Analysis of National Security Presented at Coronado Roundtable

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Participants engage in a discussion on national security at the Coronado Roundtable.

News Summary

At the Coronado Roundtable, retired Vice-Admiral Charles W. Martoglio discussed national security, emphasizing U.S. competition with China and Russia. He analyzed the importance of a multidimensional approach to national power, highlighting economic, diplomatic, military, and informational aspects. Martoglio warned of the significant risks if the U.S. fails in this competition and advocated for soft diplomacy. The meeting provided community engagement opportunities alongside a Q&A session addressing pressing military issues.

Coronado – At the monthly meeting of the Coronado Roundtable, retired Vice-Admiral Charles W. Martoglio provided an analysis of national security and the current state of great power competition. The discussion took place in the Winn Room of the Coronado Public Library, drawing an audience concerned about the nation’s military and economic posture amidst growing uncertainties about future security.

Martoglio outlined the multidimensional nature of national power, defining it through four critical lenses: economic, diplomatic, military, and informational. He expressed that the principal challenge to U.S. security arises from competition with major global powers, notably China and Russia, along with their proxies. He argued that it is essential to engage in diplomacy and to maintain credible deterrents to sidestep the risk of a broader global conflict.

In analyzing the ongoing tensions, Martoglio asserted that the current dynamics between the U.S. and its allies versus China and Russia symbolize huge stakes where neither side can afford to win at the expense of the other. He conveyed that the U.S. possesses inherent advantages, including its robust economic capacity, technological superiority, and substantial military resources. However, he cautioned that the threats posed by non-state actors, specifically Iran and North Korea, should not be overlooked.

Martoglio warned of the dire consequences should the U.S. fail in its great power competition, stating that it could endanger all that the nation has worked to achieve. Specifically, he highlighted the anticipated continuance of tensions with China, particularly regarding its ambitions in the South China Sea and Taiwan. He further noted that any agreements with the People’s Republic of China must not undermine the authority of the Communist Party.

The Vice-Admiral advocated for a strategy of soft diplomacy and referenced the lasting relevance of the Monroe Doctrine. When discussing responses to Russian aggression, he emphasized America’s advantages in population size, GDP, currency strength, air power quality, and geographic positioning. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity for European allies to assume increased responsibility for regional stability in light of potential threats.

Martoglio expressed grave concerns regarding the potential collapse of the EU and NATO, insisting on the vital importance of cohesive partnerships with nations including Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. He defended the notion that predictions of America’s decline have often been premature, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilance and strong alliances.

The meeting concluded with a 30-minute question-and-answer session where Martoglio addressed a variety of topics, including the Monroe Doctrine’s relevance and the military performance of Russia. His distinguished career includes graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1978 and obtaining a Master’s in National Security studies from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. Throughout his service, he has held significant command and strategic planning positions.

The Coronado Roundtable continues to provide a platform for diverse speakers each month, excluding November and December, and invites public participation. The next meeting is set to include coffee and opportunities for community engagement, aiming to foster dialogue on pressing national and global issues.