The hottest Defense Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

What to make of China's 6th gen?

TP’s Substack • 53 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Defense
  1. China's 6th generation fighter jets may be larger and more powerful than previous models, possibly able to carry more fuel and advanced electronics.
  2. The future of air warfare might rely on a mix of manned aircraft and unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), potentially changing the typical roles and payloads expected of fighter jets.
  3. The anticipated design and capabilities of these new jets suggest they will need significant power for advanced technologies, allowing them to perform a variety of missions effectively.

OSD 300: Open Source Defense Capital

Open Source Defense • 59 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
💼 Business Defense
  1. Modern tech is changing the civilian defense industry, making it more about community and content creation than just products. Companies are now focusing on building strong organizations and engaging their customers online.
  2. Founders in the civilian defense space face challenges due to a lack of resources and funding, which makes it harder for them to grow. This is different from the tech startup ecosystem, where support is abundant.
  3. To improve gun rights, it's important to create and promote high-quality gun products. Great products can help change laws and build a supportive community around them.

Picking a Proven Winner: NRO and Starshield

Ill-Defined Space • 47 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Defense
  1. The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) is rapidly deploying satellites using SpaceX's Starshield, increasing its satellite fleet significantly in a short time. This means they are becoming more reliant on a single company for their satellite manufacturing needs.
  2. In contrast, the Space Development Agency (SDA) is struggling to build a solid supply chain and is concerned about its satellite manufacturers. They need to make and deploy a larger number of satellites than currently planned.
  3. The NRO's approach may help it quickly achieve its goals, but it raises questions about the risk of depending heavily on SpaceX for critical military capabilities.

The Deadly Duo

Diane Francis • 219 implied HN points • 25 Oct 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. The U.S. promises to defend Taiwan, but there's skepticism about whether that support will actually happen.
  2. President Biden's commitment to Ukraine is also doubted by Putin, who believes he can protect Russia's interests.
  3. Both Taiwan and Ukraine are seen as targets by bigger powers, highlighting the risks in global politics.

More thoughts on 6th generation projects

TP’s Substack • 43 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Defense
  1. The J-36 aircraft is designed to handle very high power demands for its various technologies, like radar and electronic warfare. This means it needs advanced electrical systems to support all its capabilities.
  2. The J-36 is a multi-role aircraft that acts as a central hub, coordinating various other unmanned vehicles and aircraft during missions. This makes it a crucial part of modern combat strategies.
  3. With its potential long range and high speed, the J-36 can launch attacks from great distances while remaining hard to detect. It's designed to be a tough target for enemies, making it a valuable asset in air operations.
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The idea that Trump will undermine NATO conflicts with everything Trump actually did while he was in office

Michael Tracey • 111 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. The idea that Trump will undermine NATO conflicts with his actual actions while in office, such as expanding NATO and increasing funding for it, showing a more supportive stance towards the alliance.
  2. Focusing on Trump's actual policy record is more factual and rational than getting caught up in his campaign rhetoric or social media posts, helping provide a clearer picture of his presidency.
  3. Despite common assumptions, Trump's support for American hegemony, including through NATO, does not align with the belief that he would dismantle the alliance, as evidenced by his actions and policies.

TRUMP DOWNGRADES THE US MILITARY

Seymour Hersh • 25 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. Firing General Charles Brown from the Joint Chiefs of Staff is seen as a misguided decision. Many believe that he had valuable experience and connections that were beneficial to US military leadership.
  2. The appointment of a less qualified replacement raises concerns about the future of military leadership in the US. It could lead to less effective decision-making at high levels.
  3. There are worries about Trump's approach to military leadership and how it affects international relations, especially with countries like Israel and Iran. The changes might harm efforts to stabilize those relationships.

The Musk-a16z admin continues to grow

Alex's Personal Blog • 32 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. X, previously known as Twitter, is raising the price of its Premium+ subscription by 37.5%, making it more expensive than other similar services. This change is part of X's strategy to offer an ad-free experience and advanced AI features.
  2. Sriram Krishnan and Scott Kupor from venture firm a16z are taking significant roles in the new administration, focusing on AI policy and government workforce reform. Their backgrounds hint at a blend of tech and government aiming for innovation and efficiency.
  3. Defense contracting firms like Palantir and Anduril are teaming up with other tech companies to create competition for U.S. government contracts. This could disrupt the current system, which has faced criticism for inefficiency and high costs.

He Just Can't Win: After Enduring Chinese Balloon Criticism, Republican Calls Biden 'Trigger-happy'

The Washington Current • 19 implied HN points • 13 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. Republicans criticize Biden for not acting on Chinese spy balloon, then call him 'trigger-happy' for taking down other objects.
  2. US shot down multiple unidentified flying objects after the Chinese balloon incident, raising security concerns.
  3. Increased vigilance post-balloon incident leads to heightened detection of aerial objects in the US and Canada.

February 19, 2025

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. The U.S. is shifting its support away from Ukraine and leaning towards Russia, which is causing concerns about international alliances. This change in support reflects the interests of former President Trump rather than the American people's wishes.
  2. Negotiations between the U.S. and Russia have started, but Ukraine is being excluded from these talks. This raises questions about Ukraine's future sovereignty and whether peace can be achieved without their involvement.
  3. American military and political leaders are worried that Trump's approach is weakening NATO and could lead to further Russian aggression in Europe. There is a call for stronger unity among European nations to counter this threat.

The Festival of Jackasses

The Radar • 19 implied HN points • 11 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. We elect the members of Congress, so their behavior reflects us as a society. There's always been a presence of 'jackasses' in politics, but we notice them more as we become jaded to their actions.
  2. Senator Tommy Tuberville's abuse of power in blocking military officer nominations is causing significant disruptions in the military's functioning. His actions are impacting readiness and causing distractions within the defense establishment.
  3. Tuberville's actions highlight the risk of one individual holding national defense hostage based on personal opinions. This emphasizes the importance of preventing such instances to maintain a strong defense and safeguard against exploitation by adversaries.

What if Trump Wins?

Comment is Freed • 66 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Defense
  1. There is a growing concern about the international situation, specifically due to challenges in Ukraine, militarization in Russia, and tensions with Iran and China.
  2. There is a debate about increasing defense spending in the UK to address urgent security needs, but economic conditions and political decisions are factors affecting this.
  3. Europe is considering how to cope with the potential return of Donald Trump to power after the next US presidential elections, with uncertainties around polls, legal cases, and candidate health.

Mysteries at the Top of Sky and at the Bottom of the Swamp: Drones, Barbarians and Gatekeepers (Part One)

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 27 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. There are many mysterious drone sightings happening all over the world, especially close to sensitive areas like military bases and nuclear sites. This raises questions about who is operating these drones and why they are flying in these restricted airspaces.
  2. The U.S. government's lack of response or clarity about these drone activities seems strange. It leads people to wonder if there is more going on that the public isn't being told, or if they fear that acknowledging these threats could escalate tensions with foreign nations.
  3. Some theories suggest the drones might be linked to foreign powers or even covert government operations. This uncertainty leaves local authorities frustrated and worried about potential dangers.

Mysteries at the Top of Sky and at the Bottom of the Swamp: Drones, Barbarians and Gatekeepers (Part Two)

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 24 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. There's a lot of strange stuff happening with drones and UAPs. Sometimes, it seems like electronics go haywire when these drones show up, which is unusual.
  2. The government seems to have a plan to flood the skies with drones to confuse people. If they shoot something down, it’ll be hard to tell if it was a drone or an alien craft.
  3. There's a worry that the government is stifling new tech companies to keep their secrets safe. Some believe they might be hiding advanced technologies from the public.

Can Ukraine's Air Defence Systems Cope?

Comment is Freed • 86 implied HN points • 19 May 23
🌍 World Politics Defense
  1. Ukraine is seeking more modern weaponry and air defense systems to cope with Russian air power.
  2. Russian attacks on Ukraine are causing real damage and stress, especially targeting critical infrastructure.
  3. Ukraine has shown improvement in its air defense capabilities, successfully intercepting Russian missiles and drones.

The SDA’s Inertia-imposed Challenges

Ill-Defined Space • 19 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. The Space Development Agency (SDA) is struggling with supply chain issues for satellite manufacturing. This is partly due to a past focus on slow production, which created a system that favors large companies over smaller, more agile ones.
  2. The SDA's contracts often go to established companies that have experience writing proposals but may lack the capability to produce satellites quickly. This means the SDA risks getting solutions that aren't as effective as what smaller, more innovative companies could offer.
  3. The SDA aims to increase the number of satellites produced swiftly, but many contractors may not be able to meet these high demands. This situation emphasizes the need for a more responsive and effective satellite manufacturing base.

Decapitation Strike Part 2

Autodidact Obsessions • 8 implied HN points • 27 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. The U.S. assumes its military strength can handle any threats, but it overlooks how vulnerable it can be to surprise attacks from within.
  2. Illegal immigration and modern technology could allow hostile groups to easily infiltrate and organize in the U.S. without detection.
  3. The current legal framework protects these infiltrators, creating a situation where even a massive armed presence could go unnoticed until it's too late.

Is China Preparing for War?

Pekingnology • 79 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Defense
  1. The article may have misunderstood routine practices and legal changes in China.
  2. Xi Jinping's speeches contained familiar messaging that aligns with past Chinese leadership.
  3. Understanding the nuances of language and context in Chinese official statements is key to interpreting the situation accurately.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 30.06.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. Russia has launched a significant attack on Ukraine's defense industry using hypersonic missiles and drones. This may be the largest attack since the conflict escalated.
  2. There are updated warnings from health officials about COVID-19 vaccines, which now include potential serious heart issues that could affect younger males more frequently.
  3. The ecosystem is under threat from technology like 5G, which many believe is harming wildlife and the environment. This has led to growing public concern and calls for more research on these impacts.

Trump & Hegseth Shock on Ukraine

John’s Substack • 11 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. Trump and Hegseth are proposing major changes to the US policy on Ukraine. They believe this could reshape how the US interacts with Europe.
  2. Hegseth mentioned that Ukraine is unlikely to join NATO soon. This reflects a shift in the US's approach to European alliances.
  3. Trump suggested that there might be potential talks with Putin about ending the conflict in Ukraine. This indicates a desire for negotiation rather than continued involvement.

Why can't we shoot down drones?

Nathan’s Substack • 4 HN points • 09 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Defense
  1. In the face of drone threats, the issue is more political than technical, with acquisition processes being slow and bureaucratic.
  2. Obsolete air defense doctrines make it difficult to track and counter drones effectively, necessitating a shift in strategies.
  3. Technologically, there are solutions for detecting and neutralizing drones, including directed energy weapons, but bureaucratic hurdles are hindering their deployment.

Examples of governments doing good in house (or contracted) technical research

The Good blog • 26 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Defense
  1. Governments, particularly the US, are involved in a variety of technical research areas such as defense, regulatory agencies, and other government departments.
  2. There is a mix of in-house and contracted technical research, with some independent agencies excelling in this area.
  3. Defense research tends to dominate government technical research, with no clear pattern indicating whether in-house or contracted research is more successful.

The Public Wants Less Scoring

House of Strauss • 45 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
🎾 Sports Defense
  1. The public wants less scoring in basketball games
  2. Playoff basketball is compelling due to slower pace and less efficient scoring
  3. Fans enjoy highly contested possessions and friction in games just as much as points

India On The Heels Of USA In Defense And Space Manufacturing - Could It Outpace By 2030?

Golden Pineapple • 31 implied HN points • 25 Oct 23
💼 Business Defense
  1. India is making significant strides in defense and space manufacturing, with 10% of growing companies in the industry based there.
  2. The top 10 fastest growing companies in defense and space manufacturing include notable names like Mach Industries, Pixxel, and Vannevar Labs.
  3. About 70% of the 117 growing defense and space manufacturing companies prioritize the engineering department, showing a strong focus on technology and innovation.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 26.06.2025

steigan.no • 3 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. The extension of Ørland airbase in Norway will take a large amount of farmland, raising concerns about food security and local farmers' futures.
  2. Many hydrogen companies are struggling financially, highlighting issues in the green energy sector and the challenges of making their technologies viable.
  3. Germany is dramatically increasing its military spending and changing its foreign policy approach, raising alarms about rising nationalism and potential conflicts.

In Defense of Biden and Trump

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 18 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. Both Joe Biden and Donald Trump are facing challenges, but some believe Biden's age isn't insurmountable.
  2. Matt Bennett argues that Biden's age brings experience and wisdom, while Trump's age shows chaos and anger, which could impact the election.
  3. Elbridge Colby believes Trump's stance on NATO is justified due to threats from Russia and the need to focus on China, urging NATO members to meet defense spending commitments to enhance European security.

Disclosure of Anomalous Phenomena

Dr. Pippa's Pen & Podcast • 30 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Defense
  1. Congress has passed legislation to share information on anomalous phenomena with the public.
  2. The US military official David Grusch testified about hidden UAP activities in US Government programs.
  3. Former and current government officials are cooperating to disclose information about recovered materials and crafts from space.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 03.01.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. Former UK defense chief Sir Nicholas Carter mentioned that Western militaries learned from Israel's military operations, particularly highlighting the ongoing violence in Gaza.
  2. In South Korea, police attempted to arrest President Yoon Suk Yeol, making headlines due to his alleged corruption and failed coup attempts.
  3. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made controversial claims that Bill Gates and WHO have used vaccines to sterilize women in Africa without their consent.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 02.02.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. The war in Ukraine is showing signs of collapse for Ukraine's front lines. This highlights the challenges that Western military support has faced.
  2. African countries are distancing themselves from France, with many ending military agreements and calling for the removal of French troops. This marks a significant shift in former colonial relationships.
  3. Trump's trade policies could destabilize the global economy by harming the ability of countries like Mexico to pay off debts. This could lead to broader economic issues and potential defaults.

Russo-Ukrainian War: The Reckoning

Big Serge Thought • 16 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Defense
  1. The Russo-Ukrainian War in the age of social media and cameras revealed the complexities of modern warfare.
  2. Footage from Ukraine offers valuable insight into tactics and weapon systems in near-real-time.
  3. American entertainment elements in war coverage may not reflect the reality of conflict outcomes and the challenges faced by both sides.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 18.10.2024

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense
  1. Raytheon is paying over $950 million to avoid prosecution for bribery. This settlement includes fines and reimbursements for inflated costs in military contracts.
  2. Ukraine is offering its valuable minerals like lithium and uranium to the West. These resources are worth billions, and Ukraine seeks financial support and military aid in return.
  3. Politicians often apologize for their actions but do not face real consequences. Many leaders express regret over past decisions, but this seldom affects their careers or policies.

A geostrategic catastrophe awaits

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 11 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Defense
  1. A geostrategic catastrophe is looming due to actions of certain political figures undermined defense efforts.
  2. Republicans' actions might have far-reaching consequences beyond just the situation in Ukraine.
  3. Consider subscribing to 'The Cosmopolitan Globalist' for further insight on this looming catastrophe.

Anduril - Forging the $8Bn Defense Tech Unicorn

Termsheet by Attack Capital • 13 implied HN points • 06 Jul 23
💼 Business Defense
  1. Anduril is a defense company focusing on autonomous systems for war monitoring with AI and computer vision.
  2. Palmer Luckey, founder of Oculus VR, started Anduril after being fired from Facebook for donating to a pro-trump organization.
  3. Anduril's product suite includes Lattice OS, Force Protection, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and Underwater Vehicles.

The Art of Moving Target Defense

Phoenix Substack • 14 implied HN points • 04 May 23
🕹 Technology Defense
  1. Traditional defense strategies like firewalls and antivirus are no longer sufficient against sophisticated cyber attacks.
  2. Moving target defense involves knowing your network, understanding enemy tactics, and using deception to confuse attackers.
  3. Implementing a moving target defense strategy can help organizations stay ahead of cyber threats by evolving and adapting their defense tactics.

Anatomy of Storm Shadow Interception

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 1 HN point • 30 Jun 23
🌐 International Defense
  1. The Storm Shadow missile is extremely fast, hitting almost supersonic speeds, making it challenging to intercept.
  2. The Pantsir air defense system showed the capability to detect and engage stealthy targets at significant ranges.
  3. The videos provide rare insight into the dynamics of tracking and engaging low observable or stealth targets, confirming figures from actual literature.

War Is Complicated.

Trying to Understand the World • 3 implied HN points • 03 May 23
🌍 World Politics Defense
  1. War is incredibly complex, involving strategic objectives, sectoral policies, and defense capabilities.
  2. Equipment alone does not equate to capability in warfare; there is a need for proper training, integration, and maintenance.
  3. The concept of modern mercenaries in warfare is often rooted in misconceptions and unrealistic expectations of their capabilities and impact.