Howitzers: Medieval cannons and the supply chains of modern war
Summary
Ed Conway explores the critical role of artillery in the Ukraine war, contrasting historical shell shortages with modern supply chain failures in NATO. He details how depleted ammunition reserves forced Ukraine shifted to mass-produced drones to counter Russian advances. The episode examines the complex economics of war, highlighting how Western industrial capacity has atrophied since the Cold War. It reveals that while drones offer a cheaper alternative, they rely on fragile global supply chains, posing new strategic vulnerabilities for Western defense.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Francis Farrell's frontline experience in Ukraine
The history and mechanics of the howitzer
How artillery changed warfare from the Renaissance to WWI
Artillery's decisive role in the early stages of the Ukraine war
The NATO ammunition shortage and industrial decline
Challenges in ramping up shell production and supply chains
The rise of FPV and fiber-optic drones in modern warfare
Strategic vulnerabilities: Titanium dependence on Russia
UK's attempt to rebuild defense manufacturing capacity
Conclusion: The need for industrial readiness and future episodes
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