Today on Coffee & Conflict, Joshua Huminski is joined by Seth G. Jones, author of The American Edge: The Military Tech Nexus and the Sources of Great Power Dominance, to examine whether the United States is prepared for an era of renewed great-power competition. Jones explains how military dominance has historically depended on the relationship between technological innovation and industrial capacity, and why he believes the U.S. defense industrial base is still operating on a peacetime footing even as China rapidly expands its military capabilities. The conversation also explores the role of America’s private technology sector—and whether deeper partnerships between the Pentagon and innovative firms are essential to maintaining U.S. military advantage.

Is the emerging challenge from countries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea a true “axis,” or a series of overlapping interests that converge against the Western-led order? How prepared is the United States for a sustained strategic competition with China, particularly if it is relying on expensive and vulnerable systems while adversaries field cheaper, rapidly adaptable technologies? And if Jones were advising Secretary Hegseth and the Pentagon today, what steps would he prioritize to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and restore America’s technological edge?

You can learn more about The American Edge, and purchase a copy of the book, here: https://www.amazon.com/American-Edge-Military-Sources-Dominance/dp/0197764606

Check out today’s experts on Twitter:

@joshuachuminski

@SethGJones

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*Note: This episode was recorded on January 9, 2026

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Season 2 Episode 7 - The American Edge: The Military Tech Nexus and the Sources of Great Power Dominance with Dr. Seth Jones