On Future War

On Future War is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Indo-Paciific. On this penultimate episode, OFW series regulars Scott "Roger" Chafian and Mike "Pako" Benitez discuss how big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are collectively changing not only our lives on a near-daily basis, but influencing armed...

On Future War is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Indo-Pacific. On this penultimate episode, OFW series regulars Scott "Roger" Chafian and Mike "Pako" Benitez discuss how big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are collectively changing not only our lives on a near-daily basis, but influencing armed...

In this episode we will be discussing computer chip vulnerabilities. In recent years the United States has shifted focus from the Global War on Terrorism to preparing for peer level threats. Key to this shift is the development of modern, networked weapons. These weapons would not be possible without microelectronics, better known as computer chips. These small components are the enabling technolo...

In the complex expanse of modern global commerce and naval operations, the challenges of long-range contested logistics and the impacts of asymmetric commerce raiding have come to the forefront. Join us for a thought-provoking episode of On Future War as we delve into the intricate complications of replenishment and resupply over vast distances, examining the strategic imperatives and technologica...

In the contemporary landscape of warfare, the intricacies of maintaining a robust and sustainable supply chain for critical weaponry and ammunition have emerged as pivotal strategic imperatives. Join us for a compelling episode of On Future War as we delve into the intricate nuances of supply chain management and the impending challenge of weapons attrition, dissecting the complexities of inventor...

In the ever-evolving realm of naval warfare, the landscape of US warship development stands at a pivotal juncture, characterized by dynamic shifts in design, technology, and strategic priorities. Join us on a captivating episode of On Future War as we navigate the intricacies of the present and future state of US warship development, shedding light on the near-term outlook for design evolution, pr...

In the increasingly interconnected landscape of modern warfare, the pivotal role of Global Positioning System (GPS) technology has become indispensable to the operations of the US military. Join Brian "Sunshine" Sinclair and Scott "Roger" Chafian on a thought-provoking episode of On Future War as we explore the intricate nuances surrounding the US military's dependence on GPS, evaluating the vulne...

In this episode, Pako and Scar return to examine the concepts, abilities, and future of Remotely Piloted Aircraft in warfare. The discussion reviews the history of technology, from early trials in the 1910s to the current day. The difference between remotely piloted aircraft and autonomous aircraft is clarified, emphasizing the human involvement in drone operations. The conversation also investiga...

On this episode, Mike "Pako" Benitez and Andrew "Scar" Van Timmeren discuss the differences between fourth and fifth-generation fighter jets, focusing on the F-22 and F-35, with insights on the learning curve and intuitive nature of the Lightning II compared to the complexity of the Raptor. Pako and Scar further discuss situational awareness and task management in modern fighters, with a look ahea...

In this early access episode 3 of On Future War Mike ‘Pako ’Benitez (USAF), Dr. Lance ‘Boil’ Lewis (USMC) and Scott ‘Roger’ Chafian (USN). explore the background and rationale behind the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030, which has fundamentally changed the doctrine, and operating concepts of the US Marine Corps. Removing tanks and transitioning from artillery to rocket units were just the first par...

In this episode of "On Future War," hosts Scott "Roger" Chafian, Mike "Pako" Benitez, and Matt "Flounder" Arny dive into the strategic and controversial world of China's man-made island bases. They discuss the historical locations, construction strategies, and strategic intents behind these "unsinkable carriers.” We explore the military viability, potential vulnerabilities, and the considerable po...

'On Future War' is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Pacific. On this inaugural episode, Mike "Pako" Benitez ( The Merge ) and Scott "Roger" Chafian set the stage by delving into the challenges posed by technologies (including cruise- and hypersonic missiles) to power projection and the sustainability of forward depl...