In this episode, Pako and Scar return to examine the concepts, abilities, and future of Remotely Piloted Aircraft in warfare. The discussion reviews the history of technology, from early trials in the 1910s to the current day. The difference between remotely piloted aircraft and autonomous aircraft is clarified, emphasizing the human involvement in drone operations. The conversation also investigates the different levels of autonomy and the possibility for cooperative combat aircraft. The use of drones in war zones, such as Ukraine, is analyzed, including the emergence of expendable drones for kinetic operations. The difficulty of the suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) mission is underscored as one of the most demanding air missions.

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense (https://www.cubic.com).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode, Mike "Pako" Benitez and Andrew "Scar" Van Timmeren discuss the differences between fourth and fifth-generation fighter jets, focusing on the F-22 and F-35, with insights on the learning curve and intuitive nature of the Lightning II compared to the complexity of the Raptor.

Pako and Scar further discuss situational awareness and task management in modern fighters, with a look ahead to the future of air superiority with a discussion on sixth-generation fighters.

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of "On Future War," hosts Scott "Roger" Chafian, Mike "Pako" Benitez, and Matt "Flounder" Arny dive into the strategic and controversial world of China's man-made island bases. They discuss the historical locations, construction strategies, and strategic intents behind these "unsinkable carriers.” We explore the military viability, potential vulnerabilities, and the considerable political fallout from building territory in contentious waters.

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense (https://www.cubic.com).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

'On Future War' is a 12-part series exploring the evolving landscape of military strategy and defense technologies with a focus on the Pacific.

On this inaugural episode, Mike "Pako" Benitez (The Merge) and Scott "Roger" Chafian set the stage by delving into the challenges posed by technologies (including cruise- and hypersonic missiles) to power projection and the sustainability of forward deployed bases in modern, peer-level conflicts.

Brought to you by Authentic Media with the support of Cubic Defense (https://www.cubic.com).

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.