In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by returning guest Dustan Hellwig to tackle a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of electronic warfare: how the community—AOC members and stakeholders—discuss EMSO needs and effects within a unified mathematical context to consolidate the various and potentially conflicting uses of the spectrum.

Ken and Dustan explore the importance of aligning terminology with a commander’s intent, with Dustan highlighting the role of machine learning technologies in translating this intent into mission-essential tasks, thereby enhancing understanding at every level of operation. But Dustan doesn’t just stick to theory; he also shares practical advice on how the different stakeholders in the EMSO space can find common ground—at least in terms of terminology—to make communication within the community more seamless.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of "From the Crow’s Nest," host Ken Miller sits down with Brian Clark, Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute. Together, they delve into the heart of the Pentagon’s latest debates and innovative reforms.

 

Clark unveils his compelling "Iron Triangle" proposal—a strategic framework highlighting relevant capability, operational concepts, and scalable impact—as a beacon to guide the Department of Defense through a labyrinth of challenges. This episode doesn't shy away from the gritty reality of transforming isolated case studies into sweeping institutional change. Clark also shares insights from a riveting conversation on how groundbreaking technologies are reshaping defense strategies, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest coming to you from AOC Europe 2024 in Oslo, Norway, host Ken Miller is joined by three special guests: Lieutenant Colonel Erik Bamford, Branch Chief of EW, Norwegian Armed Forces; Journalist and author, Dr. Tom Withington; and Duncan McCrory from the Department of War Studies at King’s College, UK. Together they discuss alliances and collaboration in supporting multi-domain electromagnetic warfare operations.

In this episode, podcast host Ken Miller sits with Mr. David Tremper, the Director of Electronic Warfare and the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. Ken and David discuss the acquisition of new EW capabilities across the military services in the FY 2022 Defense Budget, the growing emphasis on EMS Survivability, and the rise of collaborative systems using artificial intelligence and machine learning, and how these new systems are shaping our ability to achieve EMS superiority.  

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website.

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Northrop Grumman Corporation.

In this episode, Host Ken Miller recaps and shares excerpts from a conversation he had earlier with Mr. John Knowles, editor of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED). They cover a range of issues from the defense budget to JADC2, and some upcoming additions of the JED that are coming out in September. Ken also shares exciting news about upcoming From the Crows’ Nest episodes, including a sit down with Mr. David Weinberger, author of the book Everyday Chaos: Technology, Complexity, and How We’re Thriving in a New World of Possibility. 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website.

Modern warfare is becoming increasingly dependent on the Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS). All command and control, communications, ISR, precision guided munitions, GPS, and low observable (stealth) technology depend on the ability to control the EMS. Our competitors have recognized this and are manning, training, and equipping themselves to deny us freedom to act in the EMS. 

Often discounted simply as lightning bolts on PowerPoint, the EMS has long been neglected. In this special episode, we present to you coverage from the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum: Drink & Think on Moving Beyond Lighting Bolts On PowerPoint, an event hosted at AOC headquarters, in Alexandria, Virginia. We hear from Ken Miller, Director of Advocacy & Outreach at the Association of Old Crows, Scott Oliver, Director of the Board of Advisors at the RVJ Institute, Pat Flood, Senior National Security Policy Advisor at the U.S. House of Representatives. The event was moderated by Courtney Barno, Code Director of DC Agora. 

Ken and guests discuss why a whole nation approach is necessary to ensure freedom of action within the EMS at the time and place of our choosing. Necessary efforts range from renewed government policies and reinvigorated academic research, to leap-ahead industrial technologies. The EMS represents a giant opportunity space for warfighters, entrepreneurs, investors, technologists, researchers, and policymakers alike. 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website.

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Pacific Defense. 

Open systems architecture is changing the defense electronics market and business dynamics of the Department of Defense (DOD). Advancing software and hardware standards across DOD and military services is leading us to rethink the bridge that connects research & engineering (R&E) to acquisition. But challenges exist, including intellectual property rights, conformance, and architectural constraints early in development.  In this episode, Host Ken Miller is joined by Mr. Rodger Hosking from Mercury Systems and leader in the Sensor Open System Architecture (SOSA) Consortium; and Mr. Patrick Collier from the Aspen Consulting Group. We discuss these issues and challenges as DOD is set to release new standards later this summer. 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website.

The AOC thanks Northrop Grumman Corporation for sponsoring this episode.

In this episode, we’re exploring the complex implementation  of the Pentagon’s Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) vision and its impact on electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO). We’re joined by Brigadier General Charles R. “Rob” Parker,  Deputy Director J6 of The Joint Staff. Together, Host Ken Miller and Brigadier General Parker discuss the five key lines of effort and how they will transform the way we fight and win in future combat; the roles of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the evolution of decision-making across dimensions of C2; and how important JADC2 initiatives are addressed in the defense budget in FY 2022 and beyond. Brigadier General Parker helps us understand the challenges and opportunities the Pentagon faces as it pursues ADC2 as it advances the JADC2 mission.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

The AOC thanks Northrop Grumman Corporation for sponsoring this episode.

The national security community thrives on innovation. Today, we’re joined by Mr. Michael Madrid, Executive Director of the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum (DEF), to discuss how DEF brings entrepreneurs from around the country to build a culture of innovation together. Ken and Michael discuss leveraging cross-sector expertise to empower people and agencies to embrace new approaches, technologies, and strategies. They also explore how organizations like the AOC and DEF can work together to create enduring opportunities for today’s entrepreneurs.  

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website.

In this episode, we continue our series on the role of Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) in Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2). Host Ken Miller sits down with Jim Conroy of Northrop Grumman Corporation for an industry perspective on delivering capabilities that meet JADC2 requirements for speed, compatibility and commonality. Then, Ken is joined by Mr. Patrick Flood, Senior National Security Policy Advisor for Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02), a staff lead for the congressional Electromagnetic Warfare Working Group (EWWG).

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

The AOC thanks Northrop Grumman Corporation for sponsoring this episode.

In this special episode, we take you inside AOC's Cyber Electromagnetic Activities (CEMA) Conference that took place in-person, May 25-26, 2021. The theme of the conference was a “Focus on the Future – Multi-Domain Operations 2035 and Beyond,” and featured senior leaders throughout the Army discussing how to fight and win decisively against any adversary in a joint, multi-domain, high-intensity conflict through employment of CEMA capabilities.

Host Ken Miller sits down with several keynote speakers and industry partners in attendance at this two-day event, including the following:

[07:13] LTG Stephen Fogarty, Commanding General, Army Cyber Command  - 

[23:10] BG Robert Collins, PEO C3T

[43:26] COL Chad Bates, PhD, Special Assistant to the Commanding General, Army Cyber Command 

[58:36] Mr. David Tremper, SES, Director of EW, OSD, OUSD (A&S)

[1:11:41] COL Kevin Finch, Project Manager, Electronic Warfare and Cyber, PEO IEWS

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website.

The AOC thanks Pentek for sponsoring this episode.

Today, we explore the role of Congress in advancing Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations with Rep. James Langevin. Representative Langevin is Chair of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber Innovative Technologies and Information Systems (CITI). Ken Miller and Rep. Langevin specifically discuss the priority issues of the subcommittee and prospects for the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act. 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website.

The AOC thanks Northrop Grumman Corporation for sponsoring this episode.

JADC2 is a vision to connect all military sensors into a single network. It is designed to give a situational awareness picture across every area of responsibility  for Combatant Command leaders and senior Department of Defense officials. But the question is, how will these various systems and activities across all military services come together in a compatible network? In this episode, we speak with Mr. Steven “Tango” Tourangeau, Dean of the new Reginald Victor Jones Institute on Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations.

Ken and Tango discuss the challenge of fusing sensor data across weapons systems, the role of electromagnetic spectrum operations as the “backbone” of the JADC2 mission, and how artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) are changing discussion on the line between intelligence and operations. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

AOC thanks Northrop Grumman Corporation for sponsoring this episode.

What is an electromagnetic event and how could it wreak havoc on military forces and critical civilian infrastructure? Are we prepared to protect ourselves from such an event? Unfortunately, no. In this area,we are far behind the threat. There is exciting new research underway and progress is being made to develop a standard of protection thanks in large part to the efforts from organizations, such as the Electromagnetic Security Consortium (ESC). In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by David Tilton and Dr. Nathan Hansen of the ESC to discuss their work over the past several years to protect vulnerable systems, buildings, and services from this type of event.

The panel discusses the development of a demonstration facility to show different construction methodologies for protecting buildings from EMP attacks and to show how effective certain solutions are overall. The group also talks about the challenges of interacting with the commercial and private sectors, as well as the consortium’s efforts to launch a workforce development and certification programs to recruit the next generation of EW professionals.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

The US military must chart a new course to project, achieve, and sustain electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) superiority against peer competitors. What technology and operational concepts must the Department of Defense (DOD) adopt to address these challenges and persistent gaps in US electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO)?  In this episode, we speak with Bryan Clark, Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute. Bryan is the lead author of a new report, “The Invisible Battlefield: A Technology Strategy for US Electromagnetic Spectrum Superiority.”

 

Ken and Bryan discuss the need to invest in game-changing technologies, such as passive and multi-static sensing, networked electronic attack, and multi-function capabilities. They also address improved training through the use of live, virtual and constructive environments and the opportunities for open system architecture.

 

You can download and read the Hudson Institute's full report here. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

Electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO) is rapidly changing the way we think about modern warfare. Too often, EMSO is placed on the back burner and only thought of until a crisis arises. This forces leaders to scramble to find solutions for achieving an advantage. We need a proactive approach that provides our warfighters what they need today and anticipates what they need tomorrow. Is EMSO on the right path? We answer this in today’s episode with John Knowles, editor of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED). 

Ken and John discuss the biggest developments in EMSO over the past year, from new joint doctrine to a unified strategy to greater oversight by Congress. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO developments, visit our website. 

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Northrop Grumman Corporation.

This regularly scheduled podcast will feature interviews, analysis, and discussions covering leading issues of the day related to electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO). Topics include current events and news worldwide, US Congress and the annual defense budget, and military news from the US and allied countries. We will also bring you closer to AOC events and provide a forum to dive deeper into policy issues impacting our community.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined once again by John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED), and Col. Jeffrey Fischer, USAF (Ret). They discuss recent developments in the Ukraine War, considering the recent passage of aid by the U.S. Congress. They share their thoughts on the plan to send F-16s to Ukraine, the explosive growth of unmanned aerial systems (UASs) in combat, and how electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO) continues to shape how we fight, whether it’s on the Eastern Front, the Middle East, or Indo-Pacific region.

In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller chats with Doug Thornton, the technical director of Battelle's National Security Business Unit, to learn about the role software-defined radios do – and could – play into the future of electronic warfare.

Doug tells Ken that software-defined radios offer the promise of offering more flexibility and experimentation for warfighters – but limitations from increased complexity and dynamic range to security concerns, can affect performance and even make it more difficult to meet compliance. Doug says standards are being developed for the technology now, and these radios are changing the landscape for how the U.S. conducts operations around the world.

If you want to share your comments about the episode or the podcast in general, you can now email the host, Ken Miller, at HOST@fromthecrowsnest.org. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined once again by John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED) and Matt Thompson, AOC’s Senior Analyst to discuss current events and news on electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO). Together, they share their insights on Iran’s recent drone and missile attack against Israel and what lessons should the U.S. and its allies learn from the attack. They also discuss the development and fielding of directed energy weapons, the U.S. defense budget, and how to keep the titanic from sinking on spectrum reallocation and dynamic spectrum access.

In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller talks to Brian “Hinks” Hinkley, a retired Navy Captain and President of the Association of Old Crows. 

The two talk about how far the world of EW has changed in recent years, including evidence that people are understanding how critical EW and EMSO is in combat situations around the world. Brian tells Ken that America faces a variety of EW-related challenges – from the threat of rogue nations and non-state actors gaining access to EW technology to a dated acquisition procurement system. The two also discuss the current state of recruitment and training, and what AOC and others can do to help develop highly-trained personnel.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined once again by John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED) and Matt Thompson, AOC’s Senior Analyst to discuss current events and news on electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO). Together, they share their insights on recent developments in cognitive EW and the role of artificial intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), investment trends on unmanned aerial systems (UASs) and air-launched effects (ALE), and the need to address gaps in EW training and readiness.

In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller talks to author Dr. Joseph Guerci about the evolution and outlook for cognitive electronic warfare systems. Dr. Guerci is an internationally recognized leader in research and development of next generation sensor and cognitive systems and has over 30 years of experience in government, industry and academia, including several years with DARPA.

Ken asks Dr. Guerci about the relationship between artificial intelligence, deep learning and cognitive systems, as well as what “neuromorphic” chips are. The two explore the role and limitations of “digitally engineering” in electronic warfare training. 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined from Toulouse, France, by Dr. Tom Withington and San Antonio, TX, by Matt Thompson, AOC’s Senior Analyst to discuss current events and news on electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO) from literally around the world. Dr. Withington is the Editor, defense commentator, journalist, and military historian with Armada. Ken, Tom, and Matt discuss the increasing frequency of GPS jamming by Russia in Eastern Europe, the latest in the Russia-Ukraine War, and how UAVs are changing the way we conduct EMSO. 

In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller and AOC senior analyst Matt Thompson host a panel of experts with the U.S. Air Force’s 55th Electronic Combat Group called Compass Call. Lt. Col. Jesse Palchick and 1st Lt. Colin Schulz discuss the plans to transition their fleet from the aging EC-130H to the EA-37B aircraft and describe the capability differences between the new and outgoing models. They note that the upcoming EA-37B model will be able to fly higher and faster than the current EC-130H.

 

Ken asks Jesse and Matt how the Air Force has improved its understanding of the importance of electronic warfare and how upgrading to this new aircraft will affect the personnel working aboard this fleet.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

It’s summer! In this episode, we reach back into our archives to re-air a conversation between host, Ken Miller, and his guest, Dean Cheng, on “China’s Quest for Information Dominance,” which originally aired on April 26, 2023. Dean is a senior advisor to the China program at the U.S. Institute of Peace. He has written extensively on China’s military doctrine, the technological implications of its space program and “dual use” issues associated with China’s industrial and scientific infrastructure. FTCN will return with new episodes in August.

 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage or to subscribe, visit here. You can also email Ken at host@fromthecrowsnest.org.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by Madison Arcangeli and Katy Nazaretova from Forza DC to discuss the current state of Capitol Hill and the annual appropriations process. They cover a range of topics including keeping the government funded through FY 2024, the beginning of the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, the Ukraine War Supplemental, and the President’s upcoming State of the Union Address. It’s also Super Tuesday, so Ken, Madison and Katy discuss the impact of this week’s primary elections on the general election in November for Congress and the President.

To learn more about Forza DC, please visit here.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller sits down with Dr. David Thirtyacre, Assistant Professor in the College of Aeronautics at the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. David is the Chair and Chief Pilot for the Department of Flight and currently instructs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Flight Operations, Aerodynamics, Aircraft Performance, Unmanned Systems, Airborne Robotics, and Aviation and Aerospace Simulation Systems. He retired from the USAF with 27 years of duty in the fighter community with over 3500 hours piloting fighter aircraft and was a pioneer in the use of unmanned systems.

They discuss how sUAS are used in current conflicts around the world and the capabilities they offer, including signals intelligence (SIGINT), tactical communications and networking, and as a weapons system. David also shares his thoughts on how artificial intelligence is rapidly evolving the use of sUAS and what the future holds for this advanced technology.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by friend and colleague, retired USAF Colonel Jeffrey Fischer, to discuss the latest developments in the War in Ukraine after two years of fighting. Ken and Jeff discuss a myriad of related topics, including F-16s to Ukraine, the status of foreign aid from the U.S. and European Allies, the Russian capture of the Ukrainian city of Avdviiika, and how the 2024 U.S. presidential election may impact support for the war effort. In addition to being a well-regarded thought leader on the War in Ukraine and a staunch advocate for U.S. and European support for Ukraine, Jeff is an award-winning author of character-driven military fiction thrillers. His fourth and most recent book, the Russian Puppeteer, is a timely novel that captures the essence of the underlying dynamics of Russia and the Ukraine War. You can learn more about Jeff’s career and novels at www.jeffreyhfischer.com.

In the episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by Dr. Andrew Long of Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). Dr. Long has spent more than 16 years designing antennas and RF components for various applications ranging from moonshot research to commercial products, from HF to Q-band. His current tasks and interests at SwRI revolve around design, fabrication, and measurement of exceptionally novel apertures. Ken and Dr. Long discuss the rapidly growing field of High-Powered Microwave (HPM) technology, which serves as a bridge between traditional electronic warfare, especially electronic attack, and directed energy laser technology. What qualifies as HPM? What are the fundamental challenges and trade-offs, and where are current research pursuits taking the combined EW and DE communities.

To learn more about SwRI, visit here. To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

From the Crows’ Nest Host Ken Miller is joined once again by AOC Senior Analyst Matt Thompson and JED Editor-in-Chief John Knowles. They continue their discussion from the January 24 episode on January 24 to share their thoughts on recent developments across the global EMSO community, including news from the US Air Force 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing, countering attacks by Iran-backed Houthi militants from Yemen, and how Directed Energy can be a game-changer in an increasingly turbulent global security environment – and how EW specialists can help bring DE capabilities to the field.

In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller brings back Brian Clark, Senior Fellow and Director for the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute. Brian’s upcoming report titled “Hedging Bets: Rethinking Force Design for a Post Dominance Era” argues that the United States is in a “post dominance era” and faces relatively new disadvantages due to weapon proliferation. Brian notes that one of the biggest advantages of the U.S. right now is that it isn’t seeking to change the status quo of a country or region, unlike countries like China or Russia. 

Brian and Ken discuss how to predict the probabilities of potential conflict and what potential role members of proposed “hedge forces” can take in responding to international conflict. Brian also explains how the Department of Defense can take steps to make an affordable defense force.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller sits down with John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED), and AOC’s Senior Analyst Matt Thompson.

They discuss a range of current events topics including the Compass Call and the arrival of the new EA-37B aircraft, the U.S. defense budget, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Learn more here.

In this episode of From the Crow’s Nest, host Ken Miller speaks with Jarrett Holcomb, a senior research engineer at the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). Jarrett launched his career by developing an EW-centric test software called SPARTA, which later won an R&D 100 award. He was also recently recognized as an AOC Future 5 for his contributions to the Electromagnetic Warfare community. 

 

In recent years, Jarrett has focused on researching next-generation receiver architectures that meet the demanding requirements of future threats. Jarrett and Ken discuss advancements in wideband technology, open systems architectures, and the role of artificial intelligence in changing data processing for electronic intelligence. They later note the organizational challenges in trying to implement next-generation technology.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller sits down with retired US Air Force Lieutenant General Lance Landrum during AOC 2023 to discuss Strategic Partnerships and Alliances. General Landrum was a keynote speaker on the last day of the annual symposium. He is the former 23rd Deputy Chair of The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Military Committee. In this capacity, helped forge consensus among Allies on military advice and recommendations for bolstering NATO’s deterrence and defense. Prior to this assignment General Landrum served as the United States European Command Director of Operations (J3) and the Joint Staff J8 Deputy Director for Requirements and Capability Development, where he stood up and ran the Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Cross Functional Team. 

They discuss how the integration of cyber and space capabilities into traditional warfare domains alters the strategic landscape for the U.S. and its allies and what lessons can General Landrum share to advance EMS superiority through international partnerships.

 

To learn more about AOC 2023, please visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller is joined by Day 3 Keynote Speaker Vice Admiral Francis Morley, US Navy. Admiral Morley is the Principle Military Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition. They discuss the the current state of play in today’s Department of the Navy acquisition efforts, including specific areas of EW, the challenges of today and tomorrow, opportunities, and our collective challenge going forward in today’s increasingly competitive world order. Ken is also joined by AOC Senior Analyst Matt Thompson for his insight into the myriad of topics discussed during the symposium this week.

To learn more about AOC 2023, please visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller welcomes back John Knowles, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance (JED). Together, they explore a wide array of topics, such as the crucial lessons emerging from Ukraine, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific region. They also delve into defense industry trends observed at IMS Microwave Week in June and discuss significant electronic warfare provisions included in the House-passed FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act.

In this special episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller welcomes Col. William “Dollar” Young, USAF (Ret.) and Maj. Gen. David Gaedecke, USAF (Ret.) to discuss their symposium session on Advancing EMS Superiority. Their session traces the spectrum superiority story arc from 2018 through the present, through the eyes of senior leaders particularly well-positioned to offer critical observations and fresh insights into the history, evolution, current status, and future of spectrum superiority. Ken also then sits down with AOC Senior Analyst Matt Thompson to “connect the dots” among the many sessions and technical briefings taking place this week.

 

To learn more about AOC 2023, please visit our homepage.

In this episode of FTCN, host Ken Miller is joined by the opening keynote speaker, Lt Gen Matthew Glavy, Deputy Commandant for Information, US Marine Corps. Ken also sits with John Knowles, editor-in-chief of the JED magazine, and AOC International Board of Director Erik Bamford. They dive into the main themes of Day 1 of the symposium, which features discussions on the role of strategic alliances and partnerships in securing an EMS advantage in combat.

To learn more about the AOC 2023, visit our homepage.

In this episode, Ken chats with Gordon Mansfield, Vice President of Global Technology Planning at AT&T Services. Mr. Mansfield manages AT&T’s investments in the electromagnetic spectrum. 

Ken and Mr. Mansfield discuss the importance of effectively sharing the electromagnetic spectrum between defense, government,and commercialoperations, as well as between nations around the world. They also explore the changing attitude from the Department of Defense towards sharing electromagnetic spectrum space. 

Mr. Mansfield also discusses the potential role Congress may play in the future of electromagnetic spectrum use and the complicated rollout of 5G access on military bases nationwide.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.     

In this episode, host Ken Miller sits down with Dylan Duplechain, the Chief Engineer of the US Air Force’s 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing. Ken and Dylan dive deeper into the mission and work of the Wing from a technology perspective. They discuss target waveform development and assessments, modernization of rapid reprogramming, cognitive electromagnetic warfare, and investment in the growth of the civilian workforce.

 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller sits down with longtime friend and colleague retired Colonel Laurie Buckhout to discuss a range of current challenges and opportunities facing the EMSO community, including how the US Army has achieved greater focus on EW in recent years, what lessons Col. Buckhout has learned as the first to lead the US Army’s EW Division more than a decade ago. They also discuss some opportunities on the horizon for EMSO, especially strengthening interoperability and compatibility with allies and partners around the world. Finally, Col. Buckhout shares some exciting news about the next step in her career.

 

Laurie Buckhout is a retired US Army Colonel and decorated combat commander. She grew up on a farm in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley and attended James Madison University on an ROTC Scholarship.  She was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Army Signal Corps in 1984. She spent the next 26 years in assignments around the world, including commanding an 800-person battalion task force as part of the initial spearhead attack into Iraq in 2003.  She was tasked to lead the new EW Division that the US Army stood up around 2010. After retirement, she went on to start a very successful consulting company, which she recently sold. Today, she works tirelessly to continue her strong support for warfighters. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from James Madison University, a Master’s of Military Arts and Science in National Military Strategy, and a Master’s of Science in Information Management from Webster University.

 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode of From the Crows Nest, host Ken Miller sits down with Colonel Joshua Koslov, Commander of the U.S. Air Force 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing (SWW), out of Eglin Air Force Base in Pensacola, Florida. Now entering its third year, the SWW was established to address persistent gaps in U.S. Air Force EW that were highlighted across numerous studies and reports. The SWW is paving the way for better leadership and technology integration and reinvigorating a culture of EMS awareness in the Joint Force.

 

Ken and Col. Koslov dive into the mission of the SWW, such as personnel shortages, effective training, assessing and enhancing, and the need for EW readiness and integrating EW capabilities into joint force operations. They also discuss the activation and role of the 950th Spectrum Warfare Group and the mission of the 68th Electronic Warfare Squadron (EWS) FMS Reprogramming Center, which supports foreign military sales partners by providing electronic warfare mission data. This mission directly enhances U.S. and coalition warfighters' combat capabilities and survivability. Finally, Ken and Col. Koslov discuss an October 2023 activation ceremony for Detachment 1, 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing, and Detachment 1, 87th Electronic Warfare Squadron, at Warner Robins Air Force Base, GA.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, we try to make sense of how to navigate the crazy labyrinth of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) regulatory regime. Host Ken Miller is joined by friend and colleague Steven Casazza, President of Defense Trade Solutions, a company dedicated to helping clients holistically approach international defense business. Ken and Steven discuss best practices, the most common mistakes, and what needs to be done to make this process easier without compromising national security. Whether you’re a US company selling abroad or a foreign company trying to do business in the US, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

 

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage. 

In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, Ken Miller sits down the Matt Thompson, AOC’s new Senior Analyst. Matt joined the AOC to provide operational and technical analysis of current trends in the military and industry. Matt brings years of experience in the EA-6B Prowler and EA-18G Growler. Ken and Matt discuss a range of topics, including the rise of artificial intelligence, the fielding of the Navy’s Next Generation Jammer, and the arrival of the new EC-37B Compass Call.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our website.

 In this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller sits down with journalist, writer, and friend, Dr. Alix Valenti. Alix hosts her own podcast too, D-Fence, which focuses on European military and security issues. In this collaborative podcast effort, Ken and Alix discuss issues ranging from the art (and experimentation) of creating a podcast to the rise of artificial intelligence and machine learning. In between, the cover current events, their perspectives on coalition operations, and trends in Naval EW and Undersea Warfare.

You can learn more about Dr. Alix Valenti here.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

The AOC recently co-hosted a panel discussion with the Hudson Institute. Moderated by AOC President Brian Hinkley and Hudson Senior Fellow Timothy Walton, we hear from representatives Rick Larsen from Washington State, Don Bacon from Nebraska, and Chrissy Houlahan from Pennsylvania for an inside Congressional perspective on the EMSO space.

As chairs of the Congressional Electronic Warfare Working Group, Representatives Larsen, Bacon, and Houlahan offer their combined expertise on a range of topics, including the defense budget, spectrum sharing, and the microelectronic supply chain.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

For more information about the Hudson Institute, visit their website. 

On this episode of From the Crows’ Nest, host Ken Miller speaks with 17-year-old high school senior Jonathan Dorminy about his nationally-acclaimed project studying a frequency range between microwave and infrared, known as “the terahertz gap.”

This gap is a range of the electromagnetic spectrum that has been barely utilized compared to the rest of the spectrum. Using this frequency band can be difficult because of limitations on how fast transistors can switch for generating signals. Jonathan’s project used a black-box radiator (an object to generate signals of a specific intensity and frequency by being heated to a specific temperature) to run an experiment and achieve a reading 60 times faster than what anyone else has managed to produce. Ken says this project shows the terahertz gap as an intriguing frontier for both commercial and defense industries.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

As the Ukraine War continues, we are learning essential lessons for the EW and EMSO communities (hint: some of them are not new)... Host Ken Miller is joined by John Knowles and Colonel Jeff "Fish" Fischer for their insights into the broader impacts of these lessons and how we can (finally?) apply them to the changing global security landscapeーfrom defense budgets to military operations.

In this mid-summer update, John Knowles and Jeff Fischer give their perspectives on the war in Ukraine, delivering UAV capabilities, the Congressional Defense budget process, and the recent AOC/Hudson Institute Panel discussion with the Congressional EW Working Group.

John Knowles is the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Electromagnetic Dominance.

Jeff Fischer is a retired Air Force Colonel and author.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.

In this episode, we hear insights from a webinar with VADM Frank "Spanky" Morley about the current state of play in today’s Department of the Navy acquisition efforts. Frank is the Principal Military Deputy, Assistant Secretary of the Navy. He discusses the challenges of acquisition efforts and how we can move forward in today's changing world order.

To learn more about today’s topics or to stay updated on EMSO and EW developments, visit our homepage.