Author: Robert Luster

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U.S. Navy’s Readiness Questioned – Admiral Samuel Paparo Provides Key Insights

The U.S. Navy’s readiness is being tested as China continues to build up its naval forces and threatens Taiwan. These concerns were highlighted in a recent 60 Minutes story featuring Admiral Samuel Paparo, onboard the USS Nimitz, deployed near the U.S. territory of Guam, southeast of Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China, or PRC.

Admiral Samuel Paparo commands the U.S. Pacific Fleet, whose 200 ships and 150,000 sailors and civilians make up 60% of the entire U.S. Navy.

“The Navy’s always on alert. One third of the Navy is always deployed and operating at all times. The Navy’s mustering right now about 300 ships, and there are about 100 ships at sea right now all around the globe.” – Admiral Samuel Paparo.

The story emphasized the challenge posed by China’s rapidly growing navy, which now boasts the world’s largest fleet of ships.

CBS 60 minutes with Admiral Samuel Paparo

“The Chinese have made a great effort over the last decade-plus to modernize their navy, and in many cases to achieve parity with us.” – Admiral Samuel Paparo.

The 60 Minutes story also emphasized the need for the U.S. to maintain a strong and capable navy in the face of China’s rise, while also working with its allies in the region to counter China’s ambitions. The story also discussed the situation in Taiwan, where tensions have been rising as China increases its military activities in the region.

“I’ll tell you this: we are here to stay, right, in the South China Sea, and in this part of the world. And I think that’s the message that we really want to convey to not only China, but the entire world. We will sail wherever international law allows.” – Lt. Cmdr. David Ash.

Key takeaways from the story include:

  • The need to increase the Navy’s readiness through more training and better equipment, as well as concerns about a shortage of ships and the impact of budget cuts on the Navy’s ability to maintain its readiness.
  • The saying, which is, “Si Pacem, Para Bellum,” which is, “If you want peace, prepare for war.” Admiral Samuel Paparo.

About Si vis pacem, para bellum

This ancient Latin adage means “If you want peace, prepare for war.” For additional information on this topic click here for earlier post from the Americans for a Stronger Navy blog.

Amidst these challenges, organizations such as the Americans for a Stronger Navy will advocate for a stronger and better-equipped Navy.

The mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy is to educate the public and policymakers about the importance of a strong Navy to national security and economic prosperity.

On behalf of the members of the Americans for Stronger Navy, we would like to salute both Admiral Samuel Paparo, Lt. Cmdr. David Ash, the entire crew for their service and CBS 60 Minutes for covering this important story.

“It is crucial to raise awareness about the threats facing the U.S. Navy and the need to maintain a strong and capable naval presence in the Indo-Pacific region.” – Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Admiral Samuel Paparo

More about Adm. Samuel Paparo

Adm. Samuel Paparo, a native of Morton, Pennsylvania graduated from Villanova University and was commissioned in 1987. He is the son of a former enlisted Marine and the grandson of a World War II enlisted Sailor. He has earned a Master of Arts in International Studies from Old Dominion University and a Master of Science in Systems Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School.

A U.S. Naval Aviator, he is a TOPGUN graduate and has flown over 6,000 hours in the F-14, F-15 and F/A-18 and 1,100 carrier landings.

Operational command tours at sea include Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 in the Forward Deployed Naval Forces, Yokosuka, Japan, deploying in Kitty Hawk Strike Group; VFA 106, NAS Oceana, Va; Commander, Carrier Air Wing 7, embarked in Dwight D. Eisenhower Strike Group and Commander, Carrier Strike Group 10.

Other operational assignments at sea include Fighter Squadron (VF) 14, flying the F-14 Tomcat with USS John F. Kennedy and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Strike Groups and VFA-15, flying the F/A-18 Hornet with USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Enterprise Strike Groups.

In joint operational service, he was Director of Operations (J3) at U.S. Central Command, Tampa, Florida; Battle Director at the Combined Air and Space Operations Center, Al Udeid, Qatar; and Commanding Officer of Provincial Reconstruction Team, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan with the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division and the 173rd Airborne Brigade. He served also on exchange duty with the U.S. Air Force flying the F-15C Eagle with the 71st Fighter Squadron, deploying multiple times to Saudi Arabia and Keflavik, Iceland.

Shore assignments include the staff of Commander, Naval Air Forces, as F/A-18 training, readiness and requirements officer. He was Programming Division (OPNAV N80), Strategy and Resource and Requirements Review Board branch head.

Executive staff tours include service as executive assistant to Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, and executive assistant to the 31st Chief of Naval Operations.

His most recent assignment was commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces, Manama, Bahrain.

Source: US Navy

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Si vis pacem, para bellum – Peace Through Strength

The title “Si vis pacem, para bellum – Peace Through Strength” accurately reflects the central message of Americans for a Stronger Navy and its philosophy that by preparing for war, nations can achieve a lasting peace. This message is deeply rooted in the history of the phrase “Si vis pacem, para bellum,” which has been adopted and adapted by many different groups over the centuries.

For Americans for a Stronger Navy, the idea of preparing for war in order to secure peace is central to their mission. We believe that a strong and capable Navy is essential to protecting the United States and its interests, both at home and abroad. By investing in military programs and promoting policies that support veterans and their families, Americans for a Stronger Navy seeks to ensure that the US Navy remains the most powerful and effective naval force in the world.

The philosophy of Americans for a Stronger Navy is embodied in the phrase “Si vis pacem, para bellum.” This ancient Latin adage means “If you want peace, prepare for war,” and it has become a guiding principle for the organization. We also believe that by deterring potential adversaries and projecting military power when necessary, the US Navy can help to maintain stability and prevent conflicts from escalating. Moreover, a strong Navy can enable the US to provide humanitarian assistance and support to its allies, further promoting peace and stability around the world.

In this way, the message of “Si vis pacem, para bellum” is at the core of the philosophy of Americans for a Stronger Navy. By preparing for war, we hope to achieve a lasting peace that is maintained through strength and deterrence, rather than through conflict and violence. The title “Si vis pacem, para bellum – Peace Through Strength.”

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Welcome Home USS Barry (DDG-52)

USS Barry (DDG-52)

Dear Crew of the USS Barry,

Welcome home! On behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we want to express our deepest appreciation and gratitude for your service to our country over the past six years.

The USS Barry has accomplished so much during its time in Japan, including participating in several multinational exercises and conducting numerous successful operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Your service has helped to promote stability, peace, and security in the region, and we are all incredibly proud of the contributions you have made to the defense of our nation.

Serving your country is an incredible honor and a cherished responsibility that is respected and admired by those at home. Your efforts to protect our freedoms and values, and we are grateful for your unwavering dedication and commitment to duty. Your service and sacrifice remind us of the importance of the Navy’s mission and the vital role it plays in ensuring the safety and security of our nation.

We know that the past six years have been challenging, with long deployments and time away from family and loved ones. We are grateful for the sacrifices you have made and the personal challenges you have overcome to serve our country.

We hope that as you reunite with your families and loved ones, you feel the gratitude and appreciation of a grateful nation. Thank you for your service, and your dedication to the Navy and to our country.

Sincerely, Americans for a Stronger Navy

Barry’s namesake honors Commodore John Barry, the Father of the American Navy, Revolutionary War hero, and first commissioned officer in the United States Navy. Barry is assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.

#ussbarry. #ddg52

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International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2023 Naval exercise concludes

MUSCAT, Oman (March 16, 2023) International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2023 participants conclude the exercise during a final briefing and ceremony in Muscat, Oman, with virtual attendees watching via video teleconference from the IMX Maritime Operations Center in Manama, Bahrain, March 16, 2023. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Jacob Vernier)

The International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2023, a multinational naval exercise, has concluded with a closing ceremony in Oman. The exercise involved naval forces from 35 countries, including the United States, and aimed to enhance maritime security, stability, and interoperability among participating nations. The exercise featured a variety of drills, including anti-piracy operations, mine countermeasures, and maritime interdiction operations. Key takeaways from the exercise include the importance of cooperation and communication among international naval forces, the need for effective coordination and planning in joint operations, and the value of training and preparation for potential real-world scenarios.

Why does this matter

The International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2023 was a significant event because it brought together naval forces from 35 different countries to work together towards the common goal of enhancing maritime security, stability, and interoperability. The exercise provided an opportunity for participating countries to share best practices, build relationships, and improve their collective ability to respond to potential maritime security threats. Additionally, the exercise highlighted the importance of effective communication and coordination among international naval forces, which is crucial for responding to complex security challenges in today’s interconnected world. Ultimately, the IMX 2023 demonstrated the value of multilateral cooperation and preparation for real-world scenarios, making the world safer for everyone.

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Tomahawk Missiles for Australia

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The crew of the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Annapolis (SSN 760) successfully launches Tomahawk cruise missiles off the coast of southern California in 2018.

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has announced a possible sale of Tomahawk cruise missile systems to Australia. The proposed deal is worth an estimated $1.5 billion and would involve the sale of 200 Tomahawk Block V All-Up-Round missiles, along with associated equipment, spare parts, and support services.

The Tomahawk missile system is a long-range, all-weather, subsonic cruise missile that is designed for precision strike missions against heavily defended targets. It is a proven weapon system that has been used extensively in combat operations, most recently in the strikes against Syrian chemical weapon facilities in 2018.

The proposed sale would enhance Australia’s capability to deter regional threats and strengthen its interoperability with the US. It would also support Australia’s maritime security and provide it with an enhanced ability to conduct naval operations independently or in coordination with other allies.

The sale of the Tomahawk missile system to Australia is part of a broader trend of increasing defense cooperation between the US and its allies in the Indo-Pacific region, as they seek to counterbalance China’s growing military power and assertiveness in the region.

The proposed sale is still subject to approval by the US Congress, and it remains to be seen how Australia’s neighbors, particularly China, will respond to the move. However, if approved, the sale could have significant implications for the balance of power in the region and could potentially escalate tensions between the US and China.

Overall, the proposed sale of the Tomahawk missile system to Australia highlights the increasing importance of the Indo-Pacific region in global affairs and the growing significance of defense cooperation among allies in the region. It also underscores the continued rivalry between the US and China, which is likely to shape the region’s security landscape in the years to come.

CNN reports that:

So far only the UK has bought Tomahawks from the US, but recently Japan announced its intention to buy hundreds of the missiles, which cover a distance of more than 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), to boost its defense capabilities.

About Tomahawks

First deployed in the Gulf War in 1991, Tomahawk missiles fly at extremely low altitudes at high subsonic speeds and are controlled by several mission-tailored guidance systems. According to the US Navy, they can be launched from submarines made by the US and the UK, as well as from US Navy ships.

  • The Tomahawk Land Attack Missile is a long-range, all-weather, jet-powered, subsonic cruise missile that is primarily used by the United States Navy and Royal Navy in ship and submarine-based land-attack operations. Source: Wikipedia
  • Maximum speed: Subsonic; ~Mach 0.74. about 567.7 mph (493.3 kn; 913.6 km/h)
  • Engine: Williams International F107-WR-402 turbofan; using TH-dimer fuel; and a solid-fuel rocket booster
  • Manufacturer: General Dynamics (initially); McDonnell Douglas; Hughes Aircraft Corporation; Raytheon Missiles & Defense
    Length: Without booster: 18 ft 3 in (5.56 m) With booster: 20 ft 6 in (6.25 m)
  • Diameter: 20.4 in (0.52 m)
    Mass: 2,900 lb (1,300 kg), 3,500 lb (1,600 kg) with booster
    Unit cost: : $1.87M (FY2017) (Block IV); $2M (FY2022) (Block V);
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Expeditionary Strike Force operations in the South China Sea

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Ships and aircraft from Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (MKI ARG), with embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), operate in formation in the South China Sea.

The U.S. Navy reports on the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s (MEU) operations in the South China Sea, which were conducted in coordination with the USS Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • The 13th MEU participated in Expeditionary Strike Force operations in the South China Sea, which included conducting maritime security operations, amphibious assault rehearsals, and live-fire training exercises.
  • The operations were aimed at demonstrating the U.S. military’s commitment to regional security and stability, as well as enhancing interoperability with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • The article highlights the importance of the South China Sea as a strategic waterway for global commerce and the need to maintain a rules-based international order to ensure free and open access to it.
  • The article also mentions that the 13th MEU is a highly capable, versatile, and expeditionary force that can rapidly deploy to respond to crises and contingencies around the world.
  • Here are a couple of quotes from the article that help to emphasize the key points:

“The South China Sea is a vital waterway for global commerce and maintaining a rules-based international order that allows for free and open access to the region is a top priority for the U.S. and its allies and partners.”

“The 13th MEU is highly capable and ready to respond to a range of crises and contingencies, and we remain committed to working with our partners and allies in the Indo-Pacific to ensure regional security and stability.”

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This Week in Naval History – March 12,-18, 2023

U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Intrepid (CVS-11) underway in the South China Sea

March 12, 1956
The first missile firing aircraft squadron, Attack Squadron 83, is deployed overseas aboard USS Intrepid (CVA 11).

March 13, 1952
During the Korean War, counter-battery engagements by USS Manchester (CL 83), USS James E. Kyes (DD 787), USS McGinty (DE 365) and USS Douglas H. Fox (DD 779) are supported by aircraft from Task Force 77 silence enemy guns at Kalmagak during the Siege of Wonsan.

March 14, 1863
A squadron of ships led by Rear Adm. David G. Farragut passes the heavy batteries at Port Hudson, La., to establish blockade of Red River supply lines during the Civil War. USS Mississippi becomes grounded, catches fire and blows up, killing 64.

March 15, 1957
A ZPG-2 airship driven by Cmdr. Jack R. Hunt lands at Naval Air Station Key West, Fla., after a flight that began March 4 at South Weymouth, Mass., then circled over the Atlantic Ocean toward Portugal, the African coast and back for a new world record in distance and endurance, covering 9,448 statute miles and remaining airborne 264 hours 12 minutes without refueling.

March 16, 1966
Gemini 8 launches. Former naval aviator Neil Armstrong and Air Force Maj. David R. Scott are on this mission that completes seven orbits in 10 hours and 41 minutes at an altitude of 161.3 nautical miles.

March 17, 1958
The Naval Research Laboratory satellite Vanguard 1 is launched into orbit to test the capabilities of a three-stage launch vehicle and effects of the environment on a satellite and its systems in Earths orbit.

March 18, 2006
While conducting maritime security operations as part of Combined Task Force 150 in the Indian Ocean, USS Cape St. George (CG 71) and USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) return fire on a group of pirates, killing one and wounding five. The incident occurs about 25 nautical miles off the central eastern coast of Somalia in international waters

*Source: Naval History and Heritage Command. https://www.history.navy.mil

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Fast Warship Building

Dry Dock Charleston

The article “How Fast Can We Build Warships Today?” discusses the challenges of rapidly building warships in times of crisis, specifically in response to China’s increasing naval power. The author notes that the US Navy’s shipbuilding process is currently slow and inefficient, with complex procurement procedures and limited shipyards.

Key takeaways from the article include:

  • The US Navy needs to be able to rapidly increase its shipbuilding capabilities to counter China’s growing naval power.
  • Current shipbuilding processes are slow and inefficient, and the Navy needs to streamline its procurement procedures and expand its shipyard capacity.
  • Private shipyards could play a larger role in building warships for the Navy.
  • Building a large number of smaller, simpler warships may be a more effective strategy than building a few large, complex ones.

Credit: The National Review, a conservative media outlet that covers politics, policy, and culture. The article was written by Jerry Hendrix, a retired Navy captain and former director of the Naval History and Heritage Command.

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Department of the Navy FY 2024 President’s Budget: A Stronger Navy Ahead

The Department of the Navy has released its FY 2024 President’s Budget, which aims to build a stronger and more capable Navy. The budget includes a total funding request of 8$211.7 billion, with a focus on modernization, readiness, and innovation.

One of the key takeaways from the budget is the emphasis on investing in new technologies and capabilities, such as unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and cyber warfare. This reflects the Navy’s recognition that future conflicts will be fought in multiple domains, including the digital realm.

The Department of the Navy’s (DON) FY 2024 President’s Budget (PB24) request is $255.8B, an increase of $11.1B or 4.5% from the FY 2023 enacted budget.

  • The FY 2024 President’s Budget for the Department of the Navy has a total funding request of $211.7 billion.
  • The budget prioritizes modernization, readiness, and innovation.
  • The Navy aims to invest in new technologies and capabilities such as unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and cyber warfare.
  • The budget emphasizes readiness by increasing the number of ships and aircraft in the fleet and investing in maintenance and training programs.
  • PmThe Navy plans to improve infrastructure and facilities, including shipyards, naval bases, and research facilities.

Overall, the budget demonstrates a commitment to building a stronger and more capable Navy, ready to face the challenges of the 21st century.

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Supporting the US Navy’s Strategic Direction: The Significance of the Americans for a Stronger Navy’s Initiative Outline

The outline of initiatives by Americans for a Stronger Navy is a crucial aspect of the organization’s mission to support the United States Navy’s strategic direction. By focusing on key areas such as strengthening the Navy’s capabilities, promoting international partnerships, supporting readiness efforts, advocating for modernization, and championing personnel and their families, Americans for a Stronger Navy aims to ensure that the Navy remains the most capable and effective naval force in the world. This blog post will highlight the significance of the outline and explain why it matters in supporting the Navy’s strategic direction outlined in the Navigation Plan 2022.

The Navigation Plan 2022, released by the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), outlines the US Navy’s strategic direction for the next decade. The plan focuses on five key areas: warfighting, operating forward, readiness, modernization, and people. It aims to address the challenges faced by the Navy in terms of maintaining its current capabilities while also preparing for future threats and opportunities.

Cheif of Naval Operations Navigation Plan 2022

The plan emphasizes the importance of investing in modern technologies to enhance the Navy’s warfighting capabilities, including hypersonic weapons, unmanned systems, and artificial intelligence. It also prioritizes operating forward, which involves maintaining a constant presence in critical regions around the world, building partnerships with other nations, and conducting joint operations with other branches of the military.

The Navigation Plan 2022 also places a significant emphasis on readiness, which involves ensuring that the Navy is equipped with the resources and personnel needed to respond to crises and conflicts quickly and effectively. It also focuses on modernizing the Navy’s equipment and infrastructure to maintain a competitive edge against emerging threats.

To support the Navy’s strategic direction outlined in the Navigation Plan 2022, initiatives by Americans for a Stronger Navy focus on the following:

  1. Strengthening the Navy’s capabilities through increased funding: The organization advocates for robust funding to support the Navy’s modernization efforts, including the development and acquisition of advanced technologies.

2. Promoting international partnerships and alliances: Americans for a Stronger Navy supports the Navy’s operating forward strategy by advocating for partnerships and alliances with other nations to enhance interoperability and build regional security.

3. Supporting readiness efforts: The organization works to ensure that the Navy has the necessary resources and personnel to maintain readiness and respond to threats quickly and effectively.

4. Advocating for modernization: Americans for a Stronger Navy advocates for modernizing the Navy’s equipment and infrastructure to ensure that it remains competitive and effective against emerging threats.

5. Championing personnel and their families: The organization focuses on promoting policies and initiatives that support Navy personnel and their families, including efforts to enhance benefits, improve quality of life, and provide better healthcare.

7. Overall, the Navigation Plan 2022 and the initiatives by Americans for a Stronger Navy share a common goal of ensuring that the US Navy remains the most capable and effective naval force in the world, capable of responding to emerging threats and challenges in the coming decade.