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The NIDS View

by The National Institute for Deterrence Studies

Season 4

186 - Europe’s Missile Renaissance and the Future of NATO Deterrence

In this episode of The NIDS View, Curtis and Jim examine Europe's growing drive to strengthen its own deterrent capabilities amid Russia's war in Ukraine and a future NATO 3.0. They explore whether Europe is moving toward greater strategic autonomy while remaining anchored within the NATO alliance. The discussion highlights Europe's emerging missile renaissance, including the development of new long-range strike capabilities, expanded defense industrial capacity, and investments in advanced non-nuclear military technologies. The conversation further examines how U.S. military innovation—including low-cost, high-precision weapons, and long-range conventional strike capabilities—is reshaping the American character of modern warfare. As allies reassess the relationship between conventional and nuclear deterrence, the hosts explore the implications for escalation management, strategic stability, and the credibility of deterrence in an increasingly complex and contested security environment. https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

185 - Understanding America’s Nuclear Arsenal: The Story Behind "Learning to Love the Bomb"

In this episode of The NIDS View, NIDS welcomes Curtis McGiffin and Dr. Adam Lowther, co-authors of Learning to Love the Bomb: Understanding the American Nuclear Arsenal, for a wide-ranging discussion on the history, science, strategy, and people behind the U.S. nuclear enterprise. Drawing on the expertise of leading deterrence professionals, they explain why a deeper understanding of America's nuclear arsenal is essential for policymakers, military leaders, and citizens alike. The conversation explores the motivations for writing the book, the operational realities of the U.S. nuclear enterprise, and the evolving strategic challenges posed by China, Russia, and North Korea. McGiffin and Lowther also discuss the role of physics and history in shaping deterrence theory, the importance of strategic stability, and how bridging technical, policy, and military perspectives can strengthen deterrence in an increasingly dangerous world. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to the Book and Its Impact 03:07 – Why Write Learning to Love the Bomb? 06:20 – Understanding the Nuclear Enterprise and Its Components 11:40 – Expert Contributions and Their Significance 15:28 – The Physics of Nuclear Weapons Explained 23:42 – Strategic Threats and the Future of Deterrence 27:51 – Recommendations and Strategic Outlook 37:30 – Reflections on the Book's Contributions and Audience Where to purchase the book: https://www.cambriapress.com/pub.cfm?bid=1207 https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Love-Bomb-Understanding-American/dp/1638573964

184 - The Evolution of the B-1 Bomber: A Strategic Perspective with Ken Katz

Jim and Curtis sit down with aerospace engineer Ken Katz to explore the remarkable evolution of the B-1 bomber and what it teaches us about deterrence, innovation, and adaptability. From the Cold War origins of the B-1 program to its transformation into a highly effective conventional strike platform, Katz examines the technological, political, and strategic forces that shaped one of America's most iconic aircraft. The discussion also explores the broader role of bombers in the U.S. strategic triad, the impact of stealth and radar cross-section design, and why digital systems have become essential to maintaining relevance in an ever-changing threat environment. Along the way, we revisit lessons from historic aircraft programs such as the B-70 Valkyrie and B-52 Stratofortress, discussing how decisions made decades ago continue to influence military modernization efforts today. Kenneth P. Katz was commissioned as an Air Force officer through ROTC and served on active duty as a flight test engineer at Edwards AFB, testing bombers and cruise missiles. After completing military service, he worked for the Boeing Company, flight testing the V-22 Osprey. Since then, he has worked in a variety of information technology and aerospace engineering positions, retiring from Collins Aerospace in 2025. Ken is the author of three books about military aircraft, with his most recent book being "The Supersonic BONE: A Development & Operational History of the B-1 Bomber". He is a prolific podcast host, currently doing the "Supersonic BONE" series for Authentic Media. www.thinkdeterrence.com

183 - Resolve, NATO, and Emerging Technology: News in Review – June 2026

In this episode of The NIDS View, Jim and Curtis analyze the June 2026 deterrence and security developments, including Sen. Deb Fischer's call for greater nuclear investment, Finland's move to repeal its nuclear ban, and B-21 shelters. They explore how allies and adversaries are adapting and emphasize the importance of national resolve, civic education, and history in credible deterrence. The discussion highlights that military power alone isn't enough; values, identity, and willingness to defend are crucial. The hosts also examine emerging technologies—AI, quantum computing, space, and drones—and their impact on military strategies, drawing lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict and considering future security implications. The episode links resolve, capability, and credibility as key elements of effective deterrence. Drawing lessons from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the hosts explore the implications of rapidly advancing technology for homeland security and future conflict. Whether you're interested in nuclear policy, alliance dynamics, technological innovation, or the foundations of national power, this episode connects the dots between resolve, capability, and credibility—the enduring pillars of effective deterrence. www.thinkdeterrence.com

182 - Dark Eagle and the Future of Hypersonic Deterrence

In this episode of The NIDS View, we examine the strategic implications of emerging hypersonic weapons, focusing on the U.S. Army’s Dark Eagle missile. Joined by missile and space warfare expert Chris Stone, the conversation explores how hypersonic capabilities are reshaping deterrence, escalation dynamics, and the future of conflict. From the engineering challenges behind these systems to their potential role in both conventional and nuclear scenarios, this discussion highlights the complex balance between capability and restraint. The episode also considers how adversaries monitor and respond to these developments, and what it all means for strategic stability in an increasingly contested security and political environment. www.ThinkDeterrence.com

181 - The Future of U.S. Bombers: B‑21 Raider and Strategic Deterrence

In this episode, Jim and Curtis examine the strategic role of the U.S. bomber fleet, focusing on the B‑21 Raider and other ongoing bomber modernization. They discuss how bombers support nuclear deterrence, enable flexible strategic signaling, and remain a critical part of the nuclear triad’s future thanks to their successful conventional use over the skies of Iran. https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

180 - Can Europe Go Nuclear? Five Strategic Paths Forward

In this episode of The NIDS View, Jim sits down with Bill Murphy, Senior Fellow and Cofounder at NIDS, to examine Europe’s evolving approach to nuclear deterrence in an increasingly complex and multipolar threat environment. As Russia’s nuclear posture grows more assertive and China’s influence expands, the conversation explores how European leaders are reassessing their reliance on U.S. extended deterrence. Petrosky and Murphy break down five key options Europe is considering—from strengthening NATO nuclear sharing to pursuing greater strategic autonomy—and analyze the risks, trade-offs, and implications for transatlantic security. They also address challenges related to command and control, non-proliferation, and the credibility of U.S. commitments. 🔔 Subscribe for more expert discussions on deterrence and global security ▶️ Watch now to understand Europe’s nuclear future and what it means for NATO https://securityconference.org/en/publications/special-editions/mind-the-deterrence-gap/ www.ThinkDeterrence.com

179 - Decoding China’s Octagonal Missile Bases: Strategy, Signaling, and Scale

In this episode of The NIDS View, Jim returns to join Curtis as they explore China’s ongoing nuclear buildup, including newly identified octagonal facilities and 80 launch pads near the Hami missile fields. The conversation explores what these developments reveal about Beijing’s strategic intentions, including the concept of dynamic parity and the role of ambiguity in deterrence. The hosts unpack the unique octagonal design of China’s missile bases, discussing possible engineering rationales, command-and-control considerations, and the implications of modular construction. They also assess how China’s expanding infrastructure could impact nuclear stability, missile defense planning, and target distribution in future conflicts. https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

178 - May 2026 Deterrence News in Review: Strategic Signals and Nuclear Realities

Curtis and Kirk Fansher provide a May 2026 deterrence news roundup on developments shaping strategic stability. They discuss Russia's nuclear exercises in Belarus, its successful SARMAT ICBM test, and its third ORESHNIK missile attack on Kyiv. They also explore NATO's evolving deterrence and how countries use drills, modernization, and dual-use attacks to send signals and manage escalation. Articles: https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/05/19/nuclear-war-exercises-begin/7881779178972/ https://www.cbsnews.com/news/russia-test-launch-missile-satan-ii-calls-putin-worlds-most-powerful/ https://militarnyi.com/en/news/russia-two-oreshnik-missiles-first-donetsk/ https://thinkdeterrence.com/ Like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

177 - The Future of NATO: Stay CALM or Carry On?

What does the future of NATO look like in an era of evolving threats and shifting alliances? In this episode, NIDS Senior Fellow, Kirk Fansher joins Curtis to review and assess Hans Petter Midttun's proposed CALM (Coalition of Like Minds) concept to bolster Euro-deterrence and NATO credibility. Arguing that "NATO no longer guarantees Europe's security," CALM seeks to bring the more "enthusiastic" allies (and Ukraine) into a more credible and formidable group that would be relieved of NATO politics and independent of American support. The conversation explores how nuclear deterrence continues to underpin NATO’s stability, while raising critical questions about alliance cohesion, U.S. leadership, and Europe’s path toward greater strategic autonomy. As the war in Ukraine reshapes the security environment, this episode offers a timely and insightful look at how NATO must adapt to remain credible, unified, and effective in deterring future threats. https://euromaidanpress.com/2025/12/22/the-alternative-to-nato-a-coalition-of-like-minded-european-countries/ https://euromaidanpress.com/2026/05/04/nato-is-dead-meet-calm/ https://thinkdeterrence.com/ like and follow us – The NIDS View: https://media.rss.com/nuclearview/feed.xml LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkdeterrence X.com: https://x.com/thinkdeterrence YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGa4dcPqONWzjmbuZMOBHQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/NIDSthinkdeterrence Global Security Review: https://globalsecurityreview.com Our Free Events: https://thinkdeterrence.com/events/

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