Deterrence or Drift? The Test of American Power - SITREP - Carry On Podcast

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In this episode of the Carry On Podcast, Brad breaks down a growing strategic concern: the gap between American military capability and perceived political resolve.

The United States still fields overwhelming power. The question is whether adversaries believe it will be used.

This episode explores:

• The difference between capability and credibility
• Alliance reassurance vs. alliance doubt
• Escalation control and political hesitation
• How adversaries test thresholds without crossing them
• The strategic cost of ambiguity
• Whether deterrence is holding — or eroding

Deterrence is not just about weapons systems.

It’s about belief.

If competitors sense hesitation, miscalculation becomes more likely. If allies sense drift, alliances strain.

This episode looks at where American power stands today — and whether perception is becoming the real battlefield.

Stay informed. Stay grounded. Stay frosty.

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