In this episode, I am joined by Hayat Alvi, Associate Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College. We explore the constantly changing dynamics of the Middle East and its impact on global defence. With over 18 years of experience teaching military and government personnel, Hayat shares valuable insights into the region’s complex political, economic, and cultural landscape.

We explore topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the power balance within the Gulf states, and the shifts in Syria after the Assad regime’s collapse. Hayat also emphasises the importance of critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture in military education.

Key moments

• 5:18 - The Complexities of Regional Dynamics
• 13:05 - Historical Context of Peace Agreements
• 27:41 - Iran's Geopolitical Weakening
• 31:34 - Shifts in Global Alliances
• 35:26 - The Collapse of the Assad Regime
• 42:34 - Lessons for Military Leadership

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, we’re joined by General Sir Nick Carter, one of the most influential British Army commanders of recent times. From commanding a battalion in Kosovo to leading as Chief of Defence Staff during some of the most pivotal moments in recent history, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the withdrawal from Afghanistan, General Carter offers a personal look at his remarkable leadership journey.

He shares the challenges of leading multinational operations, navigating the unpredictable terrains of recent wars, and adapting to the evolving threats of the 21st century. We also discuss the strategic power of storytelling, the complexities of military resource management, and what it truly means to lead at the highest level. It’s a conversation filled with insight, reflection, and invaluable lessons from someone who’s been at the heart of it all.

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

What does China’s growing military power mean for global stability? In this episode, experts former Rear Admiral Mike Studeman and Nigel Inkster discuss China’s rapid militarisation, its focus on Taiwan, and preparations for potential conflict. They explore China’s relationships with Russia and North Korea, and how these alliances are reshaping the global balance of power.

With China’s expanding nuclear arsenal and stronger military, this conversation examines the strategies and ideologies driving its rise. As China becomes a dominant global force, Mike and Nigel offer insights into how the West can adapt to stay competitive in this shifting world order.

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, Brigadier Robbie Boyd and Rachel Rizzo join Peter and explore the shifting landscape of global security, revealing how NATO is adapting to the growing threats from Russia and China. As the U.S. pivots towards Asia and reduces its presence in the Middle East, Europe is stepping up to take on a far more prominent military role—an evolution that will reshape the future of defence.

We uncover why strengthening alliances with European partners has never been more critical, and how NATO is rethinking its strategy to tackle the emerging challenges of the 21st century. From the rise of cutting-edge military technologies to the unpredictable dynamics of global power, this conversation explores how Europe is preparing for the next era of warfare and what it means for the future of international security.

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.

How are shifting global tensions and new technological threats changing the way the world views war? In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Peter Apps talks with with Major General Andrew Sharpe, Director of the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, Rocco Santurri, a former U.S. Army active-duty officer and now reservist serving with UN forces in Korea as well as a global affairs consultant, and Victoria Mackarness, a defence and communications expert, offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of modern warfare.

We discuss the shift from counterinsurgency tactics to conventional warfare, the growing threat of cyberattacks, and the widening gap between military and civilian societies. Drawing on their extensive experience, our guests explore how military strategies are adapting to challenges such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the potential for escalation in regions like the Korean Peninsula.

This conversation also explores the complexities of deterrence, how the U.S. and UK military forces are preparing for large-scale combat, and how these nations are addressing future threats. As global tensions rise, we reflect on whether the public truly understands the risks and the changing nature of conflict in an increasingly unpredictable world.

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.