Skip to content
NucleCast
PodcastNewsTech NewsEnglishE

NucleCast

by ANWA Deterrence Center

NewDr. Mark Peters - AI, Quantum, and the Future of Nuclear DeterrenceNovember 10, 2026 · 32 min
Episodes
292
Released
weekly
Latest episode
Nov 10, 2026
WebsiteRSS feed

About the podcast

Welcome to NucleCast, the official podcast of the ANWA Deterrence Center. NucleCast is an engaging, educational podcast featuring a series of discussions and interviews with experts in nuclear policy, technology, and deterrence. The show is hosted by Dr. Adam Lowther, Strategic Advisor to the ANWA Deterrence Center and an expert on nuclear deterrence.

License: ANWA Deterrence Center 2022

Episodes 292

  1. Dr. Mark Peters - AI, Quantum, and the Future of Nuclear Deterrence

    32 minSeason 4 · Episode 292

    In this episode of NucleCast, we welcome Mark Peters of MITRE for a conversation about the changing strategic environment and the technologies shaping the future of deterrence.Peters explores deterrence as a …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, we welcome Mark Peters of MITRE for a conversation about the changing strategic environment and the technologies shaping the future of deterrence.

    Peters explores deterrence as a complex system-of-systems challenge, examining how artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, resilient system architecture, and enterprise modernization can strengthen situational awareness and support strategic stability. The discussion also looks at nuclear command, control, and communications modernization, the defense industrial base, and Project Meridian as the United States prepares for an increasingly complex future security environment.

    The conversation offers a forward-looking look at what will be required to build a deterrent enterprise that is resilient, adaptable, and capable of responding to evolving threats.

    Mark Peters, Ph.D. is President and CEO of MITRE, a not-for-profit technology company that operates research and development centers supporting government missions. A recognized expert in nuclear energy and national security, he has more than 25 years of experience leading scientific discovery at federally funded R&D centers. His previous roles include Director of Idaho National Laboratory, President of Battelle Energy Alliance, and Associate Laboratory Director for Energy and Global Security at Argonne National Laboratory. He is also a member of the National Academy of Engineering and President of the American Nuclear Society.

  2. From Kitty Hawk to the Cold War: The Wright Brothers’ Enduring Legacy | Part 2

    31 minSeason 4 · Episode 291

    In Part Two of NucleCast’s special Legacy Series on the Wright Brothers, Robert Leddy returns to explore what happened after Wilbur and Orville Wright solved one of humanity’s greatest technological challenges …

    Show notes

    In Part Two of NucleCast’s special Legacy Series on the Wright Brothers, Robert Leddy returns to explore what happened after Wilbur and Orville Wright solved one of humanity’s greatest technological challenges, and how their breakthrough helped reshape the century that followed.

    The conversation examines the early competition to achieve practical flight, including the work of Samuel Langley and Glenn Curtiss, the Wright brothers’ testing at Huffman Prairie, international advances in aviation, and the disputes that emerged as powered flight spread around the world.

    Leddy then traces aviation’s rapid evolution through World War I, World War II, and into the Cold War, examining how the airplane developed from an experimental technology into an increasingly important element of military power and modern society. The discussion also considers a fascinating counterfactual: What might the 20th century have looked like if Wilbur and Orville Wright had never achieved practical controlled flight?

    From aviation and military technology to the eventual emergence of rockets and other advanced systems, Part Two considers the far-reaching consequences of the Wright brothers’ work and the extraordinary chain of technological progress that followed.

    Leddy is a North Carolina writer, actor, and longtime student of the Wright brothers whose extensive research explores their early lives, family relationships, and pioneering achievements. His research inspired Wilbur & Orville: The Workshop Upstairs, a one-person theatrical production that he wrote and performs, portraying nearly 14 characters while tracing the brothers’ story from Dayton, Ohio, to Kitty Hawk and beyond. Leddy has been a member of the Writers Guild since 2000.

    https://wilburandorvilletheworkshopupstairs.com/

  3. Before Kitty Hawk: The Genius Behind the Wright Brothers | Part 1

    30 minSeason 4 · Episode 290

    Before aviation transformed transportation, warfare, commerce, exploration, and global affairs, two brothers working from a bicycle shop set out to solve a problem many believed could not be solved.In Part One …

    Show notes

    Before aviation transformed transportation, warfare, commerce, exploration, and global affairs, two brothers working from a bicycle shop set out to solve a problem many believed could not be solved.

    In Part One of this special two-part NucleCast Legacy Series, writer, actor, and longtime Wright brothers researcher Robert Leddy joins us to explore the extraordinary story of Wilbur and Orville Wright and the people, circumstances, and ideas that placed them on a path toward changing history.

    Leddy has spent years studying the Wright brothers’ early lives, family relationships, and the qualities that ultimately contributed to their pioneering achievements in flight. His research inspired Wilbur & Orville: The Workshop Upstairs, a one-person theatrical production that Leddy wrote and performs, portraying nearly 14 characters while tracing the brothers’ journey from Dayton, Ohio, to Kitty Hawk and beyond. A North Carolina writer and actor, Leddy has been a member of the Writers Guild since 2000.

    In this episode, Leddy takes us beyond the familiar story of the first flight to examine the Wright family itself, Wilbur’s pivotal injury, the important and often-overlooked role of Catherine Wright, and the brothers’ groundbreaking experiments with wind tunnels, aerodynamics, and flight control.

    But their legacy extends far beyond the airplane. The Wright brothers helped usher in a technological transformation that would reshape the modern world.

    https://wilburandorvilletheworkshopupstairs.com/

  4. 289 - Robert Peters: Rethinking Nuclear Deterrence: China, Missile Defense, and the Future of Strategic Stability

    32 minSeason 4 · Episode 289

    The nuclear landscape is changing, and U.S. deterrence strategy must change with it. In this episode of NucleCast, Robert “Bob” Peters examines how the rise of China as a nuclear power, the continuing challenge …

    Show notes

    The nuclear landscape is changing, and U.S. deterrence strategy must change with it. In this episode of NucleCast, Robert “Bob” Peters examines how the rise of China as a nuclear power, the continuing challenge posed by North Korea, and an increasingly complex security environment are reshaping the requirements for credible deterrence.

    The conversation explores whether current U.S. nuclear modernization efforts are sufficient, the need for effective deterrence in the Western Pacific, and how conventional and theater-range nuclear capabilities can work together to influence an adversary’s decision calculus. Bob also discusses the growing role of missile defense, the potential place for artificial intelligence in nuclear decision-making, and how better information can provide leaders with a decision advantage during a crisis.

    At the heart of the discussion is a fundamental question: What must the United States do today to ensure its deterrent remains credible in a world with multiple nuclear-armed adversaries?

    About Robert Peters

    Robert Peters is Director of the Douglas and Sarah Allison Center for National Security at The Heritage Foundation, where his work includes strategic stability, nuclear deterrence, missile defense, and arms control. He previously served as lead strategist at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency and as a Senior Research Fellow at National Defense University’s Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction. He also served in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, where his work included the New START Treaty and the 2010 Nuclear Posture Review

  5. Dr. Hunter Hustus - Deterrence on NATO’s Front Line

    38 minSeason 4 · Episode 288

    In this episode of NucleCast, Hunter Hustus joins the conversation to examine the changing security environment in Europe and what it means for NATO deterrence. From the strategic importance of Gotland and the …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, Hunter Hustus joins the conversation to examine the changing security environment in Europe and what it means for NATO deterrence. From the strategic importance of Gotland and the addition of Sweden and Finland to NATO, to the relationship between conventional forces and nuclear deterrence, Hustus explores what makes deterrence credible in an increasingly complex security environment.

    The discussion also considers the value of a sustained U.S. presence in Europe, survivability and dispersal of forces, deterrence by denial, and the importance of continually stress-testing assumptions through exercises, gaming, and training. At the heart of the conversation is a critical question: How can NATO strengthen conventional defense while maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent and reducing the risk of escalation?

    Key Topics:

    • European security and NATO's strategic posture
    • The importance of Gotland in NATO defense
    • Deterrence credibility and observable actions
    • The interaction between conventional and nuclear forces
    • The impact of Sweden and Finland joining NATO
    • Deterrence by denial and force posture
    • The importance of steady state US forces in Europe
    • Stress testing deterrence assumptions
    • Nuclear force structure and credibility
    • Decision calculus of adversaries

    Dr. Hunter Hustus served more than 34 years with the U.S. Air Force as both an active-duty officer and civilian, specializing in nuclear deterrence strategy, policy, and strategic communications. A retired B-52 electronic warfare officer, he also served in NATO and later advised U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Africa on foreign policy and congressional affairs. He holds a Doctorate in Law and Policy from Northeastern University and currently resides on Gotland, Sweden.

  6. John Copper - Taiwan at the Crossroads

    41 minSeason 4 · Episode 287

    In this episode of NucleCast, Professor Emeritus John Copper examines the complex relationship among the United States, China, and Taiwan and the factors that could shape the future of cross-Strait relations …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, Professor Emeritus John Copper examines the complex relationship among the United States, China, and Taiwan and the factors that could shape the future of cross-Strait relations. The conversation explores the risk of conflict over Taiwan, the role of nuclear and other advanced weapons, and how artificial intelligence may influence future warfare and diplomacy.

    Copper also discusses Taiwan’s strategic importance to U.S. interests, its critical role in global semiconductor production, and the political and electoral dynamics shaping the island’s future. From China's military posture and Taiwan's defense to questions of independence, identity, economic ties, and the possibility of peaceful resolution, the episode provides a wide-ranging look at one of the most important geopolitical challenges facing the international community.

  7. Bryan Clark - Why the Arctic Is the Back Door to America

    34 minSeason 4 · Episode 286

    The Arctic is no longer a remote blank spot on the map - it is a frontline for missile defense, undersea warfare, and the future of U.S. national security. Bryan Clark reveals why America’s current posture …

    Show notes

    The Arctic is no longer a remote blank spot on the map - it is a frontline for missile defense, undersea warfare, and the future of U.S. national security. Bryan Clark reveals why America’s current posture leaves the “back door” exposed, and what it would actually take to see, move, and respond in the high north before a crisis hits.

    Host, Adam and Bryan Clark break down the Arctic as a seabed-to-space battlespace, from aging radar sites in Greenland and Alaska to the growing threat of unmanned surface and undersea vehicles that can slip past today’s surveillance. Bryan explains why Russia’s Arctic advantage is bigger than most Americans realize, how Svalbard, the GIUK gap, and polar satellite links fit into the picture, and why low-flying drones and cruise missiles could be far harder to detect than the bomber and ICBM threats the U.S. still plans around.

    You'll discover why Alaska becomes even more critical if Golden Dome moves forward, how Russia’s nuclear icebreakers and floating nuclear power plants support its Arctic dominance, and why U.S. and allied infrastructure is still too thin to keep pace. Bryan also lays out the practical fixes - from long-endurance unmanned aircraft to proliferated LEO satellites and new icebreakers - that could turn the Arctic from a vulnerability into a defended domain.

    He also addresses China’s “near Arctic nation” ambitions too, including the commercial motive behind resource extraction, fishing, and shipping access, and the strategic logic behind wanting a stake in the region’s future. If you care about homeland defense, strategic competition, or the next major pressure point between the U.S., Russia, and China, this conversation shows exactly why the Arctic cannot stay an afterthought.

    Bryan Clark

    Bryan Clark is a senior fellow and Director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at Hudson Institute. He leads studies there in naval operations and fleet architecture, electronic warfare, autonomous systems, military competitions, 5G telecommunications, and command and control.

    Before joining Hudson Institute, Bryan was a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments (CSBA), and special assistant to the Chief of Naval Operations and director of his Commander’s Action Group. During his 25-year Navy career, Bryan was an enlisted and officer submariner.

  8. Cullen Glass - Supply Chain Manufacturing Capacity and Deterrence

    34 minSeason 4 · Episode 285

    What does it take to build and sustain the industrial foundation behind America's national defense?In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther sits down with Cullen Glass, CEO of Strong Chain LLC, to …

    Show notes

    What does it take to build and sustain the industrial foundation behind America's national defense?

    In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther sits down with Cullen Glass, CEO of Strong Chain LLC, to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. defense industrial base. From workforce shortages in shipbuilding and submarine production to supply chain vulnerabilities and critical material shortages, Cullen explains why strengthening America's manufacturing capacity is essential to maintaining effective deterrence.

    The conversation explores the vital role small businesses play in defense manufacturing, how artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping the industry, and what government programs are available to help suppliers compete and grow. Cullen also shares practical advice for navigating cybersecurity requirements, working with prime contractors, and positioning companies for long-term success in the defense sector.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Why workforce development is the defense industrial base's biggest challenge
    • How supply chain resilience supports national security
    • The growing importance of small businesses in defense manufacturing
    • The impact of AI and automation on future defense jobs
    • Strategies for succeeding as a defense supplier in a competitive market

    Cullen Glass founded Strong Chain to strengthen the U.S. Defense Industrial Base, drawing on more than 28 years across defense, manufacturing, logistics, and global supply chains. He previously served as Vice President of Supply Chain Management at HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division, leading more than 1,200 professionals and managing $7B+ in supply chain spend for advanced naval programs. His career also includes nearly two decades at Honeywell in senior supply chain, operations, and IT manufacturing leadership roles.

  9. Amir Vexler - Fueling National Security; Rebuilding America's Uranium Enrichment Capacity

    32 minSeason 4 · Episode 284

    In this episode of NucleCast, Manolis sits down with Amir Vexler, CEO of Centrus Energy, to discuss one of the most critical challenges facing America's nuclear future: rebuilding domestic uranium enrichment …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, Manolis sits down with Amir Vexler, CEO of Centrus Energy, to discuss one of the most critical challenges facing America's nuclear future: rebuilding domestic uranium enrichment capacity.

    Vexler explores Centrus Energy's unique heritage, its successful deployment of American centrifuge technology, and the importance of maintaining unobligated enrichment capabilities to support both commercial nuclear energy and national security requirements. The conversation examines the global imbalance in uranium enrichment, the risks of dependence on foreign state-owned enterprises, and the steps being taken to strengthen the U.S. nuclear fuel cycle.

    The discussion also covers workforce development, infrastructure modernization, public-private partnerships, and the growing market for high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU). As demand for reliable, carbon-free energy continues to grow, Vexler explains why a resilient domestic nuclear fuel supply chain is essential to America's economic prosperity, energy security, and strategic competitiveness.

    Whether you're interested in nuclear energy, national security, or the future of U.S. industrial capabilities, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most important sectors underpinning America's future.

  10. Deb Gracio - PNNL, AI, and the Future of National Security Science

    35 minSeason 4 · Episode 283

    Deb Gracio, Director of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), sits down with us to discuss the laboratory's remarkable evolution from its Hanford roots to its current role as a leader in scientific …

    Show notes

    Deb Gracio, Director of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), sits down with us to discuss the laboratory's remarkable evolution from its Hanford roots to its current role as a leader in scientific innovation, nuclear security, and national security research.

    With more than 35 years at PNNL, Gracio shares her journey from researcher to laboratory director and reflects on the history and mission of one of the Department of Energy's premier national laboratories. The conversation explores PNNL's contributions to nuclear security, nonproliferation, homeland security, and deterrence, as well as the growing role of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and advanced computing in accelerating scientific discovery and supporting national security decision-making.

    Gracio also discusses workforce development, the importance of knowledge transfer across generations of scientists and engineers, and how national laboratories are preparing the next generation to tackle complex security and scientific challenges.

    Whether you're interested in deterrence, emerging technologies, scientific innovation, or the future of the national laboratory enterprise, this episode provides an insightful look inside one of America's most influential research institutions.

    Deborah (Deb) Gracio is the Director of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), operated by Battelle for the U.S. Department of Energy. She oversees a $1.7 billion research and development portfolio and a workforce of more than 6,000 staff advancing innovations in science, energy, and national security. A nationally recognized leader in data science, engineering, and national security, Gracio has held numerous leadership positions throughout her distinguished 35-year career at PNNL and is a Fellow of both the Washington State Academy of Sciences and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

  11. JC Btaiche - From Fusion Dreams to Defense Reality

    32 minSeason 4 · Episode 282

    In this episode of NucleCast, Guest Host, Manolis Priniotakis, sits down with JC Btaiche, CEO and Founder of Fuse, to discuss his path into the fusion industry and how his company is taking a pragmatic approach …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, Guest Host, Manolis Priniotakis, sits down with JC Btaiche, CEO and Founder of Fuse, to discuss his path into the fusion industry and how his company is taking a pragmatic approach to advancing fusion technology. Rather than waiting decades for commercial fusion power, Fuse is focused on developing interim capabilities that address urgent national security, space, and defense needs today.

    JC explains how Fuse is leveraging public-private partnerships, including its Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the Nevada National Security Site, to accelerate innovation and expand radiation effects testing capabilities. The conversation explores the importance of radiation testing for spacecraft and defense systems, the growing role of industry in national security missions, and how a strong ecosystem of government, academic, and private-sector partners is helping drive the next era of nuclear innovation.

    They also discuss the broader nuclear renaissance underway in the United States, the challenges of building talent and supply chains, and Fuse's vision of making "fusion as a service" a reality for government and industry customers.

    Fuse is a U.S.-based company accelerating the world’s transition to fusion energy while safeguarding humankind. On the pathway to fusion, JC and the Fuse team are ensuring U.S. and Allied competitiveness through nuclear and radiation effects testing with their pulsed power machines in operation today.

    Originally from Lebanon, JC began research while in high school at one of the most prominent plasma physics and fluid dynamics labs in the Middle East based on his interest in space and energy. In lieu of going to university, JC built Fuse, bringing together top leaders in fusion and pulsed power from the U.S. Department of Energy, Defense, the National Labs, and the Intelligence Community.

    Fuse built the world’s first, most efficient, and highest power (1 TW) fusion driver of its kind — TITAN — and the most efficient pulsed neutron source — FAETON. The experimental results and Fuse’s machines have been peer reviewed and published by Nature Scientific Reports. The company has secured ongoing contracts and agreements with the U.S. Government and commercial entities for nuclear & radiation effects testing. Fuse has official partnerships with Los Alamos, Sandia National Labs and NNSS.

  12. Don Cook - Stockpile Stewardship and Nuclear Modernization

    43 minSeason 4 · Episode 281

    As the global security environment grows more complex, how can the United States maintain a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent without returning to nuclear testing? In this episode of NucleCast …

    Show notes

    As the global security environment grows more complex, how can the United States maintain a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent without returning to nuclear testing? In this episode of NucleCast, Manolis sits down with Don Cook, former Deputy Administrator for Defense Programs at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), to discuss the evolving challenges facing the U.S. nuclear weapons enterprise.

    Drawing on decades of experience, Cook examines how the strategic assumptions that shaped nuclear policy in the early 2010s have been upended by renewed great power competition, Russia's aggression, and China's military modernization. He explains the critical role of the Stockpile Stewardship Program, the remarkable advances in simulation and modeling technologies, and how scientists continue to certify the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile without explosive testing.

    The conversation also explores the importance of legacy underground test data, the challenges of pit production, aging infrastructure, workforce development, and the investments needed to modernize the nation's nuclear enterprise for the decades ahead. Cook offers a candid assessment of where the U.S. stands today and what priorities should guide future leaders responsible for sustaining the deterrent.

  13. Chris Stone - Deception, Deterrence, and the Future of Space Warfare

    34 minSeason 4 · Episode 280

    As competition in space intensifies, how can the United States deter aggression and defend its vital space assets? In this episode of NucleCast, Chris Stone explores the evolving role of deception in space …

    Show notes

    As competition in space intensifies, how can the United States deter aggression and defend its vital space assets? In this episode of NucleCast, Chris Stone explores the evolving role of deception in space warfare and its potential to transform space deterrence strategies.

    Drawing on lessons from military history and current geopolitical realities, Stone examines why understanding an adversary's strategic culture and worldview is essential for effective deterrence. He discusses the growing challenges of protecting satellites, the vulnerabilities of space systems, and how innovative approaches such as decoys, fake satellites, and maneuver warfare could complicate enemy targeting and strengthen U.S. space security.

    The conversation also dives into Chinese and Russian approaches to space conflict, the future of space defense operations, and why active defense and deception may become indispensable tools for maintaining strategic advantage in an increasingly contested domain.

  14. Lindell Lucy - Ukraine's War Zone, Lessons from a Cross-Country Trip

    34 minSeason 4 · Episode 279

    In this episode, Lindell Lucy shares his recent experiences traveling across Ukraine, insights on life during wartime, and explores the complex topic of nuclear deterrence and Ukraine's potential nuclear …

    Show notes

    In this episode, Lindell Lucy shares his recent experiences traveling across Ukraine, insights on life during wartime, and explores the complex topic of nuclear deterrence and Ukraine's potential nuclear future.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

    01:00 Lindell Lucy's Trip Across Ukraine

    02:53 Lessons Learned from Ukraine Trip

    04:02 Life in Ukraine During War

    06:54 Ukrainian Perspectives on NATO and Support

    09:01 Nuclear Deterrence Ideas and Strategies

    14:51 Front Lines and Battlefield Conditions

    20:07 Personal Encounters and Human Stories

    24:58 Three Wishes for Ukraine's Future

  15. Tyler Hacker and Luke Widenhouse - The Missing Ingredient in Military Modernization, Why Advanced Energetics Matter

    37 minSeason 4 · Episode 278

    In this episode of NucleCast, host Manolis sits down with Tyler Hacker and Luke Widenhouse of the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments (CSBA) to examine why advanced energetics remain one of the most …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, host Manolis sits down with Tyler Hacker and Luke Widenhouse of the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments (CSBA) to examine why advanced energetics remain one of the most underappreciated elements of U.S. military modernization. Drawing on historical lessons from World War II and their recent research, the discussion explores how improvements in energetic materials can dramatically enhance the performance, range, lethality, and effectiveness of modern weapon systems.

    The conversation dives into the barriers that have slowed the development and fielding of next-generation energetics, the strategic consequences of continued neglect, and why even modest technological advances can deliver outsized operational impacts across multiple theaters. Tyler and Luke also discuss the growing importance of energetics for hypersonic weapons, unmanned systems, and the future of strategic deterrence.

    Topics Covered:

    • Historical lessons from WWII and the adoption of advanced energetics
    • Why small improvements can produce large strategic effects
    • Barriers to developing and fielding new energetic materials
    • The role of energetics in hypersonic weapons and unmanned systems
    • Policy recommendations to accelerate innovation and investment

    Link to report: https://csbaonline.org/resource/choosing-less-bang-for-buck-the-underutilization-of-advanced-energetics/

  16. Lt. Gen. (Ret) Tom Jones - From Cold War to NATO; A Nuclear Journey

    41 minSeason 4 · Episode 277

    Retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General Tom Jones shares firsthand insights from a career spanning the height of the Cold War through modern NATO nuclear operations. Drawing on decades of operational …

    Show notes

    Retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General Tom Jones shares firsthand insights from a career spanning the height of the Cold War through modern NATO nuclear operations. Drawing on decades of operational experience, he discusses the realities of nuclear deterrence, the challenges of maintaining credible readiness, and the extraordinary demands placed on aircrews tasked with executing nuclear missions under the most extreme conditions.

    Lt. Gen. Jones explores the evolution of NATO’s nuclear posture, the complexity of nuclear weapon delivery, and the importance of survivability, command and control, and alliance cohesion. He also reflects on how changing political dynamics, public opinion in Europe, and renewed great-power competition have reshaped the deterrence landscape. From Cold War certainties to today’s escalating risks, he offers a candid assessment of the future of nuclear deterrence and the joint force capabilities required to sustain it.

    Lt. Gen. Noel T. “Tom” Jones (USAF Ret.) retired in 2015 as Vice Commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa, where he helped lead more than 24,000 personnel across Europe and Africa during major events including the Benghazi attack, Russia’s annexation of Crimea, and the Ebola crisis. He also led the command’s response to sequestration-driven force reductions while maintaining mission readiness.

    A 1980 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Tom served more than 35 years on active duty, commanding at the squadron, group, and wing levels, including combat leadership during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His assignments included leading the Air Force’s largest fighter wing at Luke AFB, serving as Deputy Director of the Central Security Service supporting NSA operations, helping stand up U.S. Cyber Command, directing plans for the U.S. military drawdown in Iraq, and overseeing Air Force modernization requirements at the Pentagon.

    Since retiring, Tom has advised defense industry organizations through Tom Jones Consulting, served as a Highly Qualified Expert-Senior Mentor for the U.S. Air Force, and remains active in public service in Louisiana.

  17. Paul Amato - The Importance of Theater Nuclear Weapons for Deterrence

    33 minSeason 4 · Episode 276

    In this episode of NucleCast, Adam sits down with Paul Amato for an in-depth discussion on the role of theater nuclear weapons in maintaining U.S. deterrence and strategic stability. Drawing on historical …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, Adam sits down with Paul Amato for an in-depth discussion on the role of theater nuclear weapons in maintaining U.S. deterrence and strategic stability. Drawing on historical lessons from the Cold War and examining today's evolving security environment, they explore why low-yield nuclear capabilities remain an important component of U.S. defense strategy.

    The conversation examines Russian and Chinese nuclear approaches, the development of low-yield nuclear options in the 2018 Nuclear Posture Review, and the operational realities of deploying and sustaining theater nuclear forces. Amato explains how capability diversity, alliance assurance, and extended deterrence contribute to strategic stability and why maintaining credible options across the escalation spectrum is critical to deterring adversaries.

    They also discuss common misconceptions about low-yield weapons, the importance of capability symmetry, and what the future nuclear force structure may require as global threats continue to evolve.

    Paul Amato is the Principal Advisor for Strategic and Nuclear Deterrence at CNA. He is also a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security. From 2016-2025, Amato was director of nuclear deterrence policy in the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Policy, where he and his team led all facets of nuclear deterrence policy development, implementation and allied extended deterrence, including overseeing development and implementation of both the 2018 and 2022 Nuclear Posture Reviews. His experience includes more than a decade as an attorney in private practice, and over twenty-eight years of active and reserve service in the US Marine Corps. Amato is a graduate of Franklin & Marshall College and the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. The views he expresses in this podcast are his own.

  18. Jay Tilden 2 - The Myth of the Missile Gap, Rethinking Nuclear Deterrence

    42 minSeason 4 · Episode 275

    Are perceived gaps in nuclear capabilities driving unnecessary fears of a new arms race? In this Part 2, Jay Tilden examines one of the most enduring questions in deterrence theory: How do perceptions of …

    Show notes

    Are perceived gaps in nuclear capabilities driving unnecessary fears of a new arms race? In this Part 2, Jay Tilden examines one of the most enduring questions in deterrence theory: How do perceptions of vulnerability influence nuclear strategy and global stability?

    Drawing on history, policy, and strategic theory, Tilden explores the concept of the “missile gap,” the political and psychological forces that shape deterrence debates, and whether symmetrical nuclear capabilities can actually contribute to stability rather than instability. The discussion challenges common assumptions about nuclear competition, emphasizing that deterrence depends as much on communication, understanding, and credibility as it does on military capability.

    The conversation also examines adversary motivations, the role of nuclear doctrine, and the risks of public misunderstandings surrounding nuclear weapons and strategy. Tilden argues that calls for new capabilities are often driven by perceived vulnerabilities rather than actual strategic disadvantages, while highlighting the importance of informed, transparent dialogue among policymakers, military leaders, and the public.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Perceived vulnerabilities often drive nuclear escalation and modernization efforts.
    • Nuclear responses do not always need to be proportional to be credible.
    • Strategic dialogue and communication are essential to maintaining deterrence stability.
    • Symmetry in capabilities can be stabilizing rather than destabilizing.
    • Arms races may reflect mutual recognition of strength and capability, not necessarily increased instability.

  19. General (Ret.) Robin Rand - The Kyle Institute’s Role in National Security Innovation

    36 minSeason 4 · Episode 274

    In this episode, General (Ret.) Robin Rand joins NucleCast to discuss the mission and impact of the Kyle Institute for National Security at the University of Arizona.Rand provides an inside look at how the …

    Show notes

    In this episode, General (Ret.) Robin Rand joins NucleCast to discuss the mission and impact of the Kyle Institute for National Security at the University of Arizona.

    Rand provides an inside look at how the Institute is advancing national security through cutting-edge research in hypersonics, cyber, space, and directed energy, while building critical partnerships with federal agencies, the defense industry, and regional military installations. He also highlights the Institute’s role in developing the next generation of the national security workforce.

    The conversation explores today’s most pressing strategic challenges—from contested domains like cyber and space to acquisition hurdles—and underscores the enduring importance of modernizing the nuclear deterrent in a rapidly evolving threat environment.

    General (Ret.) Robin Rand is President and CEO of the Kyl Institute for National Security at the University of Arizona. A former Commander of Air Force Global Strike Command and U.S. Strategic Command’s air component, he served over 44 years in the U.S. Air Force, with more than 5,100 flying hours, primarily in the F-16.

    Following his military career, he has held senior leadership and advisory roles across the defense, nonprofit, and academic sectors, bringing deep expertise in strategic deterrence, national security policy, and workforce development.

  20. Neile Miller: Inside Nuclear Budget and the Evolution of Neveda National Security Site

    35 minSeason 4 · Episode 273

    In this episode of NucleCast, Neile Miller breaks down the often-overlooked mechanics of federal budgeting and what they mean for the nuclear enterprise. From the earliest stages of budget formulation within …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, Neile Miller breaks down the often-overlooked mechanics of federal budgeting and what they mean for the nuclear enterprise. From the earliest stages of budget formulation within the laboratories to the critical role of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Miller offers a clear, insider perspective on how funding decisions shape national security priorities.

    The conversation also explores the remarkable evolution of the Nevada National Security Site—from its origins as a nuclear testing ground to its current role as a hub for advanced science and stockpile stewardship. Miller highlights how underground experiments, cutting-edge research, and the management of government-owned, contractor-operated facilities contribute to maintaining the safety, security, and reliability of the U.S. nuclear deterrent.

    Neile Miller is Vice President of Strategic Engagement & Communications for Mission Support and Test Services (MSTS), the management contractor for the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS). She leads strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach efforts.

    Since joining NNSS in 2018, Miller has served as Senior Director of Business Operations—overseeing finance, HR, IT, and supply chain—and as Chief Strategist, guiding the site’s long-term operational success.

    Previously, she served as Acting Undersecretary of Energy for Nuclear Security and Principal Deputy Administrator of the NNSA. During her tenure, she drove major transformation across the U.S. nuclear weapons enterprise and received top awards from both the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Energy.

    Miller also served as DOE Budget Director and held senior roles in the Office of Nuclear Energy, as well as two tours at the White House Office of Management and Budget overseeing DOE, DoD, NNSA, and NRC programs.

    In the private sector, she has advised organizations on strategy, innovation, and growth, and continues to serve as a Senior Advisor to HWG, LLP.

  21. Jay Tilden - Nuclear Threats Uncovered: Intelligence, Terrorism, and Deterrence

    38 minSeason 4 · Episode 272

    In this episode of NucleCast, Adam sits down with Jay Tilden, former Department of Energy intelligence officer, for an inside look at how the U.S. understands, tracks, and deters nuclear risks in an …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, Adam sits down with Jay Tilden, former Department of Energy intelligence officer, for an inside look at how the U.S. understands, tracks, and deters nuclear risks in an increasingly complex global environment.

    From the intelligence role of the Department of Energy to the evolving threats posed by China, Russia, and Iran, Tilden breaks down the realities of nuclear proliferation, the risks of nuclear terrorism, and the critical role of nuclear forensics in deterrence. He also explains why modern nuclear challenges extend beyond weapons—highlighting the growing importance of cybersecurity in the energy sector and the continued need for reliable nuclear power to ensure national and economic security.

    Jay Tilden is Managing Director for National Security at Mission Strategies, leading the firm’s national and energy security practice after a 35-year career at the U.S. Department of Energy, including 13 years in the Senior Executive Service.

    He most recently served as Director of DOE’s Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence, leading nuclear, energy, cyber intelligence, and counterintelligence efforts across the enterprise. Previously, he was Deputy Under Secretary for Counterterrorism and Counterproliferation at NNSA.

    Jay is also a 22-year U.S. Army veteran, serving as a Counterintelligence Technician.

  22. Maura Burns: Inside China’s Growing Nuclear Arsenal

    37 minSeason 4 · Episode 271

    In this episode of NucleCast, host Manolis Priniotakis sits down with former CIA executive Maura Burns to unpack China’s rapidly expanding nuclear capabilities and what they mean for global strategic …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, host Manolis Priniotakis sits down with former CIA executive Maura Burns to unpack China’s rapidly expanding nuclear capabilities and what they mean for global strategic stability.

    China is undertaking an unprecedented pace of nuclear modernization—building out its arsenal, advancing delivery systems, and investing in infrastructure that signals long-term strategic ambition. As Burns explains, Beijing’s actions often speak louder than its official doctrine, raising important questions about transparency, intent, and the future of deterrence.

    The conversation explores the drivers behind China’s nuclear buildup, including its pursuit of a more survivable and flexible nuclear triad, as well as emerging technologies such as MIRVs, hypersonic weapons, and fractional orbital bombardment systems. Burns also examines how China’s nuclear growth could reshape arms control paradigms, challenge existing deterrence frameworks, and increase pressure on global strategic stability.

    Maura Burns is a transformational enterprise executive who served as Chief Operating Officer of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)—the agency’s third-highest position—until her retirement in 2025, where she led global operations and drove strategic initiatives to modernize technology and strengthen organizational resilience. With more than 30 years of experience across nuclear energy and weapons systems, space and counterspace security, and biosecurity, she previously directed the Weapons and Counter-Proliferation Mission Center, leading a multidisciplinary team of over 500 experts to address emerging threats and advance international collaboration. Known for her transparent, collaborative leadership style, she has been a strong advocate for workforce development, succession planning, and STEM recruitment. A trusted advisor to senior leaders and policymakers, Burns has shaped complex national security decisions and earned some of the nation’s highest honors, including two Presidential Rank Awards and multiple distinguished intelligence medals, reflecting her lasting impact on global security and technology strategy.

  23. Steve Andros: Inside Nuclear Threat Response

    35 minSeason 4 · Episode 270

    What happens when a nuclear threat becomes real—and who responds first?In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther speaks with retired Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officer Steve Andros about …

    Show notes

    What happens when a nuclear threat becomes real—and who responds first?

    In this episode of NucleCast, host Adam Lowther speaks with retired Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officer Steve Andros about nuclear incident response, interagency coordination, and the growing risks of proliferation and terrorism. From the role of local responders to specialized capabilities like the Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST), the discussion highlights how the U.S. prepares for and deters nuclear threats.

    The conversation also explores how deterrence extends beyond traditional strategy to include denial, disruption, and threat-based approaches, while separating Hollywood myths from the realities of nuclear security operations.

    Steve Andros serves as Policy Advisor and Exercise Planner for the Office of Nuclear Incident Response, supporting the integrated use of U.S. capabilities and the development of national and interagency nuclear response policy. He previously served nearly 30 years as a U.S. Navy EOD officer, including assignments supporting DOE nuclear incident response policy and counter–WMD efforts.

    He holds advanced degrees from Johns Hopkins SAIS and the U.S. Army War College, with a background spanning operational, strategic, and interagency nuclear security missions.

  24. Dr. Todd Sriver: Inside NC3 Modernization, Securing the Future of Nuclear Command and Control

    32 minSeason 4 · Episode 269

    In this episode of NucleCast, the official podcast of the ANWA Deterrence Center, Adam sits down with Todd Sriver, Director of Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3), to examine the current state …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, the official podcast of the ANWA Deterrence Center, Adam sits down with Todd Sriver, Director of Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3), to examine the current state and future of one of the most critical components of the U.S. nuclear enterprise.

    Together, they explore the ongoing modernization of NC3—from legacy systems rooted in 1980s-era technology to a more resilient, digital network-of-networks architecture designed for today’s threat environment. The conversation highlights the technical and strategic challenges of upgrading NC3 while maintaining uninterrupted deterrence.

    The episode also dives into emerging threats, including hypersonic weapons, cyber vulnerabilities, and quantum computing, and what they mean for detection, decision-making, and system resilience. Sriver outlines how the U.S. is prioritizing cybersecurity, advanced sensors, and next-generation technologies to ensure NC3 remains secure, survivable, and effective.

    Dr. Todd Sriver serves as Director of Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) within the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment, where he leads modernization, risk management, and development of the NC3 enterprise. He works closely with U.S. Strategic Command to secure resources and address acquisition challenges critical to nuclear deterrence.

    A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel with 27 years of service, Dr. Sriver held senior Pentagon roles on the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Headquarters Air Force, overseeing national and nuclear command and control systems. He previously served as a Principal Systems Engineer at MITRE, focusing on NC3 and Joint All-Domain Command and Control integration.

    He holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Operations Research from the Air Force Institute of Technology, an M.S. from the Eisenhower School, and a B.S. in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from Purdue University.

  25. Jonathan Cefalu - Is AI Becoming Too Smart for Its Own Good?

    33 minSeason 4 · Episode 268

    AI expert, Jonathan Cefalu, joins the conversation to examine some of the most pressing—and underappreciated—challenges in artificial intelligence safety, from prompt injection vulnerabilities to long‑term …

    Show notes

    AI expert, Jonathan Cefalu, joins the conversation to examine some of the most pressing—and underappreciated—challenges in artificial intelligence safety, from prompt injection vulnerabilities to long‑term risks posed by increasingly capable systems.

    The discussion unpacks how seemingly technical issues like prompt injection can undermine reliability and security, why future AI systems may engage in motivated reasoning or resist human attempts to redirect them, and what “governability” really means as AI grows more sophisticated. Cefalu also explores the unique risks AI presents in military and defense applications, including the implications for deterrence, escalation management, and decision‑making under pressure.

    The episode concludes with a forward‑looking discussion on regulatory approaches, ethical principles, and practical safeguards needed to prevent AI systems from becoming unsafe, unpredictable, or misaligned with human intent—while still enabling innovation and responsible use.

  26. Frank Rose: Reimagining Arms Control for the 21st Century

    33 minSeason 4 · Episode 267

    Former senior national security official Frank Rose joins the conversation to examine the future of arms control, nuclear policy, and strategic stability in an increasingly complex global environment. Drawing …

    Show notes

    Former senior national security official Frank Rose joins the conversation to examine the future of arms control, nuclear policy, and strategic stability in an increasingly complex global environment.

    Drawing on his extensive experience in arms control, missile defense, and nuclear security, Rose offers a candid assessment of how arms control must adapt to a world shaped by great‑power competition, emerging technologies, and evolving threats from China and other strategic competitors. He explores arms control not as an end in itself, but as a practical tool for managing risk to the United States and its allies.

    The discussion also takes a hard look at the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)—its structure, mission, and strategic role—and considers whether organizational reform may be necessary to meet future nuclear security challenges. Rose addresses the technological pressures reshaping deterrence, the realities of stockpile stewardship, and why sustaining credibility may require difficult choices in the years ahead.

    Frank A. Rose is President of Chevalier Strategic Advisors, a strategic advisory firm focused on the intersection of geopolitics, national security, and defense technology. He advises companies, investors, and institutions on strategic risk, government engagement, and emerging defense and dual-use technologies.

    Previously, Rose served as Principal Deputy Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration (2021–2024), where he helped oversee the U.S. nuclear security enterprise. He also served as Assistant Secretary of State for Arms Control and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Space and Defense Policy (2009–2017), leading U.S. policy on nuclear deterrence, arms control, missile defense, space security, and allied defense cooperation. Earlier in his career, he was a Professional Staff Member on the House Armed Services Committee and a policy advisor at the U.S. Department of Defense.

    Rose is a frequent commentator and author on national security and strategic technology issues, with appearances across major media outlets and policy forums.

    He holds a B.A. in History from American University and an M.A. from King’s College London.

    Follow us on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@nuclecast3665?si=h1kCO6NqUtL87w6q

    Follow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcast

    Subscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/

    Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278

    Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to [email protected]

  27. Tom Summers: Artificial Intelligence at the Nuclear Threshold

    33 minSeason 4 · Episode 266

    Most discussions of AI and nuclear deterrence miss a critical question: does AI reinforce human decision‑making—or risk replacing it? In this episode, security expert Tom Summers outlines a practical framework …

    Show notes

    Most discussions of AI and nuclear deterrence miss a critical question: does AI reinforce human decision‑making—or risk replacing it? In this episode, security expert Tom Summers outlines a practical framework for responsible AI use in the nuclear enterprise and explains why it matters for strategic stability.

    The conversation explores how AI can strengthen deterrence through enhanced intelligence analysis, predictive maintenance, cyber defense, and early‑warning anomaly detection—capabilities that can reduce uncertainty and prevent accidents. At the same time, it examines the dangers of unrestrained automation, from autonomous targeting and AI‑enabled hypersonics to disinformation and compressed decision timelines.

    Drawing on historical nuclear near‑misses and emerging technologies, Tom emphasizes the importance of trustworthy data, ethical guardrails, and meaningful human control. This episode is essential listening for policymakers and defense professionals navigating the future intersection of AI, deterrence, and nuclear security.

    The Honorable Thomas A. Summers retired from the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board in October 2025 after serving over 5 years. Mr. Summers previously served as Senior DOE Advisor and Deputy for Research, Development, Test, & Evaluation in Defense Programs at the National Nuclear Security Administration. He’s also a retired U.S. Air Force colonel with over three decades of active duty in a variety of command and scientific roles.

    Socials:

  28. Alyssa Agard: China’s System Destruction Strategy

    28 minSeason 4 · Episode 265

    NucleCast welcomes, emerging scholar Alyssa Agard who talks about Chinese strategic thinking, system destruction warfare, and what these concepts mean for the future of deterrence and strategic stability …

    Show notes

    NucleCast welcomes, emerging scholar Alyssa Agard who talks about Chinese strategic thinking, system destruction warfare, and what these concepts mean for the future of deterrence and strategic stability. Drawing on Chinese military theory, the discussion explores how Beijing approaches conflict—not by matching capabilities symmetrically, but by targeting critical systems to destabilize adversaries from the outset.

    Agard breaks down how the People’s Liberation Army integrates artificial intelligence, hypersonics, and other advanced technologies into its military strategy, and why these developments complicate traditional deterrence models. The conversation also examines the security dilemma created by rapid technological competition and whether China’s current military posture is as stable as it appears.

    Beyond strategy and technology, this episode highlights the importance of cultivating the next generation of defense thinkers. Agard shares her own path into defense policy and explains why recruiting and mentoring young professionals is essential to sustaining credible deterrence in an era of accelerating change.

    Alyssa Agard is the Chairman, President, and CEO of Agard Research Associates Inc. (ARA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit research institute and think tank based in New Jersey. She is a Master of Public Policy candidate at Rutgers University, concentrating in Political Processes and Institutions, with a research focus in foreign affairs and defense policy. Her work centers on Chinese military modernization, strategic competition, and the intersection of emerging technology with nuclear deterrence and strategic stability. Her recent work includes "The Intelligentized Security Dilemma: Systems Destruction Warfare, Technological Entanglement, and the Erosion of Strategic Stability," and she is currently pursuing research on fallout mitigation capabilities, environmental war planning, and their implications for deterrence theory. She also serves as an Archival Research and Policy Intern at Monmouth Battlefield State Park, and publishes the Vita Republica newsletter through ARA.

    Article: https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.agardresearchassociates.org_the-2Dintelligentized-2Dsecurity-2Ddilemma&d=DwMF-g&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=ZvXeIT1LIz3UUCN7C8qCJhqw-7OlcTkFBtdJmO9qO78&m=JsLBXHVP7nHdvNnClzUPRlwHKYGB3Dt-WZ3ZkEg-pBoRuJLUqSFOaX6BMGh1no2T&s=MnAGKUwyt19xLZbJJrOzDxZIsNtHyDlUj-yiggOZ8HU&e=

    Socials:

  29. David Albright: Iran, Inspections, and the Future of Nonproliferation

    35 minSeason 4 · Episode 264

    In this episode of NucleCast, renowned nuclear expert David Albright offers a clear‑eyed assessment of Iran’s nuclear program—where it began, where it stands today, and the risks that lie ahead. Drawing on …

    Show notes

    In this episode of NucleCast, renowned nuclear expert David Albright offers a clear‑eyed assessment of Iran’s nuclear program—where it began, where it stands today, and the risks that lie ahead. Drawing on decades of experience tracking nuclear proliferation, Albright explains how Iran built its nuclear capabilities, the role of foreign assistance and clandestine networks, and why enrichment capacity remains at the center of global concern.

    The conversation examines current regional tensions, including Israeli threat perceptions and the broader implications of ongoing conflict for nuclear escalation. Albright also explores how quickly Iran could move toward a nuclear weapon, the challenges facing international inspections and diplomacy, and the critical leadership role the United States must play in preventing further proliferation.

    Looking ahead, this episode considers possible future scenarios—from diplomatic breakthroughs to worst‑case outcomes—and closes with reflections on what a lasting path toward security and nonproliferation might look like in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

    David Albright, a physicist, is Founder and President of the non-profit Institute for Science and International Security in Washington, DC. He has conducted numerous assessments of secret nuclear weapons programs throughout the world, and the means states use to obtain nuclear weapons capabilities. During his career, Albright has testified numerous times on nuclear issues before the U.S. Congress and advised numerous governments. He has spoken to many groups, technical workshops, and conferences. He has published many reports on the Institute’s website and also in Science, Scientific American, the New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, Science and Global Security, Washington Quarterly, and Arms Control Today. The media have frequently cited Albright, and he has appeared often on television and radio. Albright has authored or co-authored nine books, including Revisiting South Africa’s Nuclear Weapons Program, Illicit Trade Networks—Connecting the Dots, Peddling Peril: How the Secret Nuclear Trade Arms America’s Enemies, Solving the North Korean Nuclear Puzzle, Taiwan’s Former Nuclear Weapons Program, and Iran’s Perilous Pursuit of Nuclear Weapons. He received a Master of Science in physics from Indiana University in 1980, a Master of Science in mathematics from Wright State University in 1977, and a Bachelor of Science from Wright State University in 1975. Albright also received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Wright State University in 2007.

    Socials:

  30. Manolis Priniotakis: Inside Nuclear Intelligence, From the Manhattan Project to Today

    34 minSeason 4 · Episode 263

    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 …

    Show notes

    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.

    Manolis Priniotakis is a U.S. national security leader with more than two decades of experience shaping intelligence strategy, operations, and education. He is the CEO and Founder of Intelligence & National Security Directions, LLC, and a Non‑Resident Senior Fellow at the University of South Florida’s Global and National Security Institute. Formerly a senior leader in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and Chief of Staff for DOE Intelligence and Counterintelligence, he has overseen national‑level intelligence operations, strategy, and budgets. In 2024, he received the Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Service.

    Socials:

These are the latest 40 of 292 episodes. You’ll find older episodes in the podcast’s feed.

Similar podcasts

More News podcasts
Is this your podcast?

Confirm it with an entry in your feed: you get a code here, add it as podcast:txt to the channel of your feed, and we check it. Your podcast is then shown as “verified” on SoundNode.

Popular genres

PopOldiesHip HopRock80sSchlagerNewsAlternativeDanceMetalTechno90sElectroHouse

Settings

Display

Language

DeutschEnglishEspañolFrançaisPortuguês

Decides which stations you see first on the home page.

History

Recently played stations and episodes and your latest searches are only stored in this browser.

Notifications

A short notice when a podcast you follow has a new episode. Turn off single podcasts with the bell on their page.

Account

Save favorites – in the app and on the website.

App StoreGoogle PlayAmazon Fire TVSonos

Keyboard shortcuts

/
Open search
Space
Play or pause
← →
In the player: back 15 s, forward 30 s (episodes) · in a row: next tile
↑ ↓
In a row: target within the tile
Home / End
In a row: first or last tile
Esc
Close window or menu
?
This overview
Now playing

Go to station page

Play next

    Add episodes with “Play next” – they play after the current episode.