Episode 699 - September Midrats Free For All

Midrats

Summer is over, and it's time to focus on adult things once again.
If it is of interest to from the Pacific to the Red Sea to the Potomac River—we have you covered.
Showlinks:

• Royal Navy Ship Availability graphic
• CO USS John S. McCain relieved
• Egypt in Yemen Civil War 1960s/70s
• US Army Typhon (not Typhoon, I know) launcher
• Egypt's Interest in PRC Aircraft

Summary
The conversation discusses the current situation in the Red Sea and the challenges posed by the Houthi rebels and Iran. It explores the implications of inaction and the role of the US and other nations in addressing the issue. The conversation also touches on the need for international cooperation and the changing dynamics of naval power. Other topics mentioned include the relief of the CO of the USS John S. McCain and the future of the Navy. The conversation in this part focuses on the importance of icebreakers and ice-hardened vessels in the Arctic region, the need for a grand strategy and force planning, the role of unmanned systems in warfare, the significance of mine warfare, and the changing dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Takeaways

• The Red Sea is currently a volatile region due to the activities of the Houthi rebels and Iran's support for them.
• The international community, particularly the US and its allies, need to address the situation in the Red Sea to ensure the free flow of trade and maintain stability.
• There are challenges and risks involved in taking action, including the potential for a larger conflict with Iran.
• The role of the US Navy and its allies in maintaining the security of the seas is crucial, but there are limitations to what they can do.
• The changing dynamics of naval power, including the rise of China in the Arctic, pose additional challenges for the US Navy.
• There is a need for international cooperation and a clear strategy to address the issues in the Red Sea and other critical maritime regions.
• The lack of icebreakers and ice-hardened vessels in the Arctic region is a concern for national security and environmental protection.
• Unmanned systems, including drones and unmanned submarines, are becoming increasingly important in modern warfare.
• Mine warfare is a critical aspect of naval operations and can be a deterrent to enemy forces.
• The Eastern Mediterranean is experiencing changing dynamics with the involvement of Egypt, Turkey, and China.

Sound Bites

• "The Red Sea is worse than the Wild Wild West."
• "If we're going to pursue this vigorously, then we really have to go after Iran."
• "If not the US Navy, people will look towards the Royal Navy."
• "If we're going to do the guns and butter routine again, sometimes you ought to have guns and not just all butter."

Chapters

00:00: Introduction and Technical Difficulties
03:20: The Volatile Situation in the Red Sea
08:05: Challenges of Addressing the Conflict
15:25: The Role of Naval Power in Maritime Security
21:03: The Need for Investment in Naval Assets
31:02: China's Growing Presence in the Arctic
32:47: Icebreakers and Arctic Security
34:42: Grand Strategy and Countering Great Power Competition
40:14: Unmanned Systems in Modern Warfare
48:48: The Significance of Range in Defense and Offense
55:46: Mine Warfare and Naval Operations
59:26: Geopolitical Dynamics in the Eastern Mediterranean
01:01:24: China's Presence in Egypt and Regional Implications