The Ancient Art of Modern Warfare

Is Just War even possible in modern conflict? Big. Gen. (Chaplain) Patrick Dolan, retired Army Assistant Chief of Chaplains, discusses the possibilities.

Can a war ever be "Just"? Is the ancient concept of Just War still important in contemporary conflicts? What the citizens of the republic should know when the nation decides to use military force.

Mercenary, PMSC, PSC, PMC? Is there a difference? Does it matter? The Russians, along with some academics and media sources say no. Those of us trying to promote responsibility and accountability in the use of force disagree.

Answers to questions from podcast listeners from Dr. Deborah Avant, University of Denver and author of "The Market for Force" and Mr. Doug Brooks, President Emeritus of the International Stability Operations Association. They respond to questions about PMSCs, their status in international law, and interaction with military forces. In short, they answer, "Why follow the rules?"

Thoughts on the 30th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall, the Cold War and Sun Tzu, and concerns that the lessons are forgotten

The recent decision of the U.S. President regarding U.S. military forces in Syria offers an opportunity look at how the enduring substance of war continues to apply to modern conflict. I am not questioning the policy decision. Military force is the servant of policy and policy should always drive the use of military force. The question whether the enduring nature of war was addressed in developing that policy, including the deployment and redeployment of U.S. military force in Syria. So far, it looks hopeful that it was considered. As citizens of the republic, we must be watchful to see that actions follow words.

Only by understanding the nature of war can we learn the natural laws of war. Like other natural law, these are precepts or rules we can derive from observation and the use of reason. These natural laws of war may vary in application, but are applicable everywhere, at all times. The first rule is that, "Young men die."  It is not a matter of choosing to follow them. They describe war as it is and always has been. History demonstrates that any success gained while ignoring any of these rules will be difficult and any victory will be temporary. Citizens of a republic should understand these fundamental natural laws of war and be on alert when anyone proposes to use military force.

This podcast introduces a discussion on the concept of war. What war is, rather than its appearances and forms. War is not just about fighting and killing. There is an unchanging nature and substance of war, beyond its appearances. Understanding the nature of war is the responsibility of all citizens so that they can make informed decisions about the use of force in their country's name. This really should have been episode 1 or 2, but current events kept getting in the way. For more information see my blog at blog.ctmayer.net

Russian quasi-mercenary organizations present risks to stability and security to developing states and some developed countries. These threats can be managed, sidelining Russian options while maintaining our own freedom of action. Col. Mayer introduces some ideas for this to stimulate thought and perhaps guide future action. Includes countering supply and demand, containment, and leveraging international initiatives.

Western Private Military and Security Companies do not operate in a legal vacuum. Since 2008 governments have recognized international law obligations regarding these entities and have developed frameworks, regulations, and standards covering them. These provide a benchmark for strategies to contain Russian mercenary-like organizations.