Underground Strategy

Amos C. Fox joins Underground Strategy to challenge conventional thinking on modern warfare. From maneuver warfare’s shaky foundations to the realities of attrition, we dig into the strategic narratives shaping today’s conflicts. Are we fighting the wars we think we are, or just the ones doctrine tells us to prepare for?

Amos C. Fox, PhD, is a Fellow with Arizona State University's Future Security Initiative and a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at the University of Houston. He hosts Revolution in Military Affairs, Soldier Pulse, and WarCast, serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Military Studies, and is a senior editor at Small Wars Journal. A retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel, Amos brings over two decades of experience to the conversation.

Conflict Realism: Understanding the Causal Logic of Modern War and Warfare:

https://amzn.to/3WxWJeh

Revolution in Military Affairs Podcast:

https://shows.acast.com/revolution-in-military-affairs

Irregular Warfare Initiative:

https://irregularwarfare.org/

Follow Amos Fox:

X: https://x.com/AmosFox6

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amoscfox/

Join the mission:

https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788:

https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this second part of our conversation with Andrew Chatterton, we explore the extreme lengths Britain went to in preparing for a German invasion. From hidden resistance networks to the brutal realities of underground warfare, this episode unpacks the operations that never made the history books.

We also discuss the use of women and teenagers in secret roles, the harsh choices these units had to make, and how their actions would have shaped the fight for Britain. Plus, what would have happened if German infiltrators had made it onto British soil? Andrew walks us through a fascinating counterfactual scenario to test how effective these secret groups really were.

Andrew Chatterton’s Books

Britain’s Secret Defences: Civilian Saboteurs, Spies and Assassins during the Second World War - https://amzn.to/3DYyMXd

Fortress Britain 1940: Britain’s Unsung and Secret Defences on Land, Sea and in the Air - https://amzn.to/4hgI2V3

Explore more

StayBehinds research group - www.staybehinds.com

Watch the toilet bunker video - https://youtu.be/iVLsKehOhIM?si=GzGFzVfDKAJTdW2S

Connect with Andrew Chatterton

X - https://twitter.com/Chats1

Instagram - https://instagram.com/historicalandrew

Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/historicalchats.bsky.social

Threads - https://threads.net/@historicalandrew

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Underground Strategy, we go full cloak and dagger with British auxiliary units, the country’s secret last line of resistance during WWII. Max and Tony are joined by historian Andrew Chatterton, an expert on Britain’s covert civilian forces, to explore the unsung heroes who were prepared to fight from the shadows if the Nazis invaded.

We uncover the origins of these secret units, their training, recruitment, and the ingenious tactics they planned to use against an occupying force. From hidden bunkers and sabotage plans to civilian spies and coded messages in church keys, this episode sheds light on the secret war that never happened—but could have changed history.

Andrew Chatterton’s Books

Britain’s Secret Defences: Civilian Saboteurs, Spies and Assassins during the Second World War - https://amzn.to/3DYyMXd

Fortress Britain 1940: Britain’s Unsung and Secret Defences on Land, Sea and in the Air - https://amzn.to/4hgI2V3

Explore more

StayBehinds research group - www.staybehinds.com

Watch the toilet bunker video - https://youtu.be/iVLsKehOhIM?si=GzGFzVfDKAJTdW2S

Connect with Andrew Chatterton

X - https://twitter.com/Chats1

Instagram - https://instagram.com/historicalandrew

Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/historicalchats.bsky.social

Threads - https://threads.net/@historicalandrew

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Max and Tony are joined by Robert Davidson, a South African author and battlefield guide, to explore the history and significance of the Spioenkop campaign during the Anglo Boer War.

Robert shares his lifelong passion for military history, recounting how decades of research culminated in his book on the tragic Spioenkop battle. The discussion highlights the strategic missteps, human stories, and the role of groundbreaking battlefield photography that seared the campaign into public consciousness.

The trio also examines the broader context of the Anglo Boer War, including the political tensions, trench warfare, and the personal narratives of those who lived through it. This episode offers a thoughtful exploration of military geography and history, paired with candid reflections and vivid storytelling.

For those curious about the intersection of history and humanity, this masterclass will leave you with much to reflect on.

Links:

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Robert Davidson’s book - The Spioenkop Campaign: The Battles to Relieve Ladysmith, 17-27 January 1900: https://amzn.to/3E0i5dS

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Max and Tony dive into the myths and realities of hand-to-hand combat. From Hollywood's dramatizations to the harsh realities of the battlefield, they explore how militaries approach close-quarters combat and its role in modern training and operations.

The discussion touches on the evolution of techniques like Krav Maga, the importance of mental and physical toughness, and how these skills translate to other scenarios like close protection. Max reflects on his own training and real-life experiences, offering candid insights into what really works in the heat of the moment.

Tony shares historical examples, from the brutal trench warfare of WWI to modern contexts like Ukraine, and they debate whether hand-to-hand combat remains relevant in today’s world of long-range weaponry and drones.

Whether you’re a martial arts enthusiast, a student of military history, or just curious about the realities behind the movies, this episode offers a thought-provoking take on the art and utility of close combat.

Join the mission: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Discover Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re kicking off 2025 with the second part of our discussion with Seán Scullion, active-duty officer, historian, and author of Churchill’s Spaniards.

This episode dives deeper into the incredible story of Spanish Republicans who joined the British Army during WWII, continuing their fight against fascism across Europe, North Africa, and beyond.

Séan shares powerful accounts of these men’s bravery and resilience, as well as the challenges they faced as soldiers and survivors. We also touch on the cultural and political complexities surrounding their contributions, both during and after the war.

Start the new year by uncovering more about this overlooked chapter of history.

Thank you for joining us as we begin another exciting year of Underground Strategy.

Churchill’s Spaniards is available now, published by Helion & Co. Get your copy on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZSDRaV

Follow Séan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sean.scullion/

Séan´s Reading list:

-Churchill and Spain: The Survival of the Franco Regime, 1940-1945 - https://amzn.to/4iTD1mY

-Octubre 1934 - https://amzn.to/41OFJnJ

Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Follow us for updates and more content:

Underground Strategy - https://undergroundstrategy.com

Max Lauker on Instagram - https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy on Instagram - https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final Underground Strategy episode of the year, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia are joined by Séan Scullion—active-duty officer, historian, and author of Churchill’s Spaniards.

Séan shares the remarkable story of Spanish Republicans who, after fighting in the Spanish Civil War, joined the British Army during WWII. These men, fighting for freedom and survival, served in the Pioneer Corps, SAS, and other units across Europe, North Africa, and beyond.

We explore their resilience, bravery, and the challenges they faced as soldiers and survivors. Séan also talks about the eight-year journey that went into writing this book and his connections with the families of these forgotten heroes.

This is part one of a two-part series that highlights an extraordinary but overlooked chapter of WWII history.

Churchill’s Spaniards is available now, published by Helion & Co. Get your copy on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ZSDRaV

Séan´s Reading list:

-Churchill and Spain: The Survival of the Franco Regime, 1940-1945 - https://amzn.to/4iTD1mY

-Octubre 1934 - https://amzn.to/41OFJnJ

Thank you for an incredible year! Stay safe, stay frosty, and we’ll see you in 2025!

Discover Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Follow us for updates and more content

Underground Strategy Website - https://undergroundstrategy.com

Max Lauker on Instagram - https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy on Instagram - https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of Underground Strategy, Max and Tony bring a festive yet poignant twist to the podcast as they explore the traditions, letters, and unique experiences of military personnel during Christmas. From historical moments like the 1914 Christmas Truce to personal reflections from their own deployments, this episode delves into the resilience and camaraderie that emerge in the most challenging circumstances.

Max shares stories of cozy family Christmases alongside recollections of Swedish coffee and festive trimmings on deployments. Tony recounts a warm South African Christmas with deminers, while reflecting on the mix of celebration and loss often faced by those in active duty. They also touch on the famous 1941 Christmas address by Winston Churchill and letters from soldiers in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and even World War II.

This episode pays tribute to service members who find ways to honor the season, no matter where they are stationed, while reminding us of the sacrifices made by those serving during the holidays.

Wishing all listeners a Merry Christmas, whether you're celebrating at home or far away.

Discover Max’s book co-authored by Tony, Number 788: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Follow us for updates and more content: https://undergroundstrategy.com

Max Lauker on Instagram: https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, recorded just days before Christmas, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia bring a relaxed yet reflective tone to the Underground Strategy podcast. From holiday traditions to the deep connections between military service, ceremonial duties, and global conflict, this conversation covers a lot of ground.

The episode begins with Max and Tony sharing Christmas traditions—from Swedish celebrations on the 24th to Scottish winter mornings with blazers and cookies for Santa. But the discussion soon transitions into a thoughtful exploration of ceremonial guard duties, their significance, and the cultural differences in how military traditions are honored.

Drawing from personal experiences, Max recalls guarding Stockholm’s Royal Castle during a snowy Christmas and reflects on how ceremonial roles contribute to both public engagement and unit cohesion. The conversation expands to military traditions worldwide, from Swiss Guards to riot drills and even the grandiose parades of more autocratic states.

Max and Tony also explore how societies view and respect their armed forces, particularly during times of war and peace. Max shares his nuanced perspective on the balance between honoring military service and ensuring the ultimate objective remains peace—a timely reminder as the holidays approach.

Discover Max’s book, Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Follow us for updates and more content

Max Lauker on Instagram: https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Underground Strategy Podcast, Max and Tony sit down with Andrew Balaam, a former Selous Scout and veteran of the Rhodesian Bush War.

From Andrew’s early life in Southern Rhodesia to his experiences in the legendary Selous Scouts, this episode goes straight into the realities of pseudo-operations, inter-unit rivalries, and life on the frontlines of a conflict that shaped Southern Africa’s history.

Andy shares unique insights into the tactical and personal challenges of operating behind enemy lines, as well as his thoughts on leadership, resilience, and the nuances of warfare.

Some highlights from the episode:

-Life as a Selous Scout: What made this unit unique, and how pseudo-operations reshaped the battlefield.

-Operation Detachment: The first vehicle-based cross-border raid into Mozambique and its impact on Rhodesian strategy.

-Leadership and Solo Operations: The challenges of operating independently in hostile environments, including Andrew’s unforgettable 57-day mission.

-Historical Reflections: Andrew's candid thoughts on the political and personal aftermath of the Rhodesian conflict and his transition to life post-military.

Andrew also discusses his books, including Bush War Operator and his latest work Skuzapo, which brings to life the stories and perspectives of both black and white Selous Scouts.

Check out Andrew’s books:

Bush War Operator: Memoirs of the Rhodesian Light Infantry, Selous Scouts and beyond

Skuzapo: The Untold Story

Check out Max´s biography Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Visit undergroundstrategy.com for additional resources, reviews, and articles or follow us on Instagram.

Max Lauker: https://instagram.com/maxlauker

Underground Strategy: https://instagram.com/undergroundstrategy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this UGS Special Edition, we continue our military legends series by exploring General Louis Botha’s transformative journey from wartime commander to statesman.

In this episode, Max and Tony discuss Botha’s pivotal role in World War I, including his leadership during the Southwest Africa campaign, the challenges of commanding a divided nation, and the moral complexities of fighting alongside the British so soon after the Anglo-Boer War.

They also reach into the dynamics of Botha’s partnership with Jan Smuts—how their unique relationship shaped South Africa’s military and political traditions, and how Botha’s leadership left an enduring mark on the nation.

Let us know if there are other military legends you’d like us to cover in upcoming episodes!

For more on the topic, Tony's book Botha, Smuts and the First World War (available in South African bookstores) provides an in-depth look.

The UK edition, Botha, Smuts and the Great War, is available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3C05lDr

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Underground Strategy, Max and Tony tackle the evolving dynamics of military recruitment and selection processes, providing a unique perspective shaped by their personal experiences and years of observation. As the holiday season approaches, the duo reflects on the spirit of Christmas creeping into their routines—lights, advent traditions, and thoughts of thoughtful gifts (books, anyone?) make their way into the conversation, adding a lighter touch before diving into the week’s topic.

As global conflicts intensify and armies worldwide face mounting pressure to scale up recruitment, the conversation delves into how modern militaries are adapting their strategies to balance the demand for manpower with the need to maintain operational excellence.

Max reflects on his time in Swedish special operations, sharing insights on the psychological and physical demands of special forces selections, where mental resilience often outweighs brute physical strength. Tony adds his perspective, discussing how military psychological evaluations can sometimes reveal more about a recruit’s potential than their ability to run a perfect 10K or perform dozens of pull-ups. They highlight how soft skills and technical expertise—like cyber warfare capabilities and drone piloting—are increasingly prioritized alongside traditional physical requirements.

The discussion naturally ties into the broader context of modern warfare, with Ukraine serving as a poignant example of how military requirements shift as the need for personnel grows urgent. Max and Tony explore the complex dynamics at play, where outdated perceptions of “fighting fit” clash with the reality that adaptability and specialized skills are just as critical on today’s battlefields.

Interwoven with personal anecdotes, including Max’s experiences with Ranger school and Tony’s insights from South African military selection, the episode paints a vivid picture of the challenges and rewards of navigating military recruitment in an era defined by rapid technological advancement and global instability.

This is a must-listen for anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes realities of building effective and diverse military teams, where the right mindset and technical know-how are as important as physical readiness.

Don't miss out on the part where Max talks about the Spanish legionnaire ceremonial uniform... to be honest Tony digs it and we can see why.

Links:

Number 788 on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Botha, Smuts and the Great War https://amzn.to/3C05lDr

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this UGS Special Edition, we continue our military legends series with a focus on General Louis Botha, a towering figure in South African military history and often likened to America’s George Washington.

In this episode, Max interviews Tony, who shares insights from his co-authored book, Botha, Smuts and the First World War. They explore Botha’s early life, his rise as a commander during the Second Anglo-Boer War, and his strategic genius in defending the Tugela line against British forces. This discussion brings to light Botha’s unique tactical eye, his ability to build loyalty among his troops, and the early guerilla tactics that defined his military approach.

Let us know if there are other military legends you’d like us to cover in upcoming episodes!

For more on the topic, Tony's book Botha, Smuts and the First World War (available in South African bookstores) provides an in-depth look.

The UK edition, Botha, Smuts and the Great War, is available on Amazon. https://amzn.to/3C05lDr

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Underground Strategy podcast, we’re joined by military historian and professor Evert Kleynhans from Stellenbosch University. Known for his research on South African military history, Evert walks us through the fascinating and often-overlooked story of German espionage networks in South Africa during WWII. He explains the role of the Ossewabrandwag and shares insights into Smuts’ complex balancing act of politics, security, and wartime priorities.

Evert also gives us a look at his upcoming work on South African POWs, particularly those who escaped and evaded capture during WWII, providing a unique lens on military resilience and survival. We conclude with Evert's take on South Africa’s most impactful military commanders, whose strategies and decisions have left a lasting mark on both regional and world history.

For further reading on Evert Kleynhans and South African military history, check out his publications below:

Hitler’s South African Spies - https://amzn.to/49TuXi5

Naval War in South African Waters - https://amzn.eu/d/h8IM3Gu

Recommended reads on South African WWII history:

OB: Traitors or Patriots? by George Cloete Visser - https://amzn.to/4091UDL

Robey Leibbrandt: 'n Lewe van Fanatisme by Albert Blake - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49447236-robey-leibbrandt

A Military History of Modern South Africa by Ian van der Waag - https://amzn.to/4fThYyl

And a look at Evert’s most influential South African commanders:

Dan Pienaar - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_Pienaar

Roland de Vries - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roland_de_Vries

Evered Poole - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evered_Poole

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this fifth and final episode of the Number 788 podcast series, host Des Latham wraps up the journey with Max Lauker, reflecting on the incredible experiences that shaped his life in special operations and intelligence. From the Swedish Arctic Ranger Regiment to covert missions across the globe, Max shares how his career evolved from military operations to a focus on intelligence and beyond.

Returning from pivotal deployments in the Balkans, Max recalls his unit’s role in identifying key violations and proving their worth as an experimental special purpose unit. This success became the foundation for further deployments and Sweden’s growing participation in international operations, particularly during its transition toward NATO collaboration.

Max also shares insights into the process of writing Number 788: My Experiences in Swedish Special Operations Preparing for NATO and the War on Terror, co-authored with Tony Garcia. With vivid recollections and years of operational experience, the book provides a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of special operations. Max touches on how the collaboration with Tony shaped the book and how their shared passion has now expanded into Underground Strategy, a platform for military narratives, guest articles, and podcasts.

To join Max journey in Number 788, visit Amazon and grab your copy today - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

For updates on Underground Strategy, visit https://undergroundstrategy.com

or connect with Max Lauker on Instagram at https://instagram.com/maxlauker

To follow Des Latham and explore his work, including his blog and podcasts, visit https://desmondlatham.blog

or find his podcast, History of South Africa, wherever you listen to podcasts.

Thank you to Des Latham for guiding this fascinating journey through the limited series and bringing these stories to life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Underground Strategy, Max and Tony sit down with Alex, also known as Agent Condorito, to explore the militarization of Mexican cartels and their evolving tactics. Alex, an open-source intelligence enthusiast, has been closely monitoring cartels through digital channels, uncovering insights that often go underreported.

Alex discusses the rapid transformation of cartels like the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation Cartels, who have incorporated conventional warfare tactics, specialized units, and heavy weaponry, operating like small armies. The conversation delves into how cartels have leveraged technology—such as drones, anti-drone systems, and social media recruitment—to expand their reach and establish dominance in areas they control.

The discussion also highlights the ongoing turf wars, alliances, and internal conflicts within major cartels, as well as the Mexican government’s response and the role of foreign agencies like the DEA. Alex’s stories shed light on the social impact of these cartels, from the widespread violence that affects local communities to the complex web of loyalty and fear that sustains these organizations.

Find more insights from Alex on his Instagram page: https://instagram.com/agentcondorito

Links to Topics Discussed:

DEA - https://english.elpais.com/international/2024-05-10/the-deas-crusade-against-the-sinaloa-and-jalisco-cartels-the-most-dangerous-and-deadly-drug-crisis-the-us-has-ever-faced.html

Los Zetas - https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Zetas

Check out Max biography Number 788 here - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Episode 4 of our limited series on Number 788, hosted and produced by South African media figure Desmond Latham. Desmond, known for his History of South Africa podcast, brings his expertise and narrative skill to this series, guiding listeners through the defining missions and experiences of Max Lauker’s career in Swedish special operations.

In this episode, Desmond and Max dive into Max's deployment in the Balkans—a transformative chapter in his career. Max reflects on the complex shift from his early cowboy days in Colombia to the high-stakes reality of the Balkans. He recounts the mission dynamics in Kosovo, where he found himself in covert cross-border operations, navigating alliances with Italian and German forces, and conducting intelligence-gathering missions with high-risk stakes.

The conversation also explores the moral and tactical complexities of unsanctioned raids, the psychological challenges of long-term surveillance, and the unexpected discovery of Soviet-era weaponry on the Serbian border. Desmond’s probing questions reveal the formative impact of these experiences, shaping Max’s understanding of real-world intelligence work and operational patience.

Join us as we uncover the grit, decisions, and high-stakes realities that defined Max's Balkan deployment and set the stage for his subsequent missions.

In the next episode, Max will delve further into the evolution of his unit and the impact these early experiences had on his approach to special operations and intelligence.

Links:

Desmond Latham’s Blog: https://desmondlatham.blog/

History of South Africa Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2uDa0tQjGe3GpFKDGjMMAm?si=2d2812af232742da

Number 788 on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of Underground Strategy, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia welcome historian Karen Horn, who brings her extensive research on prisoners of war (POWs) to the podcast. Karen shares insights from her books, In Enemy Hands and Prisoners of Jan Smuts, exploring the lives and experiences of POWs from WWII. Through her detailed research and personal interviews, Karen uncovers stories that reveal both the resilience and humanity of those who endured captivity.

During this engaging conversation, Karen discusses her unique approach to historical writing, focusing on the stories of individuals to convey the larger experience of POWs. She shares some memorable anecdotes from her interviews, reflecting on the humor, resilience, and challenges that POWs expressed during her research. From Italian POWs in South Africa to South Africans captured by the Germans, Karen’s work offers a rich look at the human element of wartime.

As POWs remain a constant through centuries of conflict, Karen’s stories resonate in today’s context, reminding us of the enduring complexities of war. We look forward to having her back.

Karen's books are available in South Africa in all good book stores, and abroad at:

Prisoners of Jan Smuts: https://amzn.to/4fFy8Lx

In Enemy Hands: In Enemy Hands: https://amzn.to/41UUHbW

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Episode 3 of our limited series on Number 788, hosted and produced by South African media figure Desmond Latham. Known for his History of South Africa podcast, Desmond brings his deep experience and sharp perspective to this series, guiding listeners through the pivotal events that shaped Max Lauker’s journey into Swedish special operations.

In this episode, Desmond and Max dive into the transition from intense training to high-stakes operations, revealing some of the unorthodox, unsanctioned missions that came Max’s way. Max recounts his time in the UK for close-protection training, where he found himself unexpectedly assigned as security detail for a Russian oligarch—complete with food-tasting duties to safeguard against potential poisoning. It’s a unique look at the blend of humor and tension that marked the early years of his career.

Moving on to Latin America, Max describes his initial assignments in Panama, where he was tasked with preparing for future operations and forging local and international connections. Desmond’s insightful questions help unravel the complexities of conducting off-the-books missions abroad, from extractions in Venezuela to joint operations with Colombian forces. These experiences gave Max a foundation in adaptable, real-world tactics, shaping the way he approached later sanctioned missions.

The episode wraps up with a discussion of the political dynamics behind Sweden’s special operations. Desmond and Max discuss the significance of Sweden’s proactive role during the Balkans deployment, a pivotal assignment that strengthened Sweden’s credibility within NATO-aligned intelligence circles and set the stage for a strategic shift in their operations.

In the next episode, Max will delve deeper into his boots-on-the-ground experiences in the Balkans, leading into deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Links:

Desmond Latham’s Blog: https://desmondlatham.blog/

History of South Africa Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2uDa0tQjGe3GpFKDGjMMAm?si=2d2812af232742da

Number 788 on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Max and Tony are back, tackling a classic debate: are we all carrying too much kit? In this episode, they dig into the question of what’s truly essential versus what might just be extra baggage. From old-school rain gear to today’s “must-have” gadgets, they share insights on how to find the right balance without diving into a laundry list of gear. The conversation might make you rethink that overstuffed bag!

They also catch us up on the latest from Underground Strategy. Recent War Diaries features have brought fresh voices to the fold, with former diplomat Peter de Clercq sharing insights on global conflict zones and cybersecurity expert Hex diving into the digital battlespace. If you haven’t read these new narratives yet, now’s the time to catch up in the War Diaries section.

Beyond that, there’s plenty in the works: Tony is collaborating with retired Brigadier General Sereko on memoirs that cover over 40 years of service, while Max is deep into his next book, including a compelling project with South African veteran Bob Newland on his time with the London recruits.

Stay tuned for some exciting podcast episodes as we head into the holidays. And, if you have suggestions for themes or guests, reach out—your input could inspire an upcoming episode!

And don’t miss the Sunday SitRep! This quick-read, biweekly newsletter keeps you updated on recent military developments. Subscribe on our website to get the latest delivered straight to your inbox.

Until next week, keep it light on the kit and ready for action!

Links:

War Diaries - https://undergroundstrategy.com/war-diaries/

Combat Diaries - https://undergroundstrategy.com/combat-diaries/

Sunday Sitrep - https://undergroundstrategy.com/sunday-sitrep/

Number 788 - https://amzn.to/3BQGmm7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.