Chokepoints & Flashpoints

From the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea to the South China Sea, Taiwan Strait and the Arctic, some of the world’s most important waterways are also becoming points of geopolitical friction.

Iran and the Houthis have demonstrated how quickly conflict can disrupt commercial shipping and global energy flows. China asserts expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea and contests navigation and military activity in surrounding waters. Russia’s shadow fleet and threats to critical undersea infrastructure raise different questions about how states protect the maritime systems on which they depend. Meanwhile, competing interpretations of jurisdiction continue to shape the future of Arctic navigation.

When freedom of navigation is challenged, what does it actually take to keep the world’s shipping lanes open?

On October 8, 2026, RAUSI invites you to join two accomplished naval commanders for a Fireside Chat examining Freedom of Navigation from both strategic and operational perspectives.

Experience from the Bridge

• Rear Admiral (Ret.) Lars Saunes
  Former Chief of the Royal Norwegian Navy, Rear Admiral Saunes brings extensive experience in naval operations, northern waters and maritime strategy. He is currently a professor at the U.S. Naval War College.
• Rear Admiral (Ret.) Robert Girrier, USN
  Former Deputy Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and Director of Operations for U.S. Pacific Command, Rear Admiral Girrier also commanded the Nimitz and Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Groups and served as the U.S. Navy’s first Director of Unmanned Warfare Systems.

Together, they bring perspectives shaped not only by strategy and policy, but by the practical realities of commanding naval forces in some of the world’s most consequential maritime regions.

Join us for a candid conversation about the relationship between maritime law, naval power, global trade and national interests—and bring your questions for the live Q&A.

Chokepoints & Flashpoints
When Freedom of Navigation Draws a Line in the Sea

Thursday, 08 October 2026
1900 hours (Mountain) via Zoom
(1800 PST / 2100 EST / 0300 CET next day)

All are welcome. Registration required.