James Holmes

Dr. James Holmes, a former Navy surface warfare officer and J.C. Wylie Chair of Maritime Strategy, dives into the habits that shape effective maritime strategists. He discusses the unique perspectives of naval officers and how diverse education fosters innovative thinking. Holmes emphasizes the importance of strategic leadership during peacetime and the role of habits in decision-making. He advocates for a culture of innovation within bureaucracies and highlights the need for lifelong learning in strategy, blending formal education with personal curiosity.

James Holmes, a maritime strategy professor and author, breaks down how to keep the Strait of Hormuz open. He compares convoys, area defense, and tactical offense. He weighs arming tankers versus letting navies handle high-end threats. He discusses drone swarms, insurance and rerouting, environmental risks from tanker sinkings, and what low-tech attacks mean for naval balance.

In this discussion, Dr. James Holmes, a leading authority on maritime strategy and the J. C. Wylie Chair of Maritime Strategy at the Naval War College, dives into the intricacies of China's sea power. He explains China's 'active defense' strategy and how historical military tactics, likened to Muhammad Ali's boxing style, influence their maritime approach. The conversation touches on the risks of U.S.-China tensions, especially regarding Taiwan, and emphasizes the need for strong U.S. military presence in the Indo-Pacific. Communication in military operations also takes center stage.

Steve Yates, U.S.-China summit analyst with national security experience. Peter Huessy, nuclear deterrence specialist. James Holmes, maritime strategist focused on the South China Sea. Gordon Chang, China commentator. They discuss Indonesia pivoting toward the U.S., the strategic choke point of the Malacca Strait, China’s opaque nuclear buildup and proliferation links, summit diplomacy without formal documents, and tech and space competition.

James Holmes, Wiley Chair of Maritime Strategy and naval strategy expert, offers a concise take on Indonesia's careful shift toward U.S. cooperation. He discusses countering China's maritime claims, securing the Strait of Malacca through training and overflight pacts, and the role of professional military education. Multilateral exercises and incremental engagement figure prominently.