Author: Gregory Halloran

Diplomatic Analysis: The proliferation of accessible AI capabilities necessitates a shift in US defense acquisition strategy, favouring internal software development over wholesale commercial purchasing. Overview The US Department of Defense (DoD) is undergoing a significant re-evaluation of its acquisition strategies, driven by rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI). A recent policy shift towards “commercial-first” procurement […]

Diplomatic Analysis: A shift towards in-house software development, leveraging commercial AI infrastructure, offers cost savings and strategic advantage. The US Department of Defense (DoD) is undergoing a fundamental reassessment of its acquisition strategy, driven by the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Traditionally favouring a “buy” approach for software and related systems, the DoD is […]

Diplomatic Analysis: Iran seeks a regional security architecture based on non-aggression and integrated economic ties, moving away from reliance on external powers. Overview This analysis examines M. Javad Zarif’s recent Foreign Affairs article outlining an Iranian vision for de-escalation and lasting peace in the Middle East. Written in the context of renewed military confrontation between […]

Ukraine’s leadership turnover signals potential challenges to its technologically driven war effort. Overview The abrupt dismissal of Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov in July 2026 has triggered a political crisis and ignited concern over the future direction of Ukraine’s defence strategy. A key architect of Ukraine’s successful drone warfare capabilities, Fedorov was replaced by Ihor […]

Diplomatic Analysis: Overseas maintenance is essential for realising the operational potential of the US Navy’s expanding unmanned fleet. The US Navy is rapidly integrating unmanned systems into its fleet, central to a “Hedge Strategy” designed to disperse assets and enhance forward presence, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. However, a critical gap exists in the logistical framework […]

Congressional Scrutiny of the Pentagon Drives Acquisition and Tech Policy The Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) currently progressing through the US Congress reveals a persistent theme: a desire to impose greater oversight and accountability on the Department of Defense (DoD). This reflects growing frustration with the pace of reform, perceived bureaucratic inertia, […]

Diplomatic Analysis: A seemingly innocuous military innovation reveals complex connections between defence, society, and identity. Overview This analysis examines the impact of the Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system – particularly the Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS) – on both the U.S. military and civilian society. Developed in the 1990s and widely adopted after 9/11, […]

Diplomatic Analysis: A structured public-private partnership is essential to navigate the escalating national security challenges posed by advanced AI. Overview The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly frontier models, presents increasingly complex national security challenges. Recent events – such as the temporary takedown of Anthropic’s ‘Mythos’ AI model due to cyber security concerns – […]

Diplomatic Analysis: Moscow’s force growth in Ukraine demonstrates logistical prowess, but diminishing battlefield returns, with implications for NATO. Overview The Russo-Ukrainian War has witnessed a remarkable expansion of the Russian military. From a relatively small, contract-based force in 2022, Russia has grown its deployed personnel to over 700,000, and authorized a further increase to 1.5 […]

Diplomatic Analysis: Past failures in the Middle East suggest that Washington and Jerusalem’s recent attempt to overthrow the Iranian regime was destined to fall short, highlighting the limits of military force in achieving political transformation. Overview In February 2026, the United States and Israel launched ‘Operation Epic Fury’ against Iran, with a stated goal—particularly for […]