manages $11.5 trillion, highlighting its immense financial power and influence in global markets.
  2. Toshiyuki Mimaki, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, draws a parallel between the suffering in Gaza and the devastation of Hiroshima, emphasizing ongoing humanitarian crises.
  3. Countries like Denmark are considering implementing 'war taxes' to cover increased military spending, reflecting broader trends in international defense funding.

YourINT SITREP (18 OCT 2024)

TOP SECRET UMBRA • 0 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🌍 World Politics Global Conflict Cybersecurity Geopolitics International relations Defense Policy
  1. China is becoming more aggressive in cyber warfare against the U.S., creating significant challenges for national security.
  2. The recent killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar has created chaos within the group, potentially leading to increased tensions in the region.
  3. There are growing issues around global security, with various countries experiencing internal conflicts and external pressures from groups like ISIS and Russia.

Le Missile passera toujours ... mais qui est prêt à l’admettre ?

Trying to Understand the World • 0 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Military Strategy Geopolitics Conflict resolution Defense Policy
  1. Russia has developed advanced missiles that can strike far distances with high precision. This means they can hit military and civilian targets without facing major risks.
  2. The West lacks effective missile defense against these Russian capabilities. This puts Western nations in a vulnerable position, unable to adequately protect themselves.
  3. The situation may force some European countries to reconsider their defense strategies and relationships with Russia, potentially leading to more conciliatory approaches.