LW24: Ian Brown

In this episode, we sit down with author Ian T. Brown to discuss his groundbreaking book, A New Conception of War: John Boyd, the U.S. Marines, and Maneuver Warfare. Brown’s work offers a deep dive into the revolutionary ideas of John Boyd and their profound influence on modern Marine Corps doctrine. Combining rigorous historical research with a sharp analysis of military strategy, A New Conception of War explores how Boyd’s theories reshaped the concept of maneuver warfare and continue to guide the U.S. military today.

We trace the origins of Brown’s interest in military history, from his time as a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter pilot and forward air controller to his academic pursuits in military scholarship. Drawing on his deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Pacific, Brown shares how his operational experiences informed his perspective on warfare and his desire to create a definitive work on John Boyd’s legacy.

Join us as we discuss Brown’s creative process, the challenges of bridging scholarly research and practical application, and the relevance of Boyd’s ideas in today’s evolving battlespace. We also explore Brown’s role at the Brute Krulak Center for Innovation and Future Warfare, his passion for wargaming, and his insights into how military strategy continues to adapt to emerging threats. Whether you’re a student of military history, a practitioner of strategy, or simply someone fascinated by the intersection of innovation and conflict, this conversation is not to be missed.