NucleCast

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 the Alsos Mission in World War II, the transition from military-led intelligence to civilian agencies, and the expanding role of organizations like the Department of Energy and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. We also examine how advances in nuclear forensics have strengthened attribution and nonproliferation efforts, while highlighting the challenges posed by emerging technologies and evolving threat environments.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 explains what setbacks mean—and do not mean—for Tehran’s long‑term ambitions. The conversation explores Iran’s ability to rebuild its program, timelines for potential weaponization, and the risks posed by highly enriched uranium stockpiles and deeply buried enrichment facilities.The discussion also examines Iran’s strategic motivations, regime survival calculus, and historical lessons from cases like North Korea, offering insight into future proliferation risks and the challenges facing U.S. and allied efforts to prevent a nuclear‑armed Iran.Andrea is an expert on nuclear weapons proliferation and counterproliferation, open-source proliferation and policy analysis, and strategic commodity trafficking. Andrea has extensively researched Iran’s nuclear program, including its history, the regime’s proliferation efforts and technical advances, and diplomatic agreements. She is the co-author of five books on nuclear proliferation and is frequently cited by the media.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 increasingly complex threats.The conversation explores Iranian drone and missile activity in the Middle East, the role of systems such as THAAD, Patriot, and counter‑UAS, and the challenges of sustaining and reconstituting missile defense capabilities at scale. Lt Gen Karbler also offers insights into the Golden Dome concept for homeland missile defense, emerging future threats, and what deterrence requires in an era of precision missiles, massed drones, and rapid technological diffusion.For nearly 37 years, Dan served our nation in a variety of positions in the United States and around the world. An expert in Air and Missile Defense and Space Operations, he has extensive experience in effectively leading large and complex military commands, conducting operations, requirements and capability development, test and evaluation, and budget formulation. Prior to retiring from the Army as a Lieutenant General, he led the U.S. Army’s Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), a globally dispersed organization across 23 locations and 11 time zones responsible for providing homeland and regional air and missile defense and space operations. During that time, Space and Missile Defense Command was named “The Army’s Best Place to Work” in 2022 and 2023. Since retiring, Dan has joined the Center for Security and International Studies (CSIS) as a senior advisor to the Missile Defense Project and has been a frequent contributor on national security matters to Merit Street News. He sits on the advisory board for TCOM and was recently appointed to the board for the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC). During the past year, Dan served as a technical advisor and actor in the upcoming movie, “A House of Dynamite.” Dan has a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College, a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Benedictine College, and a Bachelor’s Degree from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 the President’s powers of self‑defense, Congress’s constitutional role in declaring war, and how the War Powers Resolution of 1973 has shaped (and complicated) modern U.S. military action. From “operations less than war” to undeclared conflicts and contested legal justifications, Rudesill explains how legal gray areas have expanded over time—and why the rule of law remains essential to maintaining democratic accountability and global stability. This episode offers a clear, rigorous look at how law, power, and nuclear‑era decision‑making intersect in moments of crisis.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 explores high‑stakes scenarios for Iran’s future—from regime survival to the risks of collapse or civil war—while unpacking the internal pressures facing the Islamic Republic, including public trauma, protests, and economic strain. Nader also addresses the roles of the United States, Israel, and regional actors, and offers a candid assessment of why overthrowing the regime would be extraordinarily difficult.Throughout the episode, listeners gain insight into Iranian public sentiment, misconceptions about U.S.–Iran relations, and the strategic calculations that will influence how long this conflict may last. This is a clear-eyed discussion of one of the most consequential security challenges facing global stability today.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 control, while weighing the potential benefits against the serious risks of integration. The conversation examines AI’s capabilities and limitations, the ethical and strategic challenges it presents, and what its use could mean for nuclear deterrence and autonomous weapons.She emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation with safety, responsibility, and strategic stability as AI becomes more deeply embedded in modern defense systems.Stacie Pettyjohn is a senior fellow and director of the Defense Program at the Center for a New American Security. A leading expert on U.S. defense strategy, force planning, airpower, and wargaming, her work focuses on the future of warfare, including artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, drones, and nuclear deterrence in a multipolar world. Previously, she served on the Joint Staff, chaired a Defense Department advisory subcommittee on force integration, and spent more than a decade at RAND Corporation leading major studies and defense wargames. Her work has appeared in Foreign Affairs, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and other major outlets. She holds a PhD from the University of Virginia.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 of the expiration of the New START treaty, debating whether the future points toward renewed arms control frameworks or an emerging arms race. Host Adam Lowther and Williams dive into the role of hydro nuclear testing and stockpile stewardship in maintaining confidence in nuclear forces, as well as why a credible nuclear deterrent remains central to national security.Throughout the episode, they unpack the enduring importance of the nuclear triad, the challenges of nuclear proliferation, and how deterrence strategies must adapt in an increasingly competitive strategic environment.Colonel Derek “Kiwi” Williams is a strategic planner in the Plans and Policy Directorate at U.S. Strategic Command. A U.S. Air Force Weapons School graduate, he has extensive experience in bomber operations, nuclear planning, and deterrence strategy, including leadership roles at Air Force Global Strike Command, the Air Staff, and as Director of Operations for the 23d Bomb Squadron. He is the founder of the School of Advanced Nuclear Deterrence Studies, a former Air Force Fellow at Sandia National Laboratories, and a fellow at the National Institute for Deterrence Studies. Colonel Williams holds advanced degrees in defense and strategic studies and aerospace engineering, with additional certifications in nuclear weapons policy, effects, and operations.Episode Correction: NNSA does Hydrodynamic experiments (weapon representative geometries) LLNL's Contained Firing Facility (CFF).Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 dynamics. Christopher Stone offers a compelling argument against the notion of isolationism, emphasizing the enduring importance of strategic encirclement and the evolving geopolitical landscape. This episode provides a deep dive into the strategic considerations shaping U.S. defense policy, with insights into the roles of China, Russia, and other global players. Christopher Stone is a prominent figure in space policy, currently serving as a Senior Fellow for Space Deterrence at the National Institute for Deterrence Studies, where he focuses on research related to space warfare strategies and deterrence, particularly in the context of great power competition; he previously held a position as a Special Assistant to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy at the Pentagon, giving him significant experience in the field of U.S. space policy development at a high level.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 to contain Chinese and Russian influence in the Arctic, Bob unpacks the real reasons Greenland matters—its location, resources, and the growing geopolitical contest. You’ll discover how Arctic nations are competing for dominance, why China’s icebreakers signal a serious threat, and how the U.S. plans to boost its defenses without breaking NATO.We break down the myths surrounding President Trump’s stance on Greenland, revealing that hyperbole and strategic signaling drive much of the chatter. Plus, insights into how Greenland’s potential independence could reshape regional power dynamics and why the U.S. relationship with Denmark remains vital.If you care about national security, Arctic geopolitics, or the future of NATO, this episode is essential listening. Bob’s straightforward analysis cuts through the noise—arming you with the knowledge to understand why Greenland is much more than a distant ice patch, but a battleground of influence that could define the next decade of global power.Robert Peters is a Senior Research Fellow for Strategic Deterrence in The Heritage Foundation’s Allison Center for National Security. For many years, Peters served as a Senior Research Fellow at National Defense University’s Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction, where he focused on nuclear deterrence issues, countering weapons of mass destruction, and counterproliferation. In the first Obama Administration, Peters served as the Special Advisor for Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, where he worked on the New START nuclear arms control treaty, the 2010 Nuclear Posture Review, and the 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review. In addition, Peters held positions at Northrop Grumman and the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies.A prolific writer, Peters’ published works include examinations of the impact of Chinese nuclear expansion and Russian withdrawal from arms control, the prospect for future arms control, the need for a new nuclear posture review, and the mission to eliminate North Korean weapons of mass destruction.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 challenges of operating in a congested space environment, and the necessity of international cooperation to establish norms for space safety and security.The discussions also explore the strategic mindsets of adversaries like China and Russia, noting their differing approaches to space warfare. Leonard emphasizes the need for the U.S. to adapt its strategies to these threats, highlighting the importance of understanding space as a critical enabler and potential vulnerability. The conversations conclude with Leonard's wishes for greater public awareness of space's importance, improved U.S. strategic innovation, and easier access to space, drawing parallels to historical expansions like the railroads in the American West.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 and adaptability in military doctrine. He shares personal anecdotes from his deployments, highlighting the emotional toll of war and the disconnect between military operations and strategic outcomes. Dr. Zweibelson's book, "Bad War Stories," serves as a critique of the glorified narratives often portrayed in Hollywood, contrasting them with the harsh realities faced by soldiers. He argues that many military professionals are trapped in outdated thinking, which hinders effective planning and execution. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of nuclear strategy in light of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, stressing the importance of curiosity and innovation in military institutions.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 unique position as a democracy in a region of authoritarianism. The discussion also touches on the historical context of Taiwan's development, the challenges it faces, and the potential paths forward for its future.Dr. John F. Copper is the Stanley J. Buckman Distinguished Professor of International Studies (emeritus) and author of more than 40 books on Asia and international affairs. His newest book is Taiwan's Presidents: Profiles of the Majestic Six (Routledge, 2024).00:00 Introduction to Taiwan's Complex History02:11 Current Geopolitical Tensions and Perspectives 17:07 Historical Context of Taiwan's Identity26:09 Wishes for Taiwan's Future RelationsSocials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

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 Australia's reliance on the US and the need for a more self-reliant defense strategy as the geopolitical dynamics shift. The discussion culminates in White's wishes for clearer strategic understanding and cooperation among nations in addressing the challenges posed by China.Hugh White AO is Emeritus Professor of Strategic Studies at the Australian National University. His work focuses primarily on Australian strategic and defence policy, Asia-Pacific security issues, and global strategic affairs especially as they influence Australia and the Asia-Pacific.He has served as an intelligence analyst with the Office of National Assessments, as a journalist with the Sydney Morning Herald, as a senior adviser on the staffs of Defence Minister Kim Beazley and Prime Minister Bob Hawke, and as a senior official in the Department of Defence, where from 1995 to 2000 he was Deputy Secretary for Strategy and Intelligence, and as the first Director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI).In the 1970s he studied philosophy at Melbourne and Oxford Universities. He was the principal author of Australia’s 2000 Defence White Paper.His major publications include Power Shift: Australia’s future between Washington and Beijing, [2010], The China Choice: Why America should share power, [2012], Without America: Australia’s future in the New Asia [2017], and How to defend Australia [2019]Chapters00:00 Introduction to Australian Security Perspectives02:14 The Rise of China and Its Implications05:45 Australia's Strategic Dilemmas09:28 Military Dynamics in the US-China Rivalry13:44 The Role of Allies in Regional Security19:36 China's Global Ambitions and Regional Responses24:07 Nuclear Deterrence in a Changing Landscape29:28 Wishes for Future Strategic ClaritySocials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

This is part two of a discussion featuring Dr. Byron Ristvet. The episode delves into the intricacies of nuclear testing, covering topics such as the history and types of nuclear tests conducted by the United States, Russia, and China. Byron shares insights into the technical and strategic aspects of nuclear testing, including the development and safety testing of nuclear weapons, the evolution of testing methods, and the challenges faced in maintaining nuclear readiness. The conversation also touches on the importance of deterrence and the current state of nuclear testing infrastructure.Socials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

In this episode of NucleCast, Adam talks with Dr. Byron Ristvet to discuss the complexities of nuclear testing, its historical context, and the current state of nuclear readiness. They delve into the types of nuclear tests, the role of various laboratories, and the controversial history surrounding Rocky Flats. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding nuclear policy and the implications of testing in today's geopolitical landscape.Currently, Dr, Ristvet is a consultant to Sandia National Laboratory and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for studies on nuclear test detection, and through Keystone International and MSTS, a consultant to LANL, DoE IN-1 and NNSA/NFO. He is a Senior Mentor in Sandia’s Weapons Intern and Professional Development programs, and low yield nuclear monitoring research. Prior to his semi-retirement in February 2017, Dr. Ristvet was a senior subject matter expert (SME) to DTRA’s Research and Development Directorate in the areas of nuclear and conventional weapons effects and testing, hard and deeply-buried-target characterization and defeat, counter-terrorism, cooperative threat reduction, knowledge preservation, nuclear test readiness, and to the Defense Threat Reduction Information Analysis Center. Prior to the underground nuclear testing (UGT) moratorium in 1992, he was the UGT containment scientist for the Defense Nuclear Agency. Based on his experience, he is an advisor to the U.S. intelligence community on foreign nuclear programs. Dr. Ristvet had a key role in DoD’s Cooperative Threat Reduction efforts with the Russian Federation nuclear laboratories and the Kazakhstan National Nuclear Center. He is currently an Octant Associates consultant for DTRA nuclear proliferation prevention activities at the Semipalatinsk Test Site in Kazakhstan. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nuclear Testing and Its Importance01:20 Understanding Nuclear Testing: Types and History05:38 Current State of Nuclear Testing and Readiness09:05 The Role of Laboratories in Nuclear Weapons Development13:34 Debunking Myths: The Rocky Flats Controversy18:27 Types of Nuclear Testing Conducted19:54 Key Takeaways and Future ConsiderationsSocials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]