Facing Coming Storms: Talking International Defence – Détails, épisodes et analyse

How are shifting global tensions and new technological threats changing the way the world views war? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Peter Apps talks with with Major General Andrew Sharpe, Director of the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, Rocco Santurri, a former U.S. Army active-duty officer and now reservist serving with UN forces in Korea as well as a global affairs consultant, and Victoria Mackarness, a defence and communications expert, offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of modern warfare.

We discuss the shift from counterinsurgency tactics to conventional warfare, the growing threat of cyberattacks, and the widening gap between military and civilian societies. Drawing on their extensive experience, our guests explore how military strategies are adapting to challenges such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the potential for escalation in regions like the Korean Peninsula.

This conversation also explores the complexities of deterrence, how the U.S. and UK military forces are preparing for large-scale combat, and how these nations are addressing future threats. As global tensions rise, we reflect on whether the public truly understands the risks and the changing nature of conflict in an increasingly unpredictable world.

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

Curious about the world of government, military, and global decisions, where power weighs a ton yet slips away? In this Facing Coming Storms episode, we’re joined by Ari Ratner, ex-Obama State Department insider turned D.C. sceptic; Liisa Past, Estonia’s former cybersecurity chief and NATO pro; and Brigadier Robbie Boyd, retired British officer with NATO and UN battle scars.

We uncover the gritty truth of crisis leadership—creaking systems, gut-wrenching calls, and the razor’s edge of slashing red tape without sparking chaos. From D.C. to Tallinn to Brussels, it’s a no-filter take on uncertainty, rigid institutions, and humility as our last stand.

Key moments

• 10:51 - Military Perspectives on Governance
• 15:20 - The Balance of Military and Civilian Roles
• 22:27 - Navigating Bureaucracy in Government
• 40:40 - Power Dynamics and Insecurity in Washington
• 45:03 - Understanding Context in Global Governance
• 53:41 - Hope and Challenges in Military Reform

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we explore the Baltic states—Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia—as NATO’s frontline amid Russia’s growing shadow.

Joined by Oliver Moody, Liis Mure, Aliide Naylor, and George Barros, we unpack the region’s turbulent history, current defences, and the human stakes. From Soviet echoes to NATO drones, we explore     how these nations face a resurgent Russia, with insights on military shifts, societal resolve, and the looming global flashpoint.

Key moments

• 0:37 - The Importance of the Baltic Region
• 7:12 - NATO's Role in Baltic Security
• 15:14 - Russia's Military Strategy
• 23:54 - European Defence Industry Challenges
• 35:33 - Addressing Russian Influence
• 42:39 - Historical Context and Current Tensions
• 45:48 - Preparing for Future Conflicts

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

How are the U.S. Marines getting ready for a chaotic, brutal battlefield? In this episode, we sit down with Captain Nicholas Royer, a simulation officer from the Second Marine Expeditionary Unit, to talk about “Downrange”—a tabletop war game that’s changing how Marines train. Using 3D-printed figures and tough, realistic rules, it throws junior Marines into the deep end of modern combat. They face tough calls, like risking a radio call for artillery support that could tip off enemy drones circling above.

Captain Royer walks us through the shift from fighting insurgents to preparing for heavyweights like Russia or China. We dig into the human side of these simulations—Marines grappling with rising casualties when rescue helicopters can’t swoop in, or the civilian toll of their decisions. From stretching limited anti-tank rounds to working with both dedicated and unreliable partner forces, this episode looks at how the USMC approaches modern warfighting with a view to maintaining deterrence – or winning on the battlefield if deterrence fails.

Key moments

• 1:23 - Captain Nicholas Royer's Journey
• 4:41 - Designing Tactical Training Games
• 10:16 - Preparing for High-End Conflict
• 22:11 - Strategies for Future Conflicts
• 31:03 - Deterrence and Preparing for War

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

Can Europe hold its ground if the U.S. pulls back?

This week, we’re talking with Professor Sten Rynning, a NATO expert from the Danish Institute of Advanced Study and a lecturer at the NATO Defence College. We’re talking Donald Trump’s impact, the state of European unity, and whether NATO, the EU, and its members can get their act together fast enough.

This is a no-filter look at a world where old rules, no longer apply.

Key moments

• 4:12 - Current European Security Concerns
• 7:28 - The Evolution of European Defence Structures
• 13:42 - The Future of Military Alliances
• 15:22 - Germany and France's Defence Roles
• 22:04 - The Need for European Self-Sufficiency
• 28:29 - Preparing for a Less U.S.-Dependent Defence

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

Ukraine’s war is shifting fast—US support was halted temporarily, Russia's tank losses remain staggering European resolve is yet to be determined.

In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, we unpack it all with George Barros (Institute for Study of War), Iuliia Osmolovska (Globsec Kyiv), and ex-British Army officer Nicholas Drummond.

We explore Kyiv’s gritty fight, America’s exit shockwave, and Europe’s do-or-die moment. Peacekeepers? NATO rearming? Nuclear sharing? The stakes are sky-high. Is this Europe’s wake-up call—or Russia’s chance to dominate?

Key moments

• 10:50 - Perspectives from Ukraine
• 18:26 - The Bigger Picture of Defence
• 21:23 - Future of European Military Cooperation
• 24:49 - Ukraine's Defence Strategy
• 27:40 - The Complexities of US Foreign Policy
• 36:38 - The Importance of Security Guarantees
• 48:38 - Technology vs. Manpower in Warfare

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, I’m joined by Professor Nikolas Gvosdev of the US Naval War College, a leading expert in European and Russian international relations. Two months into 2025, with a new US president in office, we explore the shifting global order as America rethinks its traditional role.

Nikolas offers sharp insights into how allies are adapting, while rivals like China wield their technological and shipbuilding strength to tip the scales. We discuss Ukraine’s defensive resilience, Europe’s push to lead—especially on Ukraine—and growing American scepticism about funding global security.

Key moments

• 7:45 - US Policy Shift: Insights from Munich Security Conference
• 20:36 - Allies Adapting to US Retrenchment
• 27:48 - The 'Iron Dome': A New Era of US Defence Strategy
• 31:37 - Germany and Japan: Emerging Power Dynamics
• 36:44 - Ukraine’s Future Role in European Security
• 57:47 - Strategic Focus for Military Leaders

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, I am joined by Hayat Alvi, Associate Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College. We explore the constantly changing dynamics of the Middle East and its impact on global defence. With over 18 years of experience teaching military and government personnel, Hayat shares valuable insights into the region’s complex political, economic, and cultural landscape.

We explore topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the power balance within the Gulf states, and the shifts in Syria after the Assad regime’s collapse. Hayat also emphasises the importance of critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture in military education.

Key moments

• 5:18 - The Complexities of Regional Dynamics
• 13:05 - Historical Context of Peace Agreements
• 27:41 - Iran's Geopolitical Weakening
• 31:34 - Shifts in Global Alliances
• 35:26 - The Collapse of the Assad Regime
• 42:34 - Lessons for Military Leadership

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, we’re joined by General Sir Nick Carter, one of the most influential British Army commanders of recent times. From commanding a battalion in Kosovo to leading as Chief of Defence Staff during some of the most pivotal moments in recent history, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the withdrawal from Afghanistan, General Carter offers a personal look at his remarkable leadership journey.

He shares the challenges of leading multinational operations, navigating the unpredictable terrains of recent wars, and adapting to the evolving threats of the 21st century. We also discuss the strategic power of storytelling, the complexities of military resource management, and what it truly means to lead at the highest level. It’s a conversation filled with insight, reflection, and invaluable lessons from someone who’s been at the heart of it all.

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

What does China’s growing military power mean for global stability? In this episode, experts former Rear Admiral Mike Studeman and Nigel Inkster discuss China’s rapid militarisation, its focus on Taiwan, and preparations for potential conflict. They explore China’s relationships with Russia and North Korea, and how these alliances are reshaping the global balance of power.

With China’s expanding nuclear arsenal and stronger military, this conversation examines the strategies and ideologies driving its rise. As China becomes a dominant global force, Mike and Nigel offer insights into how the West can adapt to stay competitive in this shifting world order.

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.