There was a lot of good nuggets shared in this discussion. Notably, recognition that a strong industrial base and leading edge equipment serves as deterrent to conflict. Teddy Roosevelt had it right, to paraphrase, walk softly and carry a big stick. I also was glad to hear someone acknowledge that border security and immigration policy are two different things, a large swath of the people today are completely missing that critical distinction as we endure the largest unabated (maybe assisted) influx of people across our borders. No wonder many immigrants who followed the rules and are here legally are furious with this administration.

Lastly, wrt why the Govt/DoD lacks the ability to hire top notch talent. The best and brightest college students don't want to take (and probably can't afford to take) a GS-7 or GS-9 ($50-60k) salary, and countless attempts at "pay for performance" have been disasters. Also the retirement system (FERs vs CSRS) has made Govt less attractive for the last 40 years (with further retirement eroding changes in last 10 years). As one of the podcast guests noted, once everyone within the system, especially the hiring managers, are 3rd and 4th tier talent, it is near impossible to recognize anything but the same. Again, a worthwhile listen and glad to hear young and talented individuals calling out important problems and hopefully starting a groundswell to turn things around.