Underground Strategy

In this UGS Special Edition, we continue our military legends series by exploring General Louis Botha’s transformative journey from wartime commander to statesman.In this episode, Max and Tony discuss Botha’s pivotal role in World War I, including his leadership during the Southwest Africa campaign, the challenges of commanding a divided nation, and the moral complexities of fighting alongside the British so soon after the Anglo-Boer War.They also reach into the dynamics of Botha’s partnership with Jan Smuts—how their unique relationship shaped South Africa’s military and political traditions, and how Botha’s leadership left an enduring mark on the nation.Let us know if there are other military legends you’d like us to cover in upcoming episodes!For more on the topic, Tony's book Botha, Smuts and the First World War (available in South African bookstores) provides an in-depth look.The UK edition, Botha, Smuts and the Great War, is available on Amazon: https://amzn.eu/d/6dO2j7i

In this week’s episode of Underground Strategy, Max and Tony tackle the evolving dynamics of military recruitment and selection processes, providing a unique perspective shaped by their personal experiences and years of observation. As the holiday season approaches, the duo reflects on the spirit of Christmas creeping into their routines—lights, advent traditions, and thoughts of thoughtful gifts (books, anyone?) make their way into the conversation, adding a lighter touch before diving into the week’s topic.As global conflicts intensify and armies worldwide face mounting pressure to scale up recruitment, the conversation delves into how modern militaries are adapting their strategies to balance the demand for manpower with the need to maintain operational excellence.Max reflects on his time in Swedish special operations, sharing insights on the psychological and physical demands of special forces selections, where mental resilience often outweighs brute physical strength. Tony adds his perspective, discussing how military psychological evaluations can sometimes reveal more about a recruit’s potential than their ability to run a perfect 10K or perform dozens of pull-ups. They highlight how soft skills and technical expertise—like cyber warfare capabilities and drone piloting—are increasingly prioritized alongside traditional physical requirements.The discussion naturally ties into the broader context of modern warfare, with Ukraine serving as a poignant example of how military requirements shift as the need for personnel grows urgent. Max and Tony explore the complex dynamics at play, where outdated perceptions of “fighting fit” clash with the reality that adaptability and specialized skills are just as critical on today’s battlefields.Interwoven with personal anecdotes, including Max’s experiences with Ranger school and Tony’s insights from South African military selection, the episode paints a vivid picture of the challenges and rewards of navigating military recruitment in an era defined by rapid technological advancement and global instability.This is a must-listen for anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes realities of building effective and diverse military teams, where the right mindset and technical know-how are as important as physical readiness. Don't miss out on the part where Max talks about the Spanish legionnaire ceremonial uniform... to be honest Tony digs it and we can see why.Links:Number 788 on Amazon - https://a.co/d/is4FcIxBotha, Smuts and the Great War / https://amzn.eu/d/4axoL9a

In this UGS Special Edition, we continue our military legends series with a focus on General Louis Botha, a towering figure in South African military history and often likened to America’s George Washington.In this episode, Max interviews Tony, who shares insights from his co-authored book, Botha, Smuts and the First World War. They explore Botha’s early life, his rise as a commander during the Second Anglo-Boer War, and his strategic genius in defending the Tugela line against British forces. This discussion brings to light Botha’s unique tactical eye, his ability to build loyalty among his troops, and the early guerilla tactics that defined his military approach.Let us know if there are other military legends you’d like us to cover in upcoming episodes!For more on the topic, Tony's book Botha, Smuts and the First World War (available in South African bookstores) provides an in-depth look.The UK edition, Botha, Smuts and the Great War, is available on Amazon. https://amzn.eu/d/6dO2j7i

In this episode of the Underground Strategy podcast, we’re joined by military historian and professor Evert Kleynhans from Stellenbosch University. Known for his research on South African military history, Evert walks us through the fascinating and often-overlooked story of German espionage networks in South Africa during WWII. He explains the role of the Ossewabrandwag and shares insights into Smuts’ complex balancing act of politics, security, and wartime priorities.Evert also gives us a look at his upcoming work on South African POWs, particularly those who escaped and evaded capture during WWII, providing a unique lens on military resilience and survival. We conclude with Evert's take on South Africa’s most impactful military commanders, whose strategies and decisions have left a lasting mark on both regional and world history.For further reading on Evert Kleynhans and South African military history, check out his publications below:Hitler’s South African Spies - https://amzn.eu/d/4yz0doJNaval War in South African Waters - https://amzn.eu/d/h8IM3GuRecommended reads on South African WWII history:OB: Traitors or Patriots? by George Cloete Visser - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12910111-obRobey Leibbrandt: 'n Lewe van Fanatisme by Albert Blake - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49447236-robey-leibbrandtA Military History of Modern South Africa by Ian van der Waag - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26190816-a-military-history-of-modern-south-africaAnd a look at Evert’s most influential South African commanders:Dan Pienaar - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dan_PienaarRoland de Vries - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roland_de_VriesEvered Poole - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evered_Poole

In this fifth and final episode of the Number 788 podcast series, host Des Latham wraps up the journey with Max Lauker, reflecting on the incredible experiences that shaped his life in special operations and intelligence. From the Swedish Arctic Ranger Regiment to covert missions across the globe, Max shares how his career evolved from military operations to a focus on intelligence and beyond.Returning from pivotal deployments in the Balkans, Max recalls his unit’s role in identifying key violations and proving their worth as an experimental special purpose unit. This success became the foundation for further deployments and Sweden’s growing participation in international operations, particularly during its transition toward NATO collaboration.Max also shares insights into the process of writing Number 788: My Experiences in Swedish Special Operations Preparing for NATO and the War on Terror, co-authored with Tony Garcia. With vivid recollections and years of operational experience, the book provides a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of special operations. Max touches on how the collaboration with Tony shaped the book and how their shared passion has now expanded into Underground Strategy, a platform for military narratives, guest articles, and podcasts.To join Max journey in Number 788, visit Amazon and grab your copy today - https://a.co/d/fF8vM9gFor updates on Underground Strategy, visit https://undergroundstrategy.com or connect with Max Lauker on Instagram at https://instagram.com/maxlaukerTo follow Des Latham and explore his work, including his blog and podcasts, visit https://desmondlatham.blogor find his podcast, History of South Africa, wherever you listen to podcasts.Thank you to Des Latham for guiding this fascinating journey through the limited series and bringing these stories to life.

In this week’s episode of Underground Strategy, Max and Tony sit down with Alex, also known as Agent Condorito, to explore the militarization of Mexican cartels and their evolving tactics. Alex, an open-source intelligence enthusiast, has been closely monitoring cartels through digital channels, uncovering insights that often go underreported.Alex discusses the rapid transformation of cartels like the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation Cartels, who have incorporated conventional warfare tactics, specialized units, and heavy weaponry, operating like small armies. The conversation delves into how cartels have leveraged technology—such as drones, anti-drone systems, and social media recruitment—to expand their reach and establish dominance in areas they control.The discussion also highlights the ongoing turf wars, alliances, and internal conflicts within major cartels, as well as the Mexican government’s response and the role of foreign agencies like the DEA. Alex’s stories shed light on the social impact of these cartels, from the widespread violence that affects local communities to the complex web of loyalty and fear that sustains these organizations.Find more insights from Alex on his Instagram page: https://instagram.com/agentcondoritoLinks to Topics Discussed:DEA - https://english.elpais.com/international/2024-05-10/the-deas-crusade-against-the-sinaloa-and-jalisco-cartels-the-most-dangerous-and-deadly-drug-crisis-the-us-has-ever-faced.htmlLos Zetas - https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Zetas

Welcome to Episode 4 of our limited series on Number 788, hosted and produced by South African media figure Desmond Latham. Desmond, known for his History of South Africa podcast, brings his expertise and narrative skill to this series, guiding listeners through the defining missions and experiences of Max Lauker’s career in Swedish special operations.In this episode, Desmond and Max dive into Max's deployment in the Balkans—a transformative chapter in his career. Max reflects on the complex shift from his early cowboy days in Colombia to the high-stakes reality of the Balkans. He recounts the mission dynamics in Kosovo, where he found himself in covert cross-border operations, navigating alliances with Italian and German forces, and conducting intelligence-gathering missions with high-risk stakes.The conversation also explores the moral and tactical complexities of unsanctioned raids, the psychological challenges of long-term surveillance, and the unexpected discovery of Soviet-era weaponry on the Serbian border. Desmond’s probing questions reveal the formative impact of these experiences, shaping Max’s understanding of real-world intelligence work and operational patience.Join us as we uncover the grit, decisions, and high-stakes realities that defined Max's Balkan deployment and set the stage for his subsequent missions.In the next episode, Max will delve further into the evolution of his unit and the impact these early experiences had on his approach to special operations and intelligence.Links:Desmond Latham’s Blog: https://desmondlatham.blog/History of South Africa Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2uDa0tQjGe3GpFKDGjMMAm?si=2d2812af232742daNumber 788 on Amazon: https://a.co/d/is4FcIx

In this edition of Underground Strategy, Max Lauker and Tony Garcia welcome historian Karen Horn, who brings her extensive research on prisoners of war (POWs) to the podcast. Karen shares insights from her books, In Enemy Hands and Prisoners of Jan Smuts, exploring the lives and experiences of POWs from WWII. Through her detailed research and personal interviews, Karen uncovers stories that reveal both the resilience and humanity of those who endured captivity.During this engaging conversation, Karen discusses her unique approach to historical writing, focusing on the stories of individuals to convey the larger experience of POWs. She shares some memorable anecdotes from her interviews, reflecting on the humor, resilience, and challenges that POWs expressed during her research. From Italian POWs in South Africa to South Africans captured by the Germans, Karen’s work offers a rich look at the human element of wartime.As POWs remain a constant through centuries of conflict, Karen’s stories resonate in today’s context, reminding us of the enduring complexities of war. We look forward to having her back.Karen's books are available in South Africa in all good book stores, and abroad at:Prisoners of Jan Smuts: https://amzn.eu/d/2zaQO9MIn Enemy Hands: In Enemy Hands: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1868426513

Welcome to Episode 3 of our limited series on Number 788, hosted and produced by South African media figure Desmond Latham. Known for his History of South Africa podcast, Desmond brings his deep experience and sharp perspective to this series, guiding listeners through the pivotal events that shaped Max Lauker’s journey into Swedish special operations.In this episode, Desmond and Max dive into the transition from intense training to high-stakes operations, revealing some of the unorthodox, unsanctioned missions that came Max’s way. Max recounts his time in the UK for close-protection training, where he found himself unexpectedly assigned as security detail for a Russian oligarch—complete with food-tasting duties to safeguard against potential poisoning. It’s a unique look at the blend of humor and tension that marked the early years of his career.Moving on to Latin America, Max describes his initial assignments in Panama, where he was tasked with preparing for future operations and forging local and international connections. Desmond’s insightful questions help unravel the complexities of conducting off-the-books missions abroad, from extractions in Venezuela to joint operations with Colombian forces. These experiences gave Max a foundation in adaptable, real-world tactics, shaping the way he approached later sanctioned missions.The episode wraps up with a discussion of the political dynamics behind Sweden’s special operations. Desmond and Max discuss the significance of Sweden’s proactive role during the Balkans deployment, a pivotal assignment that strengthened Sweden’s credibility within NATO-aligned intelligence circles and set the stage for a strategic shift in their operations.In the next episode, Max will delve deeper into his boots-on-the-ground experiences in the Balkans, leading into deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq.Links:Desmond Latham’s Blog: https://desmondlatham.blog/History of South Africa Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2uDa0tQjGe3GpFKDGjMMAm?si=2d2812af232742daNumber 788 on Amazon: https://a.co/d/is4FcIx