Author: Robert Luster

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The USS Ted Stevens: The Ship That Can Strike Anywhere in Minutes

USS Ted Stevens (DDG-128)

Hello, members and subscribers of Stronger Navy! We are back with another exciting update on the latest developments in America’s naval power.

Today, we are going to talk about the USS Ted Stevens (DDG-128), a new Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer that will be one of the most powerful and lethal warships in the world.

The ship was launched on August 15, 2023, and was christened on August 19, 2023, by his widow and daughters.

The ship is named after the late Senator Ted Stevens, who served Alaska for over 40 years and was a strong supporter of the Navy and the Marine Corps. He was also a decorated World War II pilot who flew missions in China, Burma, and India.

He survived several plane crashes, including one in 1978 that killed his first wife and another one in 2010 that killed him and four others. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The USS Ted Stevens is the third ship of the Flight III of the Arleigh Burke-class, which features improved capabilities in missile defense, air warfare, and electronic warfare.

The Flight III ships are equipped with the AN/SPY-6 (V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which is 35 times more powerful than the previous radar systems and can detect and track multiple threats simultaneously.

The Flight III ships also have the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, which can launch hypersonic missiles that can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and strike targets anywhere in the world within minutes.

The USS Ted Stevens will be one of the first ships to carry this system, which will give it a significant edge over potential adversaries.

The USS Ted Stevens will join the USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) and its sister ships as part of America’s naval power projection in an era of great power competition.

The USS Zumwalt is a revolutionary ship that represents the future of naval warfare, with its stealth design, electric propulsion, and potential to carry hypersonic weapons.

The ship’s homeport shift from San Diego to Pascagoula, Mississippi, is part of a plan to upgrade the ship with new technologies and systems, such as the CPS system. The USS Zumwalt and its sister ships will provide a significant boost to America’s naval power and deterrence.

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about the USS Ted Stevens and its significance for America’s naval power.

We invite you to share your thoughts and opinions on this topic in the comments section below. Thank you for your support and stay tuned for more updates from Stronger Navy!

  • The USS Ted Stevens is the third ship of the Flight III of the Arleigh Burke -class, which features improved capabilities in missile defense, air warfare, and electronic warfare. The Flight III ships are equipped with the AN/SPY-6 (V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which is 35 times more powerful than the previous radar systems and can detect and track multiple threats simultaneously. The Flight III ships also have the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, which can launch hypersonic missiles that can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and strike targets anywhere in the world within minutes.
  • The USS Ted Stevens will be one of the first ships to carry this system, which will give it a significant edge over potential adversaries.
  • The USS Ted Stevens is named after Ted Stevens, who was the longest serving Republican U.S. senator in history when he left office in 2009. He represented Alaska for over 40 years and was a strong advocate for the Navy and the Marine Corps.
  • He was also a decorated World War II pilot who flew missions in China, Burma, and India. He survived several plane crashes, including one in 1978 that killed his first wife and another one in 2010 that killed him and four others. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
  • The USS Ted Stevens was launched on August 15, 2023, at the Ingalls Shipbuilding division of Huntington Ingalls Industries in Pascagoula, Mississippi. It was christened on August 19, 2023, by his widow Catherine Ann Stevens and his daughters Susan Stevens Covich, Lily Irene Becker, and Karina Stevens.
  • The ship’s motto is “Lead with Courage”, which reflects Ted Stevens’ legacy of leadership and service. The ship’s crest features a grizzly bear, which symbolizes Alaska’s wildlife and Ted Stevens’ nickname “Uncle Ted”. It also features a gold star, which represents his military service and his Medal of Freedom. The ship’s hull number is DDG-128, which coincides with Ted Stevens’ birthday on November 28.
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Why the USS Zumwalt’s Homeport Shift Matters for America’s Naval Power

USS Zumwalt

The USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) is the lead ship of the Zumwalt class, the most advanced and lethal surface combatants in the world. The ship departed San Diego on August 1, 2021, and will shift its homeport from San Diego to Pascagoula, Mississippi. This move is not just a routine relocation, but a strategic decision that will enhance the ship’s capabilities and readiness for future missions.

The Zumwalt Class: A Game-Changer for Naval Warfare

The Zumwalt class is a new generation of multi-mission destroyers designed to strengthen naval power from the sea. These ships feature a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, a wave-piercing tumblehome hull, a stealth design, and the latest warfighting technology and weaponry available. The Zumwalt class can perform a range of deterrence, power projection, sea control, and command and control missions, while allowing the Navy to evolve with new systems and threats.

Some of the unique features of the Zumwalt class include:
• A larger flight deck and hangar than any other surface combatant, capable of accommodating two MH-60R helicopters or three MQ-8 Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicles.
• A multifunction radar (MFR) that provides air and missile defense, surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense capabilities.
• A dual-band sonar that enables anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare.
• A vertical launching system (VLS) that can hold up to 80 missiles of various types and sizes, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, Standard missiles, Evolved Sea Sparrow missiles, and Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rockets.
• Two advanced gun systems (AGS) that can fire long-range precision projectiles at a rate of 10 rounds per minute.
• A reduced crew size of 142 sailors, thanks to automation and integration of ship systems.

The Conventional Prompt Strike: A New Weapon for a New Era

The USS Zumwalt will undergo a modernization period in Pascagoula, where it will receive technology upgrades including the integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) weapons system. CPS is a hypersonic boost-glide missile development and test program that provides longer range, shorter flight times, and high survivability against enemy defenses. CPS is a joint effort between the Navy and the Army, and will be deployed on both surface ships and submarines.

Hypersonic weapons are those that can travel at speeds above Mach 5 (or five times the speed of sound). They can maneuver unpredictably in flight, making them harder to detect and intercept by conventional air defense systems. They can also deliver conventional warheads with high accuracy and lethality, without relying on nuclear deterrence.
CPS will give the USS Zumwalt and other platforms a new capability to conduct prompt and precise strikes against high-value targets anywhere in the world within one hour. This will enhance the U.S. military’s ability to respond to emerging threats and crises, as well as deter potential adversaries from aggression.

The Future of Naval Power: Ready for What’s Ahead

The USS Zumwalt’s homeport shift is not only a logistical change, but also a sign of the Navy’s commitment to innovation and adaptation. The Zumwalt class and the CPS weapons system are examples of how the Navy is investing in cutting-edge technologies that will ensure its dominance in the maritime domain for decades to come.

As members and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we applaud this decision and look forward to seeing the USS Zumwalt in action. We believe that a strong navy is not a want but a need for our nation’s security and prosperity. We also believe that our sailors deserve the best equipment and training to carry out their missions.

We hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new about our navy’s capabilities. If you want to learn more about the USS Zumwalt or other naval topics, please visit our website or follow us on social media.

Thank you for your attention and support.

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How a Single Senator is Jeopardizing Our Naval Leadership and Security

We at the Americans for a Stronger Navy are deeply concerned about the current situation in the Senate, where more than 300 military nominations are being blocked by a single senator. This unprecedented and irresponsible action is putting our national security and our naval capabilities at risk.

The Senate Hold: What Is It and Why Is It Happening?

A Senate hold is a parliamentary procedure that allows any senator to delay or prevent a vote on a nomination or a bill. It is not a rule, but a courtesy that the Senate leadership usually honors. However, it can also be abused for political or personal reasons.

That is what Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama is doing. He has placed a hold on more than 300 military nominations since February 2023, demanding that the Pentagon reverse its decision to cancel a contract with an Alabama company that was supposed to build a new missile defense system. The contract was canceled due to cost overruns, technical failures, and ethical violations.

Senator Tuberville claims that he is fighting for the jobs and the security of his state, but he is actually hurting the entire country and the military services that he claims to support. He is holding hostage the careers and the futures of hundreds of officers who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation.

The Impact of the Hold: How It Affects Our Military Services and Our National Security

Ladies and gentlemen, to tackle the national-security challenges of the 21st century, we need our Navy more than ever,” Austin said. “It’s especially vital in today’s world.”

As you may have heard, Admiral Michael Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, relinquished his command on Monday, August 14, after serving for four years as the Navy’s top admiral. He was praised by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin for his dedication to advancing American sea power at a critical time for global security.

However, his nominated successor, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, has not been confirmed by the Senate due to the hold imposed by Senator Tuberville. Franchetti, who has been serving as the Vice Chief of Naval Operations since September 2022, would become the first female CNO and the first woman on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, if confirmed.

She is not the only one affected by this hold. The Army and the Marine Corps are also operating without confirmed leaders, as General Randy George and General Eric Smith are also waiting for their confirmations. This is the first time in history that three military services are without Senate-confirmed chiefs.

This is unacceptable and dangerous. The hold is undermining our military readiness, hindering our ability to retain our best officers, and upending the lives of far too many military families. It is also hampering our efforts to deter conflict and keep the peace in the Indo-Pacific region, where we rely on our Navy to sail, fly, and operate wherever international law allows.

The Solution: How We Can End the Hold and Confirm Our Military Leaders

We urge Senator Tuberville to lift his hold immediately and allow these highly qualified and experienced officers to assume their rightful positions.

We also urge all senators to fulfill their constitutional duty and confirm these nominations without further delay. Our national security and our naval strength depend on it.

We thank Admiral Gilday for his service and his leadership, and we wish him all the best in his retirement. We also congratulate Admiral Franchetti on her nomination and we hope to see her confirmed soon as the next CNO.

We also ask you, our readers and supporters, to join us in this cause.

Please contact your senators and express your support for the Navy and the military nominations. You can find their contact information by clicking here.

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our Navy and our military have the leaders they deserve.

Thank you for your support and your attention.
Sincerely,
Americans for a Stronger Navy

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Steadying the Helm: Senator Wicker’s Call for a Resilient U.S. Navy Amidst Rising Global Challenges

Introduction U.S. Senator Roger Wicker stressed the urgency for the U.S. to bolster its naval capabilities, given China’s growing naval threat. This issue isn’t merely military; it’s pivotal for our nation’s global standing.

Significance of a Strong U.S. Navy:

  1. Historical Influence: America’s global prominence has long been linked to naval power.
  2. Strategic Importance: A dominant Navy is crucial for deterrence, especially in the Western Pacific.
  3. Economic Implications: Controlling sea lanes ensures economic prosperity.
  4. Regional Stability: A potent naval presence maintains a balanced power in the Asia-Pacific region.

State of Affairs:

  • China aims to have the world’s largest fleet of warships.
  • The U.S. naval fleet is under pressure as ships are retired rapidly.
  • China’s dominance in vital sea routes can disrupt global trade and diplomatic relations.

Key Advocacies from Senator Wicker:

  1. Infrastructure Investments: Directing funds for shipbuilding.
  2. Modern Capabilities: Implementing advanced technologies to enhance naval strength.
  3. Backing Successful Initiatives: Championing programs that deter threats effectively.

Legislative Watch: Senator Wicker is actively pushing for:

  1. The SHIPYARD Act for a $25 billion investment in shipbuilding.
  2. Increased support for the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program.
  3. Naval upgrades, such as unmanned platforms and long-range munitions.
  4. Funding for amphibious ships in the upcoming NDAA.

Questions for Senator Wicker:

  1. How does the Senate plan to rectify the naval imbalance promptly?
  2. Can private industries assist in the naval revitalization efforts?
  3. Beyond funds, what policy shifts are needed for a swift naval upgrade?
  4. What are the strategies to ensure the U.S. Navy’s competitiveness?
  5. How are international relations being used to enhance naval strengths?

Conclusion: The peace of the free world hinges on our Navy’s strength. We must remain informed and active, ensuring a robust Navy for the years ahead.

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Admiral Ted Carter: A Role Model for Naval Excellence

Introduction

The U.S. Navy is one of the most powerful and respected naval forces in the world. It has a proud history of defending our nation and its allies, projecting our influence and values, and advancing our interests and security. The Navy is also a source of inspiration and excellence for many Americans, who admire its professionalism, discipline, and courage. But behind every great Navy, there are great people. People who dedicate their lives to serving their country and their fellow sailors. People who exemplify the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment. People who lead by example and make a difference in the world. One of these people is Admiral Ted Carter, a retired Vice Admiral who served in the Navy for 38 years and achieved remarkable feats of naval aviation, command, and education. In this blog post, we will tell you more about Admiral Ted Carter and why he is a role model for naval excellence. We hope you will enjoy reading his story and learning from his wisdom.

Career Highlights

Admiral Ted Carter’s career is a testament to his dedication, courage, and excellence in naval service. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1981, where he majored in oceanography, lettered in ice hockey, and was the editor in chief of the satirical magazine The LOG. He became a Naval Flight Officer in 1982 and graduated from the Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) in 1985. He flew F-4, F-14, and F/A-18 aircraft in various squadrons and participated in several operations, such as Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Southern Watch, and Allied Force. He commanded the VF-14 “Tophatters”, the USS Camden (AOE-2), the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), and the Carrier Strike Group Twelve. He also served as the executive officer of the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) and the joint enabling capabilities commander of the U.S. Joint Forces Command.

Admiral Carter’s achievements and awards are numerous and impressive. He received the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal (2), the Legion of Merit (3), the Distinguished Flying Cross (with valor), the Bronze Star, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (4), the Air Medal (3, 2 with valor and 5 Strike/Flight), the Navy Commendation Medal (5, 2 with valor), and the Joint Service Achievement Medal. He also earned a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School and completed several professional courses at the Air War College and the Armed Forces Staff College.

Leadership Roles

Admiral Carter’s leadership and wisdom are evident in his speeches and interviews. He has shared his insights on topics such as ethics, personal growth, naval history, education, innovation, diversity, and national security. He has also expressed his gratitude and admiration for his mentors, peers, subordinates, students, family, and friends who have supported him throughout his journey.

Admiral Carter held several prestigious commands and positions that demonstrated his vision and values. He was the president of the U.S. Naval War College from 2013 to 2014, where he oversaw the education of more than 1,600 students from all branches of service. He was also the superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy from 2014 to 2019, where he led more than 4,400 midshipmen and 1,500 faculty and staff. He was responsible for implementing several initiatives to improve academic excellence, athletic performance, character development, diversity inclusion, sexual assault prevention, cyber security, energy efficiency, and alumni relations. He was also the commander of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group from 2010 to 2012, where he led more than 6,000 sailors and marines on board seven ships during a historic deployment that marked the final voyage of the USS Enterprise (CVN-65).

Current Position

Admiral Carter is currently the president of the University of Nebraska System, where he continues to lead and inspire with his vision and values. He assumed office on January 1st 2020, becoming the eighth president of the system that comprises four campuses with more than 51,000 students. He has focused on advancing academic quality, student success, research innovation, economic development, diversity equity, community engagement, and pandemic response. He has also advocated for increasing state funding for higher education, expanding online learning opportunities, and strengthening partnerships with the military and veterans.

Personality Traits

Admiral Carter is not only a role model for naval excellence, but also a nice guy to know and work with. Based on the web search results, Admiral Ted Carter has a friendly and approachable personality, as well as a sense of humor and humility. He is known for his nickname “Slapshot”, which reflects his career as a star hockey player in college. He also edited a satirical magazine called The LOG when he was at the Naval Academy. He has expressed his gratitude and admiration for his mentors, peers, subordinates, students, family, and friends who have supported him throughout his journey. He has also shared his insights on topics such as ethics, personal growth, naval history, education, innovation, diversity, and national security. He has inspired many people with his passion and optimism.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this blog post about Admiral Ted Carter, a role model for naval excellence. We at Americans for a stronger navy believe that a strong navy is essential for protecting our national interests and values, as well as those of our allies and partners. We believe that Admiral Ted Carter exemplifies what it means to be a naval officer and a leader of character. And we believe that he can inspire us all to strive for excellence in our own endeavors.

If you want to join our cause or learn more about our organization, please subscribe to our blog and newsletter. Thank you for your attention and support.

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U.S. Navy’s New Stance: 3,000 Strong in the Strait of Hormuz

In this photo released Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023, by Sepahnews of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, the Guard’s speedboats participate during a drill in the Persian Gulf. The U.S. military is considering putting armed personnel on commercial ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz, in what would be an unheard of action aimed at stopping Iran from seizing and harassing civilian vessels,

Greetings to members and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy. The Strait of Hormuz, a globally critical maritime channel, is once again in the spotlight. As reported by ABC News on August 7, 2023, more than 3,000 U.S. Marines and sailors have been swiftly deployed to the Middle East.

Their mission? To deter Iran from its growing ambitions of seizing and harassing merchant ships in the region. This pivotal move underscores the strategic and economic importance of the strait, and the lengths the U.S. is willing to go to protect it.

The Strait’s Global Significance

Economic Lifeline: This narrow passage facilitates a colossal volume of global maritime oil and gas trade daily.

The Tension Rises: The U.S. Navy has highlighted the gravity of the situation, declaring Iran’s actions a considerable “threat to … maritime security and the global economy.”
Delving Into the Current U.S. Strategy

Operational Readiness: The newly deployed troops, stationed on the USS Carter Hall and USS Bataan, come well-equipped with advanced aircraft and tactical assets, reinforcing the U.S.’s commitment to this global chokepoint.

Marines Onboard: A bold move sees U.S. Marines taking positions on commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Initiated by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, this strategy aims to serve as a strong deterrent against Iranian threats.

Iran’s Increasing Aggression

Continual Harassment: Recent reports outline Iran’s alarming behavior, from seizing oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman to continually threatening maritime security since 2021.
Iran Pushes Back: Not all claims go uncontested. Iranian officials attribute some of their actions to alternative motives, like responding to distress calls.

Looking Ahead: A Proactive Naval Response

Anticipated Protection: The U.S. is actively awaiting requests from commercial entities desiring protection in the region. This initiative, available voluntarily, extends to U.S.-flagged ships and those associated with American interests.

Conclusion and Advocacy

The Strait of Hormuz’s emerging challenges highlight the urgent need for a fortified naval stance. As “Americans for a Stronger Navy,” we relentlessly advocate for robust naval preparedness. Let’s champion the cause of maritime security together.

Join the Cause
Subscribe and lend your support. Together, we can make a difference!

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Guardians of the Sea: The Philippines, China, and the Legacy of the Sierra Madre

Introduction

Amid the vastness of the South China Sea, an aging warship rests as a symbol of sovereignty, determination, and regional tension. This rusting relic, the BRP Sierra Madre, has inadvertently become the flashpoint of geopolitical contention between the Philippines and China. While for some it may appear as just a dilapidated warship, its importance transcends its physical condition. By understanding its past and its current role, we can appreciate the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy and the call for unity and strength across the seas.

https://youtu.be/duhNoYsqnGo
Legacy of the Sierra Madre

Summary

The South China Sea has always been a hotspot for territorial disputes. The Philippines has made a move to assert its presence by grounding the Sierra Madre, a warship with a rich history, on Second Thomas Shoal. This strategic decision was made in response to China’s increasing maritime activities, especially after the occupation of the nearby Mischief Reef. The ship, though no longer seaworthy, still holds significance as an extension of Philippines’ sovereign territory. The recent actions by the Chinese coast guard, including the use of water cannons, underline the rising tensions and the urgency to address maritime rights and sovereignty.

Key Takeaways

  • Legacy of the Sierra Madre: Originally a US tank-landing ship, the Sierra Madre was later acquired by the Philippines navy and has since been a symbol of the Philippines’ presence and territorial claim in the South China Sea.
  • Strategic Importance: The ship was grounded on Second Thomas Shoal in the late 1990s as a countermove to China’s growing dominance and occupation of nearby areas. It remains a testament to the Philippines’ resolve in upholding its maritime rights.
  • Recent Tensions: China’s recent aggressive actions against the Sierra Madre, including firing water cannons at Philippine vessels, reflect the escalating tension in the region.

Conclusion

The story of the Sierra Madre is not just of a ship, but of resilience, strategy, and a fight for sovereignty. As tensions rise, the importance of a stronger and unified maritime force becomes increasingly evident. We, the Americans for a Stronger Navy, stand in solidarity with our allies and urge all to recognize the importance of preserving maritime rights. We are proud to be part of a community that values the significance of these waterways, and we call upon every American to join us in bolstering our mission and securing a safer future for all.

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USS Mobile Bay: A Proud Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

USS Mobile Bay

Introduction

America’s maritime power is not just measured by the number of ships we have, but by the stories of valiance, determination, and sacrifice that these ships and their crews have given to the nation. Today, we pay tribute to the USS Mobile Bay, a vessel that represents the very ethos of the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Summary

For over 36 years, the USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) has stood as a testament to the indomitable spirit and prowess of the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1987, this Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser has not only navigated the vast expanse of the world’s oceans but has also played a pivotal role in safeguarding American interests and values in various capacities, from Operation Desert Storm to humanitarian efforts during natural disasters.

Key Takeaways

  • Historic Legacy: The USS Mobile Bay is named after the pivotal Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, carrying forth the spirit of Adm. David Farragut’s decisive action and the ship’s motto, “Full speed ahead.”
  • Diverse Operations: The ship’s operational history is diverse, ranging from the evacuation of the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, missile launches during Operation Desert Storm, to humanitarian relief during Operation Fiery Vigil in 1991.
  • Exemplary Service: Throughout its tenure, the USS Mobile Bay served with distinction in the U.S. Atlantic, Seventh, and U.S. Pacific Fleet.
  • Tribute to Heroes: The ship’s sponsor, Kathryn Jane Maury, had deeply personal ties to naval service, establishing a connection between the ship and the heroes who have made sacrifices for our country.

Conclusion

The decommissioning of the USS Mobile Bay may symbolize the end of an era, but the stories of resilience, courage, and dedication it carries will remain undimmed. It stands as a reminder of what our Navy represents and why it is vital for us to ensure that its legacy continues. As proud members of the Navy community and as engaged Americans, let’s rally behind our mission to ensure our maritime power remains strong. To the men and women who served aboard the USS Mobile Bay, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your service reminds us all of the unwavering spirit of our great nation.

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Why America Needs a Stronger Navy Now More Than Ever

(Aug. 7, 2023) The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) steams in formation during a photo exercise with the Italian navy Todaro-class submarine(S 527) and the first-in-class Greek navy frigate HS Elli (F 450), Aug. 7, 2023. Forces from Standing NMaritime Group 2 (SNMG 2) and the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) are conducting the Sage Wolverine series of high-end maritime training events in the Central Mediterranean Sea to increase NATO interoperability a promote regional peace and stability. (U.S.

The United States of America is a maritime nation. Its security, prosperity, and leadership depend on its ability to project power and influence across the oceans. For more than two centuries, the U.S. Navy has been the guardian of the nation’s interests and values at sea, deterring aggression, ensuring freedom of navigation, providing humanitarian assistance, and supporting global stability.However, the U.S. Navy faces unprecedented challenges in the 21st century. The rise of China as a peer competitor, the resurgence of Russia as an adversary, the proliferation of rogue states and non-state actors, and the emergence of new domains such as cyberspace and space pose serious threats to the U.S. and its allies. These challenges require a stronger navy that can operate in all domains, across all regions, and against all adversaries.

In this article, we will examine why a stronger navy is vital for the U.S., how it can enhance its capabilities and readiness, and what it can achieve in cooperation with its NATO allies. We will draw on the latest facts and analysis from credible sources, such as naval experts, military officials, and academic scholars.

Why a Stronger Navy is Vital for the U.S.

For the United States, a stronger navy is not a “want” but a “need.” Historically, it has been extremely effective at advancing U.S. national interests. It is critical to deterring foreign adversaries and maintaining prosperity, not just for the U.S., but for all nations.

A stronger navy can deter potential enemies from attacking or coercing the U.S. or its allies. By maintaining a credible presence and demonstrating superior capabilities, the U.S. Navy can signal its resolve and commitment to defend its interests and uphold international norms. A stronger navy can also prevent conflicts from escalating by providing options for de-escalation and crisis management.

A stronger navy can also ensure the free flow of trade and commerce across the world’s oceans. The U.S. Navy protects the vital sea lanes that carry more than 90% of global trade, including energy resources, food supplies, and manufactured goods. A stronger navy can also foster economic growth and development by enabling access to new markets and opportunities.

A stronger navy can also support global peace and stability by participating in multilateral operations and engagements. The U.S. Navy contributes to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, counterterrorism and counterproliferation efforts, maritime security and law enforcement activities, and capacity building and partnership initiatives. A stronger navy can also enhance interoperability and cooperation with allies and partners, especially NATO members.

How to Build a Stronger Navy

Building a stronger navy requires investing in modernization, innovation, and expansion. The U.S. Navy needs to acquire new platforms, systems, and technologies that can meet the current and future threats. It also needs to develop new concepts, doctrines, and strategies that can leverage its advantages and overcome its challenges. It also needs to grow its force structure, manpower, and readiness to sustain its presence and operations.

One of the key priorities for building a stronger navy is to increase its shipbuilding budget and accelerate its ship production rate. The U.S. Navy currently has 306 ships in its fleet, far below its peak of 594 in 1987 . The Department of Defense estimates that China has 355 ships in its fleet , many of which are increasingly capable and modern. The U.S. Navy aims to reach a fleet size of 355 ships by 2035 , but this goal faces significant fiscal and industrial constraints.

To achieve this goal, the U.S. Navy needs to invest more in shipbuilding programs that can deliver more ships faster, cheaper, and better. These programs include the Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers , which are the most advanced aircraft carriers in the world; the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers , which are the backbone of the surface fleet; the Virginia-class attack submarines , which are the stealthiest submarines in the world; and the Constellation-class frigates , which are the newest addition to the fleet.

Another priority for building a stronger navy is to embrace new technologies that can enhance its capabilities and effectiveness. These technologies include artificial intelligence , which can improve decision making and automation; hypersonic weapons , which can travel faster than five times the speed of sound; unmanned systems , which can operate autonomously or remotely; cyberwarfare , which can disrupt or defend networked systems; and space systems , which can provide communication, navigation, surveillance, and targeting support.

To leverage these technologies, the U.S. Navy needs to foster a culture of innovation and experimentation that can generate new ideas and solutions. It also needs to collaborate with the private sector, the academic community, and the international partners that can provide expertise and resources. It also needs to update its acquisition and procurement processes that can facilitate rapid and agile development and deployment.

What a Stronger Navy Can Achieve with NATO Allies

Building a stronger navy is not only a national endeavor, but also a collective one. The U.S. Navy cannot achieve its objectives alone, but only in cooperation with its NATO allies. Together, they can form a formidable force that can deter, defend, and defeat any adversary.

The U.S. Navy and its NATO allies share common interests and values in the maritime domain. They both seek to ensure the security and stability of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, the Baltic Sea, and the Black Sea. They both face similar threats from Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, and terrorist groups. They both benefit from the free and open access to the global commons.

The U.S. Navy and its NATO allies also have a long history of cooperation and coordination in the maritime domain. They have established various mechanisms and frameworks that facilitate their interoperability and integration. These include the Standing NATO Maritime Groups , which are multinational naval forces that conduct routine patrols and exercises; the NATO Maritime Command , which is the operational headquarters that oversees all maritime activities; and the NATO Maritime Strategy , which is the guiding document that outlines the vision and objectives for the maritime domain.

The U.S. Navy and its NATO allies also conduct regular exercises and operations that enhance their readiness and effectiveness. One such exercise is Sage Wolverine , a series of high-end maritime training events that involve forces from SNMG 2 and the GRFCSG . The exercise, which began on July 31 and will end on August 15, 2023, aims to increase NATO interoperability and promote regional peace and stability .

One of the highlights of Sage Wolverine was a photo exercise that took place on August 7 in the Ionian Sea. The photo exercise featured the Greek navy frigate HS Elli (F 450), the Italian navy Todaro-class submarine ITS Scirè (S 527), and the USS Ramage (DDG 61) in formation with the Gerald R. Ford in the background . The photo exercise demonstrated the close cooperation and coordination among the participating forces .

Conclusion

The United States of America needs a stronger navy now more than ever. A stronger navy is vital for deterring foreign adversaries, ensuring freedom of navigation, providing humanitarian assistance, and supporting global stability. A stronger navy can be built by investing in modernization, innovation, and expansion. A stronger navy can achieve more by working with its NATO allies.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy is a non-profit organization that advocates for increasing the naval power of the U.S. We believe that a stronger navy is essential for protecting our nation, advancing our interests, and promoting our values. We urge our fellow citizens, our elected representatives, and our military leaders to support our cause and join our efforts.

If you want to learn more about our organization, our mission, and our activities, please visit our website at https://strongernavy.org/. Thank you for your attention and interest.

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How the US Navy and Marines are Countering Iran’s Threats in the Gulf

USS Bataan


The US Navy and Marines are increasing their presence and capabilities in the Persian Gulf region amid rising tensions with Iran over its nuclear program and its attempts to seize commercial tankers.

The Pentagon has sent more than 3,000 personnel and Marines, along with the USS Bataan, an amphibious assault ship that can carry dozens of aircraft and landing craft, to join the 5th Fleet based in Bahrain.

The Marines are training to escort and protect commercial shipping from Iranian harassment and aggression, which has escalated in recent months.

The US also deployed stealth F-35 fighters and other warplanes to the region to enhance its air power and deterrence.

The US military buildup comes as the diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran have stalled, and as a UN sanctions deadline on Iran approaches in October. Iran has been enriching uranium closer to weapons-grade levels and developing new ballistic missiles that can target US ships and bases.

Iran has also been involved in a series of attacks on oil tankers and facilities in the Gulf region since 2019, which have strained its relations with its Arab neighbors and raised the risk of a wider conflict.

The US hopes that its show of force will persuade Iran to return to the negotiating table and comply with the nuclear deal, as well as to respect the freedom of navigation and security of commercial shipping in the Gulf. However, Iran has denounced the US military presence as a threat to its sovereignty and regional stability, and has vowed to continue its nuclear activities and defend its interests.

The situation remains volatile and unpredictable, as both sides are testing each other’s resolve and red lines.

For more information on this topic, you can check out these news sources:
• U.S. Marines Are at the Ready to Protect Commercial Ships in the Persian Gulf
• Why is US sending 3,000 Navy, Marines force to Persian Gulf?
• Analysis: Buildup of American forces in Persian Gulf a new signal of worsening US-Iran conflict

About the USS Bataan

Aircraft carried
Actual mix depends on the mission
Standard Complement:
6 AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft
or
6 F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters
4 AH-1W /Z Super Cobra /Viper attack helicopter
12 MV-22B Osprey assault support tiltrotor
4 CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopters
3–4 UH-1Y Venom utility helicopters
Assault:
22+ MV-22B Osprey assault support tiltrotor
Sea Control:
20 AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft
or
20 F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters
6 SH-60F/HH-60H ASW helicopters