Brian Spencer
More from Brian Spencer
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AI fighter pilot initiatives aim to reduce risk, boost air superiority
The profession of being a fighter pilot is iconic, with historical figures like the Red Baron and fictional characters like Maverick. Yet, just as the bi-wing gave way to the turbo-prop and the F-117 to the F-35, the role of these pilots is evolving. Today’s pilots of the F-22 and F-35, modern icons in their… -
Russia’s nuclear intentions up in space: Weapons and Warfare
In this episode of Weapons and Warfare, we take a deeper look at Russia and its nuclear ambitions in space. Host Ryan Robertson visits with three experts for their insights on what’s possible and likely when it comes to Russia and its nuclear capabilities in space. Also featured in this episode: You can subscribe to… -
How credible is a Russian space-based nuclear threat?
Back in February, Rep. Michael Turner, R-Ohio, caught the attention of the public when he indicated Russia was moving toward making a space-based nuclear weapon. Russia denied the claim, dismissing the statements as a ploy to pressure Russia into an arms deal with the West. The mere idea, though, caused some to wonder, “What if… -
A-UGVs give Marines an advantage on the battlefield: Weapon of the week
Controlling a battle-ready vehicle on a screen is no longer just for video games. American Rheinmetall Vehicles created the Mission Master SP, an autonomous, unmanned ground vehicle (A-UGV). These A-UGVs are built to be used for a wide range of situations. The Mission Master SP has a variety of modular attachments and can be fitted… -
US Air Force finding best cyber talent to use as defense: Weapons and Warfare
In this episode of Weapons and Warfare, Russia and China are consistently trying to infiltrate America’s online resources, so the U.S. Air Force is making a move to attract — and keep — the best IT and cyber talent available. Host Ryan Robertson takes a look at the Air Force’s plan to bring back the… -
AFRL drone interceptor is both offensive and defensive: Weapon of the week
This weapon of the week is the Paladin Multi-Mission Unmanned Aircraft System from the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL). It functions more as a drone interceptor to help the U.S. Air Force protect its manned aircraft systems. The Air Force wants these particularly in areas with large populations living around the base, such as the… -
Air Force bringing back a centuries-old rank to attract cyber, IT experts
In February, the Air and Space Forces announced two dozen service-wide changes at the AFA Warfare Symposium. One change is the Air Force’s decision to bring back the “warrant officer” rank. The decision was motivated by the increasing threat of cyber attacks from China and Russia. The rank of warrant officer is a way to… -
Air Force turns to MindGym to support mental fitness: Weapons and Warfare
This week on Weapons and Warfare, explore the MindGym and see why the U.S. Air Force is turning to the team behind it to make sure its airmen are maintaining their mental fitness. Host Ryan Robertson sits down with some of the leadership at Lumena — the creator of the MindGym — to see how… -
Decades-old Javelin is still an effective tank killer: Weapon of the week
In 1996, the FGM-148 Javelin was created, and the advanced anti-tank missile weapon system is still sought after almost three decades later. The Javelin is mostly a tank killer, however, they have multiple firing modes and can be used against a wide array of targets. The Javelin was originally designed by Texas Instruments — known… -
Air Force partners with startup to transform mental health care for troops
At the AFA Warfare Symposium in Colorado, Lumena, a startup based in Denver, showcased its MindGym. The MindGym is a sensory experience designed to enhance mental health, offering a unique environment for users to explore their thoughts and emotions. “It allows you a breath into yourself, and the ability to think way deeper than all… -
Air and Space Forces gearing up for future threats: Weapons and Warfare
In this episode of Weapons and Warfare, the Air and Space Forces are making changes to improve their readiness in the face of constantly evolving threats from around the world. Senior leadership is giving service members a glimpse into the direction each branch is headed. Also featured in this episode: You can subscribe to the… -
Falcons inspire MUTANT missile development: Weapon of the week
; The Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) has a new missile using an articulation control actuation system, meaning the head and fins of the missile can move to meet a target. The technique mirrors the actions of a falcon bird, which researchers used as inspiration for the missile’s capabilities. “[Engineers] noticed a really interesting thing… -
Air and Space Forces reveal new priorities to prepare for evolving threats
The 2024 AFA Warfare Symposium showcased a clear theme of impending change amidst a backdrop of industry buzzwords and acronyms. The symposium unveiled 24 new priorities for the Air and Space Forces’ leadership, aimed at creating a more agile force that relies on established teamwork at home bases. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David…
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