4 chapters across the catalog
Boeing vs. Airbus, Military Contracts and Pilot Training
The hosts discuss the competitive landscape of the aviation industry, noting that while Boeing struggles with passenger jet safety, its primary focus remains lucrative military contracts. They mention reports of pilots specifically training for Airbus aircraft due to concerns over Boeing's current manufacturing standards and software-heavy "fly-by-wire" systems.
Monkey Works, Flight Radar Analysis of Pipeline Attack
An analysis by a flight-tracking enthusiast known as Monkey Works suggests U.S. aircraft were involved in the Nord Stream incident. Using ADS-B data, the analysis points to a specific flight path involving a mid-air refueling over Germany and a subsequent "uplift" in altitude that typically occurs after a heavy weapons release. The theory posits that a system called the Hawk could have been deployed at cruise speed.
A donor provides information on "Manned-Unmanned Teaming" (MUMT), a military technology that allows jet and helicopter pilots to control drones from their cockpits. This technology is being integrated into Apache helicopters and fighter jets for advanced surveillance and combat.
Russian Military Proficiency, Putin and Ethnic Nationalism
General Martin Dempsey noted that since 2008, the Russian military has significantly increased its proficiency in long-range aviation and cruise missile testing. He expressed concern that Vladimir Putin may be inciting ethnic nationalism that could eventually spiral out of his control. The shift in Russian activity is seen as a move to assert power differently across Europe and toward the United States.
