NIDS Knowledge

by The National Institute for Deterrence Studies

NIDS Knowledge is a weekly broadcast of the National Institute for Deterrence Studies (NIDS) where we want to strengthen national security, preserve peace, and help you Think Deterrence! The show informs the public on key deterrence topics and develops critical thinking using ~9 minute lessons from the team of experts in NIDS.

Podcast episodes

  • Season 3

  • The Hypothetical Nuclear Strike on Cheyenne Mountain & The Future of Missile Defense

    The Hypothetical Nuclear Strike on Cheyenne Mountain & The Future of Missile Defense

    In this conversation, host Aaron Holland discusses the hypothetical scenario of a nuclear strike on Cheyenne Mountain, a critical military installation. He explores the catastrophic implications of such an event, emphasizing the strategic vulnerabilities it would expose and outlines necessary improvements to the U.S. missile defense systems, including advanced interceptors, enhanced sensor networks, and better integration with allies. He also highlights the potential of directed energy weapons as a revolutionary approach to missile defense, advocating for continued investment in research and development to maintain deterrence and national security.

  • Real Space Strategy: Teddy Roosevelt, Mahan, and the Panama Canal: Lessons for Spacepower 

    Real Space Strategy: Teddy Roosevelt, Mahan, and the Panama Canal: Lessons for Spacepower 

    Host, Christopher Stone and Dr. Coyote Smith explore the historical significance of the Panama Canal and its implications for modern space strategy. Coyote discusses the influence of naval strategist Alfred Thayer Mahan on the canal's construction and its relevance to contemporary geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding choke points and national security. The discussion transitions to the future of the Space Force, emphasizing the need for a maritime approach to space operations and the importance of resource harvesting in the context of great power competition.

  • Nuclear Rightsizing: Determining How Many Nukes the U.S. Actually Needs

    Nuclear Rightsizing: Determining How Many Nukes the U.S. Actually Needs

    In this episode of NIDS Knowledge, host Joe Buff overviews how America should properly analyze setting the size of our nuclear deterrence arsenal. Factors include sound risk management, flexibility of yields and delivery options, and covering worst case scenarios where China, Russia, and North Korea pool their nukes for aggression.

  • Deterrence Down Under: Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)

    Deterrence Down Under: Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)

    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. https://researchcentre.army.gov.au/library/occasional-papers/small-aircraft-sizeable-threats

  • Real Space Strategy: Greenland, the Arctic, and American Space Power

    Real Space Strategy: Greenland, the Arctic, and American Space Power

    Christopher Stone interviews David Marsh and they explore the strategic importance of the Arctic region, particularly Greenland, in the context of national security and space operations. David discusses the historical significance of the Arctic, the current geopolitical landscape involving great powers like Russia and China, and the implications of Greenland's potential independence. The dialogue emphasizes the need for the U.S. to maintain a strong presence in the Arctic, the importance of international partnerships, and the necessity of securing vital resources in the face of competition. The views of the host and the guests do not represent any organizations they may be affiliated with. https://spacenews.com/why-the-space-community-should-care-about-arctic-geopolitics/