NucleCast

Gordon Chang discusses the significant threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party under Xi Jinping. They explore China's imperial ambitions, the mindset of its leadership, the implications for Taiwan, and the potential for conflict. Gordon also delves into China's nuclear ambitions and the ongoing warfare through means such as fentanyl trafficking, emphasizing the need for Americans to recognize...

Tristan Tang discusses Taiwan's security dilemma in the face of increasing threats from China. The conversation explores the Taiwanese perspective on military preparedness, defense spending, and the expectations of U.S. support in the event of a conflict. Tristan shares insights on the societal attitudes towards the threat of invasion, the military strategies being employed, and the potential cons...

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Dr. Rich Tighe, the president and CEO of Consolidated Nuclear Security, discussing the current operations and future outlook of the Y-12 National Security Complex. Rich explains the complex's historical significance, its current missions, and the challenges it faces in workforce recruitment and safety. The conversation also touches on modernization eff...

General Tom Bussiere, the commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, discusses the modernization of the nuclear triad, including the challenges and progress of the Sentinel system, updates on the B-21 program, and the importance of long-range stand-off capabilities. He emphasizes the need for support and understanding of the nuclear enterprise and shares insights on recent operations and future...

In this episode of NucleCast, Gibum Kim from the Korean Institute for Defense Analysis to discuss the recent political changes in South Korea, particularly the impact of the new Democratic Party leadership on foreign policy, especially regarding North Korea and the US-South Korea alliance. They explore the philosophical differences between the political parties regarding denuclearization, the futu...

In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam speaks with Matthew Loh, a defense reporter from Singapore, about the complex geopolitical landscape in Southeast Asia, particularly regarding Singapore's relationship with China and the United States. Loh provides insights into Singapore's unique position as a small but strategically important nation, navigating its ties with major powers while maintaining...

In this episode of NucleCast, Brent Sadler discusses the current state of the U.S. Navy, focusing on shipbuilding challenges, the need for increased capacity, and the implications of China's naval expansion. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration with allies, the role of government in revitalizing the shipbuilding industry, and the strengths and weaknesses of both the U.S. and Chinese naval...

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Michael Casey, a former DIA analyst, about the modernization of China's military, particularly its command-and-control systems and nuclear strategy. They discuss the evolution of China's military capabilities, the challenges it faces in integrating new technologies, and the implications of its ambitions for global dominance. The conversation also touch...

In this Legacy Series episode of NucleCast, Adam speaks with General Paul Tibbets IV, the grandson of the pilot who dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. They discuss the historical significance of the event, the life and legacy of General Tibbets, the preparation and execution of the mission, and the impact of nuclear weapons on warfare. The conversation also touches on the importance of educatin...

In this episode, Adam interviews Pranay Vaddi , who shares his experiences working at the National Security Council (NSC) and his insights into nuclear policy and arms control. Vaddi discusses the daily operations at the NSC, the challenges of elevating nuclear issues within the government, and the importance of collaboration among various agencies. He also reflects on the evolution of the NSC, th...

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam engages with Paul Amato, a seasoned expert in nuclear deterrence policy. They discuss the evolving landscape of nuclear strategy, the importance of education and leadership in nuclear discussions, and the challenges faced in communicating the significance of nuclear deterrence. Amato emphasizes the need for modernization of nuclear forces and the necessity of und...

In this compelling episode of NucleCast, Olena Kryzhanivska, a Ukrainian policy analyst and senior editor at the NATO Association of Canada explores the ongoing war in Ukraine, offering a deeply informed and personal perspective on the conflict’s origins, evolution, and global implications. Olena traces the roots of the war back through centuries of Russian imperialism, Soviet oppression, and the...

In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther speaks with Dena Volovar , president of Bechtel's Nuclear Security and Environment Global Business Unit . They discuss Bechtel's extensive role in national security, particularly in managing operations at NNSA labs, and the company's commitment to nuclear power as a sustainable energy solution. Dena shares insights on the challenges faced in nuclear...

In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther welcomes retired Lieutenant General Jim Dawkins, now Executive Vice President and COO of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions. Together, they explore the pivotal role of the Savannah River Site in America’s nuclear enterprise—from its origins in the Manhattan Project to its current missions in tritium production and plutonium pit manufacturing. Dawkins s...

In this episode of NucleCast, Jim Howe interviews Brian D'Andrea, CEO of TechSource, discussing the company's significant role in supporting America's nuclear security enterprise. They explore TechSource's growth, employee ownership, and the importance of retaining critical skills in the nuclear field. Brian shares insights into the company's project management approach, workforce development init...

James Ragland from the Defense Nuclear Weapons School (DNWS) shares the school's history, mission, and the various courses it offers. He talks about the evolution of the school's focus from Cold War-era nuclear weapons to contemporary threats, the types of students who attend, and the unique courses available, including specialized training for first responders. Ragland also highlights the importa...

Major General (Ret.) Rick Evans shares the history and significance of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and the United States Strategic Command (STRATCOM), focusing on the evolution from Building 500 to the new Command and Control Facility (C2F). The conversation covers the historical context of SAC, the transition to STRATCOM, the necessity for a new facility, funding challenges, and the operation...

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam speaks with Dr. Tom Karako from the Center for Strategic and International Studies about the Golden Dome initiative, a response to increasing air and missile threats. They discuss the initiative's purpose, its funding structure, and the importance of missile defense in national security. The conversation also covers the role of space in missile defense, critiques...

Dr. Stephen Nagy discusses Japan's strategic positioning in a complex geopolitical landscape, particularly in relation to the U.S.-China rivalry. He explores Japan's economic ties with China, the challenges posed by regional security threats, and the evolving strategies Japan is employing to navigate these issues. The conversation delves into Japan's historical pacifism, the potential for nuclear...

General VanHerck, former commander of U.S. Northern Command, shares his insights on deterrence, homeland defense, and the evolving threats facing the United States. He emphasizes the importance of cyber awareness, missile defense, and the need for a layered approach to national security. He also stresses the significance of relationships with allies and partners, the future of space defense, and t...

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam interviews Tom Summers, the acting chairman of the Defense Nuclear Facility Safety Board (DNFSB). They discuss the DNFSB's mission to ensure safety in nuclear operations, the balance between safety and mission accomplishment, the challenges of aging infrastructure, and the board's commitment to modernization and technological advancements. Tom emphasizes the impo...

Angela Sheffield, Director of Digital and AI Programs at SAIC, joins Adam to discuss the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into nuclear command and control (NC3) systems. They explore the challenges, opportunities, and the evolving landscape of AI technology in the context of national security. Angela emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific applications of AI, the need fo...

Dr. Satoru Nagao discusses Japan's strategic views on the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in relation to China and the United States. The conversation explores Japan's concerns about China's growing influence, the importance of the Quad alliance, and the potential for Japan to consider nuclear capabilities in response to regional threats. Dr. Nagao emphasizes Japan's commitment to the US allianc...

Jim Petrosky discusses the critical need for resilient energy infrastructure in the face of potential threats like EMP attacks in this episode. He explores the lessons learned from Europe's energy grid modernization, the future of nuclear power, and the challenges of public perception and political will surrounding nuclear energy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of small modular reactor...

In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther and guest Rebecca Grant discuss the advancements in stealth technology , focusing on the B-21 Raider and the implications of Chinese military developments. They explore the dynamics of air power between the US and China, the importance of pilot proficiency, and the future of sixth-generation aircraft. The conversation emphasizes the need for the US t...