Oct 6, 2026
What is realpolitik, and why is the world said to be returning to it? Professor John Bew CMG traces the idea back to its origins.
The world may well be entering a new age of realpolitik, but the harder question is defining which kind. The term is usually associated with an unsentimental use of power to further national...
Sep 22, 2026
NATO expert Dr Florence Gaub explains how strategic foresight helps NATO anticipate and avoid strategic surprise in an uncertain world.
Strategic surprise happens when new information fundamentally changes how we see the world. In an increasingly uncertain global landscape, predicting exact outcomes is nearly impossible...
Jul 14, 2026
Former UN Ambassador and National Security Advisor Sir Mark Lyall Grant discusses the challenges facing delivery of Western security strategies.
In this season of Talking Strategy we have explored many of the key themes of today’s security and defence strategies, but the test of a strategy is what changes as a result....
Jun 30, 2026
In our 100th episode, we talk to RUSI senior research fellow Dr Jack Watling about the transformation in Ukraine in response to Russia’s War.
Against what many considered a materially superior adversary, Ukraine has not only withstood Russian aggression, but has fought back with courage, ingenuity and commitment from...
Jun 16, 2026
Professor Olivier Schmitt describes the systemic challenges of military transformation, given rapidly evolving technology and NATO’s distinct strategic cultures.
Modern defence and security reviews highlight the deteriorating security environment and the need to prepare forces. But, as we hear from Lord King (Season...