Deterrence Down Under​

This episode discusses the mission and importance of the School of Advanced Nuclear Deterrence Studies (SANDS) with director Dr. Deaile. We also explore ways to ensure extended deterrence in the Indo-Pacific and Europe given the growing capabilities of our adversaries.

In this episode, the Carl, Christine, and Natalie welcome Frank Miller and Madelyn Creedon to discuss the complexities of nuclear deterrence in the current geopolitical landscape, focusing on the challenges posed by China and Russia. They emphasize the urgency of modernization and the need for a balanced approach between nuclear and conventional capabilities. The conversation also explores the role of allies in the Asia-Pacific region, the potential for an Asian NATO, and the implications of nuclear proliferation among friendly nations.

In this episode, Christine and Natalie engage with Dr. Mariana Budjeryn, a nuclear historian, to discuss her book 'Inheriting the Bomb' and the complexities surrounding Ukraine's nuclear disarmament. They explore the historical context of Ukraine's nuclear arsenal, the narratives surrounding its disarmament, and the implications of security assurances from major powers. Mariana shares her personal reflections on the ongoing war in Ukraine, the challenges faced by nuclear facilities under occupation, and the lessons learned for international security and cooperation.

This conversation delves into the significance of wargaming in enhancing defence strategies in Australia. The hosts and guests discuss the definitions, types, and structures of wargames, their target audiences, and the emotional engagement they foster in decision-making. They also compare Australia's wargaming practices with those of other countries, emphasizing the role of think tanks and the need for more resources and commitment to wargaming in defence planning.

In this episode, Carl, Christine, and Natalie engage in a comprehensive discussion with Hugh White about the implications of China's growing nuclear capabilities and the shifting strategic landscape in the Asia-Pacific region. They explore Australia's position in this changing world, the dynamics of US-China military competition, and the lessons learned from the Cold War regarding nuclear deterrence.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Natalie Treloar, Dr Carl Rhodes and Christine Leah, PhD, of the National Institute for Deterrence Studies. The group discuss a range of topics, including: The evolution of deterrence theory throughout the Cold War and in the post-Cold War world as we face an era of great power competition. Australia’s history of using deterrence-focused platforms without a coherent strategy of deterrence despite the plans outlined in the Defence Strategic Review and National Defence Strategy. The future of Australia’s deterrence capabilities and how to expand the public understanding of deterrence as a “whole-of-nation” effort with benefits for all Australians.

Dr. Peter Layton joins Carl, Christine, and Natalie to discuss Australia's National Defense Strategy and the concept of deterrence within an alliance. The strategy emphasizes conventional deterrence and working with the US and key partners to maintain a favorable regional strategic balance and explores the challenges of building a force to contribute to an alliance versus deterring independently, the role of offense and defence in the modern era, and the concept of integrated deterrence.

Christine and Natalie interview the Honorable Frank C. Miller where they discuss the need for the US to revitalize its nuclear arsenal and policies in the face of a tripolar superpower nuclear competition.

Carl, Natalie, and special guest, Bob Peters, discuss options for extended AUKUS cooperation.

Curtis hosts three experts in Australia, Dr. Christine Leah, Dr. Carl Rhodes, and Natalie Treloar, as they discuss AUKUS from an Australian perspective and its association with deterrence.

Natalie, Christine and Carl are joined by NATO Director of Nuclear Policy, Jim Stokes. They discuss how extended deterrence works at NATO, NATO’s role in the Indo-Pacific, the strategic challenge posed by China, specifically its nuclear buildup, and how NATO needs complementarity and coherence between conventional and nuclear deterrence and defense.

In this episode of Deterrence Down Under, the hosts engage with Anum A Khan, an expert on Pakistan's nuclear strategy. The conversation explores Pakistan's historical context in nuclear deterrence, its strategic responses to India, and the complexities of its geopolitical relationships, particularly with China and India. The discussion also delves into the effectiveness of nuclear weapons in maintaining peace, the importance of communication and confidence-building measures, and the need for dialogue in resolving conflicts.

In this episode, Dr. Carl Rhodes joins Christine and Natalie as a guest and discusses his report on small uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) and their implications for military strategy, particularly for the Australian Army. He highlights the growing threat posed by these systems, their evolution from commercial to military use, and the challenges they present in terms of air superiority. The conversation also delves into defense strategies, the balance between passive and active defenses, and the blurred lines between tactical and strategic military actions.

Carl and Christine welcome RAND researchers Dahlia Goldfeld and Nathan Beauchamp-Mustafaga to discuss their report titled “Denial Without Disaster: Keeping a US-China Conflict over Taiwan Under the Nuclear Threshold.” This episode delves into China’s nuclear buildup, its doctrine of nuclear first use, potential pathways to Chinese nuclear escalation and strategies the US can employ to minimize the likelihood of escalation.

Carl, Christine, and Natalie discuss the concept of mass in military strategy, its relevance in modern warfare, and the implications of nuclear weapons on deterrence. They explore the evolution of air power, the importance of precision in strikes, and the current state of Australia's defense industry. The conversation highlights the need for innovation and the challenges faced in military preparedness in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Carl, Christine, and Natalie discuss preparedness, transparency, and acquisition in relation to deterrence. The Australian Triad also discuss Australia’s purchase of loitering munitions, its recent role in cyber deterrence, and the importance of readiness and sustainment to deterrence.

The Australian triad, Carl, Christine, and Natalie, discuss the importance of transparency in deterrence, including transparency to the Australian public, partners, and potential adversaries. They highlight the need for clear communication of what Australia is deterring and the tools of deterrence, such as capability, credibility, and communication.

In this special episode, Natalie and Carl discuss Australia’s National Defence Strategy and the associated Integrated Investment Program. They examine the assumptions and discuss the plan to address Australia’s most challenging strategic environment since World War II.

Carl, Christine, Natalie, and Justin Anderson discuss whether Australia can trust the United States to deliver deterrence as part of their alliance.