About this episode

Jay Tilden discusses the complexities of nuclear threats and the role of intelligence in deterrence.

In this episode of NucleCast , Adam sits down with Jay Tilden , former Department of Energy intelligence officer, for an inside look at how the U.S. understands, tracks, and deters nuclear risks in an increasingly complex global environment. From the intelligence role of the Department of Energy to the evolving threats posed by China, Russia, and Iran , Tilden breaks down the realities of nuclear proliferation, the risks of nuclear terrorism, and the critical role of nuclear forensics in deterrence. He also explains why modern nuclear challenges extend beyond weapons—highlighting the growing importance of cybersecurity in the energy sector and the continued need for reliable nuclear power to ensure national and economic security. Jay Tilden is Managing Director for National Security at Mission Strategies, leading the firm’s national and energy security practice after a 35-year career at the U.S. Department of Energy, including 13 years in the Senior Executive Service. He most recently served as Director of DOE’s Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence, leading nuclear, energy, cyber intelligence, and counterintelligence efforts across the enterprise. Previously, he was…

People in this episode

Host: Adam

Guest: Jay Tilden

Topics covered

• nuclear threats
• intelligence
• terrorism
• deterrence
• cybersecurity
• nuclear forensics
• energy security

Keywords

• nuclear proliferation
• nuclear terrorism
• cybersecurity
• energy sector
• national security
• nuclear forensics
• Department of Energy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Department of Energy, Mission Strategies, NNSA

Places: U.S., China, Russia, Iran

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