As a former U.S. Navy destroyer sailor in the 1970s, I’ve seen firsthand how technology—when coupled with skilled people—can shape the course of history. I later spent decades in the tech industry mentoring thousands of budding web professionals. Today, as the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I continue to advocate for the strength of our Navy—and that strength begins with education.
That’s why I’m honored to participate in the Navy League’s 7th annual STEM Expo this year at National Harbor. This event, designed to inspire students from grades 5 through 12, is more than just a fun afternoon of experiments, ROV building, and dolphin doctors. It’s a launching pad.
Why? Because STEM education matters more now than ever.
When I served aboard the USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7), our edge came from training, teamwork, and an ability to adapt—qualities that mirror the STEM mindset. Experiment. Fail. Learn. Repeat. That’s the rhythm of science. It’s also the rhythm of a Navy that must constantly innovate to stay ahead of evolving global threats.
The hands-on exhibits, mad science performances, and marine mammal medicine demos aren’t just entertainment. They’re experiences that ignite curiosity, build confidence, and foster critical thinking—traits that lead to careers in shipbuilding, AI, cybersecurity, logistics, and the next generation of maritime defense.
The U.S. Navy and industry don’t just need ships. They need thinkers. Builders. Doers. And that starts with investing in our youth—encouraging them to dive into robotics, physics, medicine, and engineering so they can one day help keep our sea lanes secure and our nation strong.
I’m proud to stand with the Navy League, the Sea Cadets, and all the educators and parents who believe in this mission. Let’s inspire the next generation—one hands-on demonstration, one question, and one ‘aha’ moment at a time.
Because if we want a stronger Navy, we need stronger minds.
See you at the STEM Expo.
— Bill Cullifer Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy Former U.S. Navy Destroyer Sailor Mentor | Technologist | Advocate
A Review of Heritage Foundation Report BG3902 by Americans for a Stronger Navy
Introduction
The Heritage Foundation’s latest report, “Arming for Peace: Expanding the Defense Industrial Base and Arming Taiwan Faster” (BG3902), echoes what Americans for a Stronger Navy has been sounding the alarm on: The threats facing the United States are real, escalating, and dangerously close to overwhelming our current naval capabilities. As Brent Sadler writes, the time for talk has passed. Action is overdue. If we don’t mobilize now, America risks losing the ability to deter war and defend freedom in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
As Sadler states: “As Americans go about their daily lives unmolested, the world is accelerating in its change—much of it perilous to U.S. national survival.” He warns that “on the back of a decades-long sustained military build-up, China’s military is increasingly confident and willing to directly challenge the U.S.”
His call to action is clear: “The U.S. must restore ebbing national deterrence and prevent a war in Asia—while not ceding its democratic way of life and prosperity for the next generations.”
Key Findings That Should Wake America Up
China is preparing for war. Admiral Davidson’s 2021 warning that China could strike Taiwan by 2027 has not only proven prescient, it’s now backed by an unprecedented military buildup. China has conducted massive joint-force invasion rehearsals and increased provocations around Taiwan. As Brent Sadler put it, “Aggressive maneuvers around Taiwan right now are not exercises, as they call them. They are rehearsals.”
That warning was underscored this week when the Chinese military launched large-scale joint drills around Taiwan, including its Shandong aircraft carrier battle group. According to China’s own Eastern Theater Command, these drills are a “severe warning and forceful containment against Taiwan independence.” With missile forces, air strikes, and blockade rehearsals now unfolding, many in Taiwan — and around the world — are rightfully concerned. Sadler’s insights about China’s evolving risk tolerance add important context to these real-time developments.
Further validating the urgency, the U.S. Naval War College’s China Maritime Report No. 14 found that Chinese analysts themselves believe the PLA has narrowed the gap with the U.S. military, especially in its immediate region. “There is consensus in China that the PLA has narrowed the gap in overall military capabilities with the United States over the last two decades,” the report notes.
Russia and China are approaching U.S. shores. Testimony from U.S. Northern Command chief Gen. Gregory Guillot before Congress confirmed that joint Russian-Chinese military patrols have entered the U.S. Air Defense Identification Zone near Alaska — levels not seen since before the Ukraine war began. One coordinated flight last July saw Russian TU-95 and Chinese H-6 bombers test U.S. response time. This should serve as a wake-up call: our adversaries are not just projecting power near Taiwan, they’re probing U.S. airspace and waters closer to home. As Politico reported, Chinese “dual-use” vessels under scientific pretenses are mapping the Arctic for future military operations.
U.S. deterrence is fading. Years of underinvestment in shipbuilding and naval readiness have created dangerous gaps. Delays in weapons deliveries, inadequate port infrastructure, and a depleted missile defense stockpile are symptoms of a nation unprepared for a prolonged maritime conflict. As Sadler warns, “Failing to act… could result in the most destructive and consequential war the U.S. has ever had to fight.”
The Navy is stretched thin. The U.S. Navy has sustained an aggressive forward presence, but at great cost. Ship wear, sailor fatigue, and insufficient repair capacity are taking their toll. The grounding of the USNS Big Horn disrupted combat ops in the Red Sea, highlighting our logistical fragility. Sadler notes, “This comes at a cost in added wear on the ships and sailors reliant on a logistics infrastructure of ports, support ships, and dry docks too few to assure contested forward naval operations.”
The world is on fire. From Ukraine to the Red Sea to the Arctic, our adversaries are watching and testing U.S. resolve. China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea now operate more boldly, confident in America’s disunity and domestic distraction.
Taiwan is not a distant concern. More than 80,000 Americans live, work, or travel there. A war over Taiwan would drag us into conflict, devastate global supply chains, and send shockwaves through the U.S. economy. As Sadler puts it plainly, “Taiwan is where over 80,000 Americans live, work, or travel on any given day.”
China’s geographic advantage cannot be ignored. According to the CMSI report, Chinese military capabilities are particularly potent within the First Island Chain, which includes Taiwan. “Chinese capabilities may…contest U.S. supremacy in scenarios close to home,” the report warns. That’s where deterrence matters most—and where readiness is most urgently needed.
Why Americans Should Care
This is not just a Navy problem. It’s an American problem. Delays in defense production, weak infrastructure, and an uninformed public are national vulnerabilities. If Americans fail to understand what is at stake, we will fail to hold our leaders accountable. And if we fail to act, we will be forced to react under far worse circumstances.
A strong Navy protects freedom of navigation, global trade, energy security, and the American way of life. Without it, our adversaries will decide what happens in the Taiwan Strait, the Red Sea, the South China Sea — and now, even the Arctic.
What the Navy Needs Now
A modern Naval Act. We need a 21st-century version of the pre-WWII Naval Act to rapidly rebuild shipyards, expand production, and modernize our fleet. Sadler calls this “a promising first step to regain the ability to sustain a wartime economy in a prolonged war with China.”
Real investment in maritime infrastructure. Ports, dry docks, and logistics support are vital national security assets that must be revitalized now.
Faster arms deliveries to Taiwan. The delays in Harpoon, Javelin, and Stinger deliveries must be resolved. Taiwan’s ability to defend itself is our first line of deterrence. Sadler emphasizes that “how the new Administration responds and accelerates the arming of Taiwan will be key in sustaining the military balance and peace in the near term.”
A unified national strategy. We must operate differently — with diplomatic, economic, and military efforts aligned. Naval statecraft must be at the heart of this new Cold War strategy. Sadler emphasizes, “Naval statecraft is the recommended way forward; that is, a maritime strategic framework for using American power.”
The CMSI report reminds us that training, human capital, and logistics remain U.S. advantages. While China may be catching up in hardware, “Chinese training still lags. The gap in the software [human resources and development] is even bigger,” the report notes. But these gaps can close — unless we act now to protect and reinforce our edge.
An Engaged and Educated Public
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe in peace through strength. But strength requires public awareness, buy-in, and civic action. That’s why we launched the Americans for a Stronger Navy Educational Series — to help Americans understand the stakes, the history, and the path forward.
We invite every reader to check out and sign up for the Educational Series on StrongerNavy.org. Learn what makes our Navy vital to our security and prosperity. Share it with others. Talk about it. Get involved.
Conclusion
We are not powerless. But we must not be silent. The Heritage Foundation, the U.S. Naval War College, and recent military testimony to Congress all point to the same reality: America is in the early stages of a long contest with near-peer adversaries, and we must prepare now.
It’s time for Americans to wake up, stand up, and demand a Navy that is ready not just for today’s threats, but tomorrow’s challenges.
America needs a stronger Navy. And the Navy needs a stronger America behind it.
The 2025 Annual Threat Assessment (ATA) from the U.S. Intelligence Community delivers a direct message to America: our adversaries are preparing, adapting, and collaborating in ways that threaten our security and way of life. For the U.S. Navy, this report underscores the urgent need to evolve—faster, smarter, and with the full backing of the American public. As a former destroyer sailor and founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I’ve never seen a clearer call to action.
Understanding the Threat Environment
The ATA outlines a world where state adversaries are growing more aggressive, not just militarily, but across cyberspace, space, and information warfare. These threats are not abstract—they are aimed at U.S. systems, infrastructure, supply chains, and naval dominance.
Key Takeaways
China China is modernizing the world’s largest navy, expanding its presence in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, and using cyber capabilities like Volt Typhoon and Salt Typhoon to pre-position attacks on U.S. infrastructure. Its military posture is aimed at deterring U.S. intervention and achieving dominance by 2049.
Russia Despite its losses in Ukraine, Russia remains dangerous, with a formidable submarine fleet, long-range missile systems, and anti-satellite weapons. Its activity in the Arctic and collaboration with China create new strategic complications for the Navy.
Iran Iran is deploying proxy forces such as the Houthis to strike commercial shipping and challenge U.S. regional interests. Its growing cyber and missile arsenal pose immediate operational risks, particularly in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf.
North Korea North Korea continues to expand its nuclear and missile programs while deepening ties with Russia. It remains an unpredictable and volatile threat with expanding long-range strike capability.
Adversarial Cooperation China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are now actively collaborating. The coordination of military, cyber, and intelligence resources among these nations raises the stakes for U.S. naval strategy and global readiness.
Why Americans Should Care
Our economy depends on maritime security. Ninety percent of global trade—including food, medicine, and fuel—moves by sea. Disruption of those supply lines affects every American household.
A strong Navy deters war. The Navy maintains peace through presence. Without adequate ships, infrastructure, and support, our deterrence fails—and the risk of conflict rises.
Cyber and space threats can paralyze daily life. Adversaries are preparing to disable communications, GPS, power, and defense networks. Many of these systems are protected or enabled by the U.S. Navy.
Our enemies are coordinating. No longer isolated, these states are combining their strengths to challenge U.S. global presence—and potentially to stretch our forces thin across multiple theaters.
National support is a strategic weapon. A Navy without public backing is vulnerable. Understanding the threat landscape empowers voters, lawmakers, and communities to support smart, decisive investments in naval readiness.
Implications for the Navy
Fleet Modernization The Navy must deploy hypersonic weapons, uncrewed platforms, AI-driven systems, and advanced missile defenses to compete in contested domains.
Forward Logistics and Pre-Positioned Assets The Navy must expand its footprint in the Indo-Pacific, Arctic, and Middle East by investing in mobile logistics, fuel depots, and strategic alliances.
Cyber and Infrastructure Hardening Cyber hardening is now a frontline requirement. Naval systems and civilian infrastructure that support operations—like ports and shipyards—must be resilient.
Space and Arctic Readiness With increasing threats to space assets and the Arctic opening as a strategic corridor, the Navy must build capabilities for multi-domain and under-ice operations.
Industrial Base and Workforce Development America must revitalize its shipbuilding industry and train the next generation of naval engineers and builders. We cannot deter tomorrow’s threats with yesterday’s tools.
Closing Thought
The ATA is not just an intelligence document. It’s a warning flare. Americans for a Stronger Navy exists to ensure the public understands these threats and responds with urgency. The Navy can’t do it alone. It needs your voice.
To Learn More
If you found this post informative, we invite you to explore and sign up for the Americans for a Stronger Navy Educational Series. This free, ongoing program dives deeper into the threats, challenges, and opportunities facing the U.S. Navy today—and why it matters to every American. Click here to subscribe to the conversation and become part of the solution.
By Bill Cullifer, Founder and Advocate-in-Chief, Americans for a Stronger Navy
Editor’s Note: This article is offered as a thought-provoking contribution to the national conversation on military reform and accountability. It is not intended to endorse or oppose any political figure or party. Instead, it invites discussion about how innovation, transparency, and forward-thinking leadership can help strengthen the U.S. Navy for the challenges ahead.
Introduction
While watching Bret Baier’s recent FOX special on the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), I found myself thinking: what if this wave of government reviews hits the U.S. Navy? Could it be a disaster—or could it actually make the Navy stronger?
Bill Cullifer, Founder
As someone who served in the Navy and now leads Americans for a Stronger Navy, I know how complex and mission-critical our maritime forces are. You can’t simply apply a Silicon Valley mindset to a warship or a global logistics chain. And yet, listening to the cabinet members speak about their departments being put under the microscope, it struck me: those who embrace scrutiny might come out leaner, smarter, and more ready for the future.
The Risk
DOGE could become a blunt instrument. If reformers misunderstand the Navy’s mission, they might cut where they shouldn’t. They might sideline the experience of sailors and shipbuilders, and leave readiness vulnerable in the name of short-term savings.
The Opportunity
But if the Navy leads from the front—inviting review, owning its challenges, and showcasing innovation—it could become a national model. Not just for efficiency, but for integrity and transformation. It could even spark a new wave of public trust.
A Pattern of Problems We Can’t Ignore
This isn’t just theory—it’s backed by years of Government Accountability Office (GAO) reporting. In its March 2025 report, the GAO stated bluntly that despite nearly doubling the Navy’s shipbuilding budget over the past 20 years, the fleet has not grown.
Programs like the Zumwalt-class destroyers, Littoral Combat Ships, and Constellation-class frigates have been riddled with incomplete designs, delays, weak business cases, and massive cost overruns. The Constellation-class, for example, began construction before its design was finalized—despite being based on a proven European frigate.
Since 2015, the GAO has made 90 recommendations to improve Navy shipbuilding. Only 30 have been addressed. That’s not just bureaucratic foot-dragging—it’s a pattern that puts our national security and naval strength at risk.
A Broader Mandate for Reform
This isn’t happening in a vacuum. On March 29, 2025, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a memo launching the Workforce Acceleration and Recapitalization Initiative, ordering a top-down realignment of the Department of Defense’s civilian workforce.
The initiative seeks to reduce duplication, cut excessive bureaucracy, and redirect resources to the front lines. It reopens the Deferred Resignation Program, encourages early retirement, and requires senior leaders to propose leaner organizational charts—aiming to build a force that is “lean, mean, and prepared to win.”
Whether you agree with the approach or not, reform is no longer optional. The question is whether the Navy will lead the charge—or be dragged into it.
Civic Engagement
Americans for a Stronger Navy exists to engage the public, ask hard questions, and help translate naval strength into civic understanding. We believe a strong Navy and a responsible government go hand in hand. If DOGE enters the shipyard gates, we’ll be watching—not to tear down, but to help build back smarter.
Let’s make sure this moment strengthens the fleet, not weakens it.
Call to Action
We invite you to be part of the conversation. Share your thoughts, experiences, or concerns by visiting StrongerNavy.org on twitter.
A Tribute to the Blue Water, Brown Water Navy – and Our POWs | March 29
As we mark this solemn and significant moment of remembrance, Americans for a Stronger Navy extends heartfelt gratitude to all who served during the Vietnam War—especially those in the U.S. Navy. Whether you were steaming offshore on a destroyer, carrier, or support ship, or navigating the dangerous inland waterways of the Mekong Delta, your courage and commitment mattered. You stood watch in some of the most complex and grueling conditions in modern warfare.
The Navy’s Role in Vietnam
The Navy’s role in Vietnam was extensive and essential. From launching air strikes from carriers during Rolling Thunder and Linebacker, to conducting coastal bombardments and halting enemy supply lines through Operation Market Time, the Navy was always on the front line. In the rivers and canals of the Delta, sailors in Task Forces 115, 116, and 117 faced ambushes and booby traps daily as they fought to secure the waterways in what became known as the “Brown Water Navy.”
Among those who served with distinction was the USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7). During the first three months of 1967, she cruised the South China Sea and Gulf of Tonkin, performing search and rescue missions and pounding enemy coastal positions in support of ground operations. Throughout the war, Henry B. Wilson served as plane guard for carriers on Yankee Station, participated in Sea Dragon operations, and provided naval gunfire support.
In April 1975, she took part in Operation Eagle Pull, assisting in the evacuation of Phnom Penh during its fall to the Khmer Rouge. Just weeks later, she was on the front lines again for Operation Frequent Wind, helping evacuate South Vietnam during its final collapse. Her role included drawing enemy fire away from the ships loading evacuees—demonstrating extraordinary bravery. In May 1975, she was also one of the lead ships in the dramatic rescue operation of the hijacked SS Mayaguez in Cambodian waters.
Why America Should Care
Today, many Americans may not know that 1.8 million Sailors served in Southeast Asia during the war. They may not realize that 95% of supplies reached Vietnam by sea, or that Navy Seabees built the logistical lifelines that made the war effort possible. And perhaps most importantly, many don’t know that over 1,600 Navy personnel lost their lives, thousands more were wounded—and some were taken as prisoners of war.
We especially honor those who endured captivity, often under brutal conditions, refusing to break and continuing to serve their country with dignity and resolve. Their courage is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the values we hold dear.
We care because these men and women served their country without question—even when the country questioned the war. They are part of the fabric of American history and the foundation of our maritime security.
A Personal Note of Gratitude
As a former sailor on the USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7), I want to give a special shout-out to my shipmates that served during Vietnam and beyond. Our service mattered, and it still does.
I also want to honor my older brother, Chuck. He volunteered in 1968 as a U.S. Army photographer. Wounded in combat and granted a pass to come home, he made the extraordinary choice to go back—to help his buddies. Many of them never made it back. Chuck did, but not before being called a “baby killer” by his own countrymen—while still in bandages from his first Purple Heart. Still, he went back and served his country the best he could. RIP, brother. That’s the kind of quiet heroism that deserves recognition.
Never Forgotten
On behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we say thank you. To the Blue Water sailors who braved open seas, the Brown Water warriors who navigated narrow rivers under fire, the POWs who endured unthinkable hardship, and the crew of the USS Henry B. Wilson—you made history. And to those like many of my shipmates and my brother Chuck, who showed what real duty looks like, your service continues to inspire.
Let’s remember them not just on designated days, but every day.
Learn more, get involved, and stand with us at StrongerNavy.org.
On March 24, 2025, the USS Pinckney (DDG 91) made history. Off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii, the Navy successfully completed Flight Test Other-40 (FTX-40)—also known as Stellar Banshee—using the Aegis Combat System to detect and simulate engagement with a hypersonic missile threat. This test is a major milestone in the United States’ ability to defend against rapidly emerging threats from near-peer adversaries like China and Russia, both of whom are investing heavily in hypersonic technology.
Test Details: Simulating the Future of Warfare
A Medium Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) equipped with a Hypersonic Target Vehicle (HTV-1) was air-launched from a C-17 aircraft. The USS Pinckney used a simulated SM-6 Block IAU interceptor and Lockheed Martin’s latest Aegis Baseline 9 software to detect, track, and engage the target. While no live intercept occurred, the simulated engagement offered critical insights and data collection, validating the system’s ability to counter maneuvering hypersonic threats.
This test also previewed the system’s scalability. Aegis can be deployed at sea or on land—key flexibility in a complex global security environment. The test utilized a virtualized Aegis software configuration, a leap forward in adapting the system for next-generation warfare.
Building on Momentum: Past Successes and What’s Next
FTX-40 follows the success of FTM-32, known as Stellar Sisyphus, in which the USS Preble (DDG 88) intercepted a MRBM with an upgraded SM-6 Dual II missile in a live-fire test. These continued advancements will pave the way for FTM-43, which will aim to perform a live intercept against an HTV-1 target.
The collaboration between the U.S. Navy, the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), Lockheed Martin, and other defense partners signals a renewed commitment to innovation and integrated missile defense.
Why Americans Should Care
Hypersonic missiles travel at speeds greater than Mach 5, can maneuver mid-flight, and are extremely hard to detect and counter with traditional systems. Adversaries like China and Russia are rapidly developing and testing these weapons. If successful, these weapons could bypass our current defenses and strike critical infrastructure, fleets, or even the homeland.
This test shows that the United States is not standing still. Our Navy is preparing for tomorrow’s battles—today. The Aegis Combat System’s evolving capabilities directly protect American service members at sea, allies abroad, and Americans at home. It’s another reason why investment in a stronger Navy isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Implications for the Navy
This test reinforces the Aegis system as the backbone of the Navy’s integrated air and missile defense strategy. With its growing flexibility, the system can support both forward-deployed naval units and U.S.-based missile defense installations. It also helps the Navy operate in contested environments—areas where hypersonic threats are expected to become commonplace.
Implications for Our Allies
Many of our closest allies—Japan, South Korea, Australia—also rely on Aegis-equipped ships or similar missile defense systems. Demonstrating this capability strengthens not only U.S. deterrence but also our credibility with partners. In a world where multilateral defense cooperation is key, proof of performance matters.
Closing Thought
FTX-40 didn’t just simulate a hypersonic intercept—it sent a clear message: The United States Navy is adapting and preparing to meet new challenges head-on. For Americans watching the headlines, this is a win worth knowing—and a mission worth supporting.
Welcome to the launch of our 24-episode educational series at StrongerNavy.org! We’re building on our core mission to support a strong and capable U.S. Navy—one that safeguards American interests at home and abroad—by adding a central focus on civic engagement and personal responsibility. Our goal isn’t just to spread knowledge about naval history or current threats, but to inspire action among citizens who share our commitment to a resilient and unified nation.
Why This Matters Now
China and Russia are testing American economic, military, and technological leadership. The U.S. Navy, historically a guardian of global stability, now defends not only sea lanes but also digital infrastructure, space-based assets, and critical supply chains—all of which touch Americans’ everyday lives. From gas prices to grocery shelves, a strong Navy underpins the economic stability we often take for granted.
Captain Charlie Plumb’s Call to Action
Today, we are honored to feature insights from Captain Charlie Plumb, a retired U.S. Naval Aviator, combat veteran, and former prisoner of war. His message about “packing each other’s parachutes” highlights the team effort required for any crucial mission—underscoring that every American can (and should) contribute to a stronger nation, whether in uniform or as a supportive citizen at home.
Special Video Feature with Captain Charlie Plumb
We invite you to watch this short, inspiring video where Captain Plumb shares his personal story and the significance of “packing each other’s parachutes.”
“How are you contributing to the resilience, teamwork, and unity of our nation? How’s your parachute packing coming along?” – Captain Charlie Plumb
For Captain Plumb, “parachute packing” is both literal and metaphorical—a reminder that we all rely on each other, whether flying fighter jets, maintaining ships, or simply watching out for our neighbors. In the context of Americans for a Stronger Navy, it means stepping up to learn, engage, and take an active part in defending our freedoms.
A Call for National Unity and Civic Engagement
Captain Plumb’s central question—“How are you contributing to resilience, teamwork, and unity?”—is especially relevant in a time of domestic polarization. Our greatest victories, from WWII to the Cold War, depended on national unity. As Captain Plumb discovered, everyone’s role matters: the pilot in the cockpit, the sailor on the deck, the rigger in the parachute loft—and the citizen at home who advocates, volunteers, or serves in the community.
Civic Engagement Matters
A strong Navy is more than just ships and sailors. It depends on:
Public Awareness – Understanding the strategic challenges worldwide, from Cold War legacies to renewed tensions with Russia and China.
Community Support – Standing behind those who serve, including families and veterans, and ensuring our elected representatives stay informed and accountable.
Personal Responsibility – As Captain Plumb emphasizes, each of us has a role. Through service, advocacy, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, we help “pack each other’s parachutes.”
By illuminating pivotal moments—such as Nixon’s visit to China, the evolution of foreign relations with Russia, and how global power shifts shaped today’s challenges—this series aims to equip you with the knowledge to engage confidently in national security discussions.
Sneak Peek: Our 24-Episode Series
Each episode is designed to educate, inspire, and equip you to take meaningful actions—whether that’s contacting your representatives, sharing important facts with your community, or even considering military service. Here’s a high-level look:
1. The Role of the U.S. Navy in American History 2. Lessons from Vietnam: Stories of Resilience and Unity 3. Technology at Sea: From WWII to the Digital Age 4. Nixon’s Visit to China: Turning Points in U.S. Foreign Policy 5. Naval Statecraft and Diplomacy: Building (and Rebuilding) Global Relationships 6. Facing the Soviet Threat: A Cold War Overview 7. Russia Today: How We Got Here and Where We’re Headed 8. China Rising: Economic Power, Global Dominance and Naval Ambitions – A Deep Dive 9. Key Global Hotspots: Straits, Seas, and Chokepoints 10. Life Aboard a Modern Naval Vessel: Voices from the Fleet 11. Women in the Navy: Progress, Challenges, and Future 12. Recruitment & Retention: Why Today’s Youth Matter 13. Veterans’ Perspectives: Transitioning from Service to Civilian Life 14. The Navy’s Humanitarian Missions: Beyond Combat 15. Cybersecurity on the High Seas: New Frontiers of Defense 16. Alliances and Partnerships: NATO, the Pacific, and Beyond 17. Marine Corps & Navy Integration: A Closer Look 18. Naval statecraft, Budget and Strategy: Funding a Future-Ready Navy 19. Emerging Technologies: Drones, AI, and Robotics 20. Civil-Military Relations: Keeping Democracy Strong 21. Environmental Stewardship: Conserving Our Oceans 22. Stories of Heroism: Unsung Sailors and Surprising Tales 23. Leadership 101: Character, Courage, and Command at Sea 24. The Call to Serve: Civic Engagement for a Stronger Nation
Connecting Policy to Practice
From the Jones Act to the Ships Act and the Fleet Act Proposal, policy and legislation play major roles in shaping naval capabilities. We’ll delve into these and other initiatives—like Anti-Lobbying Efforts—to illustrate how specific actions on Capitol Hill determine our Navy’s ability to stay well-funded, well-equipped, and technologically agile. Influencing these policies isn’t reserved for experts in Washington; every American has a voice in ensuring that the Navy remains a formidable force.
The Navy’s Evolving Mission: Sea, Space, and Cyberspace
Gone are the days when naval power was confined to the oceans. Today’s U.S. Navy must also protect undersea cables, fortify space-based assets, and counter cybersecurity threats—all while confronting China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Russia’s resurgent ambitions. In upcoming episodes, we’ll explore AI, autonomous systems, and cyber warfare, offering insight into how the Navy is adapting to 21st-century challenges.
Join Us for This Free Educational Event
Ready to jump in? Here’s how you can get involved:
Register for our FREE online series at StrongerNavy.org.
Share this blog post and Captain Plumb’s video with friends, family, and community groups.
Engage with us on social media using #StrongerNavy—post your own “parachute packing” stories to recognize mentors or teammates who’ve supported you.
Volunteer or Donate to local veterans’ organizations, or find ways to encourage future Navy recruits in your schools and communities.
Conclusion: Pack Each Other’s Parachutes
As Captain Plumb reminds us, every role matters in safeguarding our nation’s security. “Just doing my job, sir” may sound unassuming, but it speaks volumes about the power of teamwork. Whether you’re a sailor in uniform or a concerned citizen writing to your elected officials, your contribution is vital.
Air Wing (CVW) 1, a part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTSCG), conducts flight operations from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)
A New Phase in the Red Sea Conflict
The U.S. Navy has officially escalated its engagement in the Red Sea, transitioning from defensive posturing to sustained combat operations against Iran-backed Houthi forces. This shift follows President Donald Trump’s pledge to employ “overwhelming lethal force” in response to persistent Houthi attacks on commercial and military vessels.
The Mission: Neutralizing Houthi Anti-Ship Capabilities
In a press statement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the campaign aims to dismantle the Houthis’ ability to target international shipping and U.S. assets. Unlike previous limited retaliatory strikes, this new phase includes proactive, sustained efforts to eliminate threats, including:
Additionally, sources indicate that Iranian assets—such as the intelligence-gathering vessel MV Behshad, which has reportedly provided targeting data to Houthi forces—may also be targeted.
Combat Operations Underway
In the past 24 hours, U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets launched from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) have carried out dozens of strikes across Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen. These operations were supported by Tomahawk cruise missile strikes from Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers in the region.
President Trump’s Warning to Iran
In a post on Truth Social, President Trump issued a direct warning to Iran, stating that any Houthi attack would be treated as an Iranian attack:
“Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible… and those consequences will be dire!”
The statement underscores growing concerns that the conflict could escalate into a broader regional war.
Houthi Retaliation and U.S. Response
Despite these warnings, Houthi forces launched 10 attack drones at the USS Truman less than a day after the U.S. strikes. All drones were intercepted before reaching the carrier.
According to CENTCOM, since 2023, Houthi forces have attempted:
174 attacks on U.S. Navy ships
145 attacks on commercial vessels
While no U.S. Navy ship has been successfully struck, commercial shipping has suffered multiple hits, including the sinking of the bulk carrier MV Tutor last year.
Preparing for a Prolonged Conflict
The U.S. Navy has been preparing for this scenario for months, including:
Prepositioning missiles and munitions
Deploying airborne minesweepers
Coordinating additional forces
As tensions escalate, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) Carrier Strike Group is completing COMPUTEX training and may be deployed to reinforce U.S. forces in the region.
Why Americans Should Care
Strategic Waterways Under Threat: The Bab al-Mandab Strait and Red Sea are critical for global trade. Disruptions could impact oil prices and supply chains.
Broader Implications for U.S. National Security: Iran’s role in these attacks highlights the risk of expanded conflict in the Middle East.
Protecting U.S. and Allied Assets: The safety of commercial shipping, as well as military and civilian personnel in the region, remains a top priority.
Implications for the U.S. Navy
Sustained combat operations will test the Navy’s ability to conduct extended engagements while maintaining readiness elsewhere.
Increased missile defense efforts will be critical to counter future threats.
Potential strain on resources could impact deployments in the Pacific and other high-priority regions.
Implications for U.S. Allies
Increased pressure on regional partners (Saudi Arabia, UAE) to respond to Iranian-backed aggression.
Possible involvement of NATO and European allies in securing international shipping routes.
Greater U.S. military presence in the region could shape future diplomatic efforts.
Final Thoughts
With the U.S. Navy now in active combat and President Trump’s warning to Iran, the stakes in the Red Sea have never been higher. Whether this campaign will succeed in neutralizing the Houthi threat or escalate into a larger regional conflict remains to be seen.
One thing is certain—this is a defining moment for U.S. maritime power and its role in global security. Join the discussion on X.
The U.S. military is on the verge of a breakthrough in navigation technology, one that could redefine how forces operate in GPS-denied environments. Lockheed Martin, in collaboration with the Department of Defense’s Innovation Unit (DIU), is developing the Quantum Inertial Navigation System (QuINS)—a system that could eliminate reliance on GPS and provide unparalleled accuracy for military operations.
Bill Cullifer, Founder
For centuries, ocean navigation has evolved through a series of technological breakthroughs that have shaped maritime dominance. In ancient times, sailors relied on celestial navigation, using the stars, sun, and moon to determine their position. The invention of the magnetic compass in the 12th century revolutionized seafaring, allowing ships to travel more confidently across open waters. By the 18th century, the development of the marine chronometer enabled precise longitude calculations, reducing the risk of navigational errors. The 20th century brought radio navigation and inertial navigation systems (INS), allowing submarines and warships to navigate underwater without visual cues. The arrival of GPS in the late 20th century ushered in an era of pinpoint accuracy, integrating satellite technology into global commerce and defense. Now, with adversaries actively working to jam or spoof GPS, navigation is once again at a crossroads. The emergence of quantum navigation systems (QuINS) represents the next leap—providing resilient, GPS-independent positioning to ensure the Navy remains effective even in contested environments. This latest advancement is not just a technological shift; it is part of a centuries-long progression in mastering the seas.
Quantum Navigation: Lockheed Martin’s QuINS and the Future of U.S. Naval Operations
For the U.S. Navy, this innovation has the potential to enhance fleet operations, submarine navigation, and autonomous system deployment, ensuring our naval forces remain dominant even when adversaries attempt to disrupt traditional navigation systems.
What is QuINS?
Unlike conventional navigation systems that rely on GPS satellites, QuINS uses quantum sensing technology to determine a platform’s position, velocity, and orientation purely through internal measurements. This represents a paradigm shift in navigation, ensuring that even in GPS-jammed or denied environments, ships, submarines, and aircraft can accurately determine their location.
Quantum sensors operate by leveraging the fundamental properties of atoms to detect motion with extreme precision. By measuring changes in an object’s motion through quantum mechanics, these systems can maintain accurate positioning without needing an external reference like a satellite signal.
Dr. Valerie Browning, Vice President of Research & Technology at Lockheed Martin, emphasized that the company’s goal is to take quantum navigation from the laboratory to real-world applications, ensuring that national security needs are met before adversaries gain an upper hand.
Why Americans Should Care
Most Americans take GPS for granted—it’s in our cars, phones, and even financial transactions. But what happens when that system is compromised? Adversaries like China and Russia are developing ways to jam or spoof GPS signals, which could have devastating consequences for both military and civilian infrastructure.
Quantum navigation offers a solution that could protect not just the military, but also essential industries like transportation, logistics, and emergency services. A stronger U.S. Navy with independent navigation capabilities means a more secure supply chain, fewer vulnerabilities in cyber warfare, and a nation less reliant on easily targeted satellites.
Why This Matters to the U.S. Navy
The Navy operates in some of the most complex and contested environments in the world. From the South China Sea to the Arctic, ensuring reliable navigation is crucial. Here’s how QuINS could reshape naval operations.
Resilient Submarine and Fleet Navigation
Silent Service Advantage: U.S. Navy submarines operate without GPS while submerged, relying on traditional inertial navigation systems (INS). Quantum INS could significantly improve accuracy over long distances, reducing position drift and enhancing mission effectiveness.
Surface Fleet Operations: GPS jamming has become a strategic threat. China and Russia have demonstrated their ability to spoof or jam satellite signals, making reliable navigation alternatives essential for carrier strike groups, destroyers, and logistical vessels.
Empowering Autonomous and Uncrewed Systems
The Navy is expanding its fleet of uncrewed surface and underwater vehicles (USVs/UUVs) to operate in contested waters.
Without the need for GPS, these assets could navigate undetected, perform reconnaissance missions, and even execute long-range operations with minimal risk of signal interference.
Future AI-driven maritime warfare could integrate quantum navigation to create autonomous fleets that operate independently of satellite-based positioning systems.
Strengthening Cyber Resilience and Electronic Warfare
Adversaries are developing anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons and cyber tools to disrupt GPS-reliant military forces.
With QuINS, U.S. naval forces will have a self-contained, tamper-proof navigation system, significantly reducing vulnerabilities in a cyber-contested environment.
Implications for Our Allies
The U.S. is not the only nation facing threats to navigation systems. Allies operating in the Indo-Pacific, Arctic, and Middle East also rely on GPS for operations. If QuINS proves successful, it could be integrated into joint naval operations, ensuring that allied fleets can maintain cohesive strategies without fearing GPS disruptions.
Partners in AUKUS (Australia, U.K., and U.S.) could benefit significantly from this technology, particularly as Australia seeks to modernize its naval fleet with nuclear-powered submarines under the agreement.
Final Thoughts: A Transformational Shift in Naval Warfare
Quantum navigation has long been viewed as a theoretical future capability, but Lockheed Martin’s QuINS project is bringing that future closer to reality. If successful, this technology will mark a historic leap in military navigation, much like the transition from celestial navigation to GPS decades ago.
For the U.S. Navy, investing in quantum sensing, AI, and autonomous warfare is not just about staying ahead—it’s about ensuring dominance in an era where adversaries are actively working to erode America’s technological and strategic advantages.
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we recognize the importance of peace through strength. Advancements like QuINS ensure that our sailors and warfighters have the best tools available, not just for today’s conflicts, but for the unpredictable battles of tomorrow.
What Do You Think?
Should the Navy move faster in adopting quantum navigation to replace GPS-dependent systems? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the discussion at StrongerNavy.org.
The latest National Security Innovation Base Summit gave the Pentagon a D grade for modernization. A D—not just in shipbuilding, but across the board in weapons innovation, procurement, and efficiency. This isn’t just a bureaucratic failure; it’s a direct threat to America’s national security.
My friend and shipmate from the ‘70s, Captain David Lennon, USNR (Retired), sent me this Fox News article, saying, “This echoes what you and I have been saying.” He’s right. We’ve been warning for years that America’s defense strategy is moving too slowly to keep up with global threats
The Pentagon’s Outdated Approach to Modern Warfare
According to House Armed Services Committee Vice Chair Rob Wittman, the Pentagon operates like the Ford Motor Company in the 1950s—slow, bureaucratic, and resistant to change.
“The Pentagon is the Ford Motor Company of the 1950s. I mean, the way they operate—slow, stoic. ‘Let’s spend years to write a requirement, then let’s spend years to go to a program or record, let’s spend years to acquire.’ By the time we acquire something, guess what? The threat’s way ahead of us.” – Rep. Wittman
That’s the fundamental problem—our enemies aren’t waiting for us to figure things out. China is churning out warships at breakneck speed, modernizing its naval capabilities, and outpacing us in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, the U.S. is stuck in a procurement cycle that takes decades.
Captain Lennon put it bluntly:
“America once built a navy that could fight and win a world war. Today, we struggle to maintain 295 deployable ships while our adversaries launch vessels at breakneck speed. This is not just a shipbuilding problem—it’s a national security crisis.”
Shipbuilding: A Slow-Motion Disaster
The U.S. Navy currently has 295 deployable ships. The plan calls for 390 by 2054, but at this rate, we won’t even keep up with ship retirements.
The Maritime Security Program, which maintains a fleet of privately owned, military-useful ships, is down to just 60 vessels. If a major conflict broke out in the Pacific tomorrow, we wouldn’t have the sealift capability to respond effectively.
And while China expands its navy at an alarming rate, the U.S. struggles with:
Delayed procurement cycles that take years just to approve new ships.
Budget cuts and shifting priorities that prevent consistent progress.
Shipyard bottlenecks due to a weakened industrial base.
Cyber Warfare: The Unseen Battlefield
Another major concern raised in the Fox News report is China’s superiority in cybersecurity. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) stated:
“China specifically is better at cybersecurity than we are. It only takes one or two incursions that we don’t see coming or that we aren’t responsive to, to make an enormous difference here.”
Captain Lennon underscored this growing threat:
“China and Russia don’t just challenge us at sea—they challenge us in cyberspace, in supply chains, and in economic warfare. The Navy can’t just be stronger; it has to be smarter, faster, and ready for an entirely new battlespace.”
The Pentagon’s inability to keep pace in cybersecurity makes America vulnerable. China is hacking into critical infrastructure, stealing defense blueprints, and gaining access to classified information. The next war may not begin with missiles—it may start with an attack on our power grid, financial systems, or military networks.
A White House Office of Shipbuilding? What Comes Next?
The Fox News report also revealed that President Trump is taking a direct interest in shipbuilding. His nominee for Navy Secretary, John Phelan, stated that Trump regularly texts him late at night, asking about the state of the fleet.
Trump announced the creation of a White House Office of Shipbuilding, promising to revitalize ship production. While this sounds promising, the real test will be whether it cuts through the bureaucracy and actually delivers results.
Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) described how slow innovation is killing our ability to compete:
“We’re operating off of an innovation cycle right now that, you know, used to be a decade, and it used to be five years. Then it used to be three years, and now it’s a year or less innovation cycle. In Ukraine, they’re actually operating off of week-long innovation cycles.”
Where Do We Go From Here?
This isn’t just a military problem—it’s an economic and strategic problem that affects every American. If we fail to modernize, we risk losing control of key shipping lanes, economic stability, and military deterrence.
Captain Lennon and I both agree:
“Our nation faces an inflection point. Will we modernize our Navy to meet the challenges ahead, or will we let slow processes and outdated thinking leave us vulnerable? The choice is ours—but the clock is ticking.”
This is Why I’m Launching Our Educational Series
This conversation is exactly why I’m launching the China, Russia, and America: Navigating Global Rivalries and Naval Challenges series.
This 23-episode educational initiative will break down how history, economics, and military strategy shape today’s global threats—and why America must rally behind its Navy.
We’ll dive deeper into shipbuilding, looking at past successes and today’s failures.
We’ll unpack cybersecurity threats, explaining why China and Russia view cyber warfare as a battlefield as real as the Pacific or the South China Sea.
We’ll break down public policy, exposing how red tape and slow procurement cripple our defense efforts.
This series isn’t just about the Navy—it’s about why the Navy matters to you.
We need Americans engaged in this conversation because without public support, we won’t get the changes we need.
Captain Lennon and I will continue speaking out, but we need more voices in this fight.
Join Us. Stay Informed. Take Action.
Follow along at StrongerNavy.org as we roll out this critical series. It’s time to wake up America—before it’s too late.
