NucleCast

Are perceived gaps in nuclear capabilities driving unnecessary fears of a new arms race? In this Part 2, Jay Tilden examines one of the most enduring questions in deterrence theory: How do perceptions of vulnerability influence nuclear strategy and global stability? Drawing on history, policy, and strategic theory, Tilden explores the concept of the “missile gap,” the political and psychological f...

In this episode, General (Ret.) Robin Rand joins NucleCast to discuss the mission and impact of the Kyle Institute for National Security at the University of Arizona . Rand provides an inside look at how the Institute is advancing national security through cutting-edge research in hypersonics, cyber, space, and directed energy , while building critical partnerships with federal agencies, the defen...

In this episode of NucleCast , Neile Miller breaks down the often-overlooked mechanics of federal budgeting and what they mean for the nuclear enterprise. From the earliest stages of budget formulation within the laboratories to the critical role of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Miller offers a clear, insider perspective on how funding decisions shape national security priorities. The...

In this episode of NucleCast , Adam sits down with Jay Tilden , former Department of Energy intelligence officer, for an inside look at how the U.S. understands, tracks, and deters nuclear risks in an increasingly complex global environment. From the intelligence role of the Department of Energy to the evolving threats posed by China, Russia, and Iran , Tilden breaks down the realities of nuclear...

In this episode of NucleCast , host Manolis Priniotakis sits down with former CIA executive Maura Burns to unpack China’s rapidly expanding nuclear capabilities and what they mean for global strategic stability. China is undertaking an unprecedented pace of nuclear modernization—building out its arsenal, advancing delivery systems, and investing in infrastructure that signals long-term strategic a...

What happens when a nuclear threat becomes real—and who responds first? In this episode of NucleCast , host Adam Lowther speaks with retired Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officer Steve Andros about nuclear incident response, interagency coordination, and the growing risks of proliferation and terrorism. From the role of local responders to specialized capabilities like the Nuclear Emergen...

In this episode of NucleCast , the official podcast of the ANWA Deterrence Center, Adam sits down with Todd Sriver , Director of Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3), to examine the current state and future of one of the most critical components of the U.S. nuclear enterprise. Together, they explore the ongoing modernization of NC3—from legacy systems rooted in 1980s-era technology t...

AI expert, Jonathan Cefalu , joins the conversation to examine some of the most pressing—and underappreciated—challenges in artificial intelligence safety, from prompt injection vulnerabilities to long‑term risks posed by increasingly capable systems. The discussion unpacks how seemingly technical issues like prompt injection can undermine reliability and security, why future AI systems may engage...

Former senior national security official Frank Rose joins the conversation to examine the future of arms control, nuclear policy, and strategic stability in an increasingly complex global environment. Drawing on his extensive experience in arms control, missile defense, and nuclear security, Rose offers a candid assessment of how arms control must adapt to a world shaped by great‑power competition...

Most discussions of AI and nuclear deterrence miss a critical question: does AI reinforce human decision‑making—or risk replacing it? In this episode, security expert Tom Summers outlines a practical framework for responsible AI use in the nuclear enterprise and explains why it matters for strategic stability. The conversation explores how AI can strengthen deterrence through enhanced intelligence...

NucleCast welcomes, emerging scholar Alyssa Agard who talks about Chinese strategic thinking, system destruction warfare , and what these concepts mean for the future of deterrence and strategic stability. Drawing on Chinese military theory, the discussion explores how Beijing approaches conflict—not by matching capabilities symmetrically, but by targeting critical systems to destabilize adversari...

In this episode of NucleCast , renowned nuclear expert David Albright offers a clear‑eyed assessment of Iran’s nuclear program—where it began, where it stands today, and the risks that lie ahead. Drawing on decades of experience tracking nuclear proliferation, Albright explains how Iran built its nuclear capabilities, the role of foreign assistance and clandestine networks, and why enrichment capa...

In this Legacy Series episode of NucleCast , Manolis Priniotakis explores the history and evolution of nuclear intelligence —from its origins during the Manhattan Project to the sophisticated capabilities shaping nuclear security today. Manolis brings deep insight into the missions, institutions, and technologies that have defined this critical field. The conversation traces early efforts such as...

In this episode of NucleCast , Adam speaks with Andrea Stricker , Deputy Director of Nonproliferation Programs at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, about the current state of Iran’s nuclear program and the implications of recent U.S. and Israeli military actions. Stricker breaks down Iran’s nuclear weapons pathway, assesses the impact of recent strikes on key facilities and personnel, and...

In this episode of NucleCast , retired Lieutenant General Dan Karbler joins the podcast to examine the evolving landscape of air and missile defense amid ongoing regional conflicts and accelerating technological change. Drawing on decades of operational and strategic leadership, LTG Karbler discusses how layered missile defense—from strategic homeland defense to tactical systems —is adapting to in...

In this episode of NucleCast , Professor Dakota Rudesill, Esq. examines the legal boundaries that govern the use of military force, with a particular focus on the United States and Iran. Drawing on constitutional law, international law, and decades of historical precedent, Rudesill unpacks who truly holds the authority to take the nation to war—and under what conditions. The conversation explores...

In this episode of Nuclecast , Iran analyst Alireza Nader breaks down the current military conflict involving Iran and what it means for the Middle East and beyond. Drawing on decades of expertise, Nader examines Iran’s strategic military doctrine, including its reliance on drones and missiles, and explains how regional power dynamics are shaping the conflict’s trajectory. The conversation explore...

In this episode of NucleCast , Adam is joined by Dr. Stacie Pettyjohn , senior fellow and director of the Defense Program at the Center for a New American Security, for a thoughtful discussion on the growing role of artificial intelligence in defense and military operations . Dr. Pettyjohn explores how AI is increasingly shaping everything from logistics and decision‑making to nuclear command and...

Colonel Derek “Kiwi” Williams joins NucleCast for a wide‑ranging discussion on the evolving nuclear landscape and what it means for global security. Together, they examine recent developments in nuclear testing , including China’s reported testing activities and the use of decoupling techniques , and assess their implications for strategic stability. The conversation also explores the consequences...

Join host Adam Lowther and guest Christopher Stone, a senior fellow at the National Institute for Deterrence Studies, as they delve into the intricacies of the National Defense Strategy (NDS) on this episode of NucleCast. Explore the critical debate around the perceived shift in American defense priorities, particularly the focus on Homeland Defense and its implications for global strategic dynami...

Greenland’s strategic importance is hotter than ever—and the questions about the U.S. desire to secure access aren’t just political posturing. In this eye-opening episode, defense expert Bob Peters from the Heritage Foundation reveals why Greenland is a critical security linchpin for North America, and why fears of U.S. invasion are utterly unfounded. From Cold War radar stations to today’s race t...

Major General Brook Leonard delves into the evolving role of space in military strategy and its implications for global security. The conversations highlight Leonard's experiences in operationalizing space within the U.S. military, emphasizing the transition of space from a supportive to a warfighting domain. Leonard discusses the strategic importance of integrating air and space capabilities, the...

Dr. Ben Zweibelson, a retired US Army officer and author of "Bad War Stories" delves into the complexities of military planning, particularly in the context of nuclear deterrence and the lessons learned from two decades of conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan. Dr. Zweibelson discusses how traditional military strategies often fall short in real-world applications, emphasizing the need for innovation a...

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam talks with Professor John Copper, a leading expert on Taiwan, to discuss the complex history and current geopolitical landscape of Taiwan. The conversation explores Taiwan's identity, its relationship with China, and the implications of US-China relations. Professor Copper emphasizes the exaggerated urgency of China's reunification efforts and highlights Taiwan's...

Professor Hugh White from the Australian National University discusses the evolving security landscape in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in light of China's rise as a global power. The conversation explores the implications of the US-China rivalry for Australia, the role of allies, and the necessity of nuclear deterrence in maintaining regional stability. White expresses concern about Austr...