Long-Range Precision Fires and the Fight for the First Island Chain

In this episode of The Spear, host Dr. Charlie Faint speaks with Lieutenant Colonel Ben Blane about the rapid evolution of long-range precision fires and the Army’s shift toward multidomain operations in preparation for conflict with near-peer adversaries, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Blane traces his career from traditional artillery roles to commanding the Army’s first long-range precision fires battalion, highlighting how emerging capabilities, such as hypersonic weapons, networked missile systems, drones, cyber, and space integration, are transforming artillery into a central component of joint, distributed warfare. He emphasizes the importance of forward positioning, interoperability with allies, and building resilient, networked kill webs that enable faster, more precise effects across domains. Drawing on real-world experimentation in places like the Philippines, he underscores both the successes and challenges of integrating new technologies under constant adversary observation, while stressing that future warfare will depend less on mass and more on speed, adaptability, and intelligent, interconnected munitions. Chapters (00:00:00) - The Spear(00:03:59) - Commanding Engineer, Field Artillery Brigade(00:07:28) - Exploring the Long Range Precision Fires Battalion(00:14:26) - Army's Role in the Asia Strategy(00:16:30) - Was your battalion a joint organization or was it just straight army?(00:19:05) - Could the Army Sink a Ship?(00:20:31) - Typhon Missile System Deployment in the Indo-(00:29:14) - Typhon Deployment: Was There Any Pressure?(00:33:31) - What was morale like for your soldiers in a new unit?(00:35:15) - Exercises for Mission Command and Control(00:41:58) - Firing Fires in the Future(00:45:20) - The Spear