Why Security Force Assistance Only Sometimes Works

Hosted by the Modern War Institute at West Point, this series offers a direct, thoughtful examination of the ideas and strategies shaping contemporary and future battlefields. Each episode brings together the institute’s deep analytical resources with voices from the field, creating conversations that are both academic and grounded in real-world experience. You’ll hear from senior military leaders, policy experts, historians, and scholars who dissect complex topics-from emerging technologies and hybrid warfare to geopolitical shifts and the enduring human elements of conflict. Supported by the West Point Class of 1974, the podcast serves as a primary forum for the institute’s work, moving beyond headlines to explore the underlying mechanics and ethical considerations of modern defense. The discussions are detailed and nuanced, designed for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of national security challenges without the jargon and oversimplification. Tune in for a rigorous, accessible education on the art of war in the twenty-first century, where every conversation aims to inform and provoke thoughtful consideration.