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.
(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.
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
In a historic first, a joint naval patrol consisting of Chinese and Russian military vessels approached US territory near Alaska, raising concerns about security and territorial sovereignty. This article delves into the details of the event, the US response, and the implications for the region and international relations.
Summary
The Combined Naval Patrol: The Wall Street Journal reported on the joint naval patrol, which was the largest flotilla to approach US territory. Experts weighed in on the significance of this maneuver amid geopolitical tensions.
US Response: In response to the Chinese and Russian flotilla, the US dispatched four navy warships and a reconnaissance airplane. The presence of these vessels aimed to assure the defense of the United States and Canada.
Chinese and Russian Statements: The Chinese embassy in Washington DC emphasized that the naval patrol was not targeted at any third party and was part of their annual cooperation plan. The US Northern Command corroborated this, stating that the patrol remained in international waters and was not considered a direct threat.
Alaska Senators’ Reactions: Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan expressed vigilance in monitoring the situation closely. They stressed the importance of Alaska’s role in national defense and territorial sovereignty, especially given the proximity to China and Russia.
Key Takeaway: The joint Chinese and Russian naval patrol near Alaska underscores the geopolitical complexities in the region. The US response demonstrated its commitment to safeguarding national interests and territorial integrity, sending a strong message of deterrence to potential adversaries.
Conclusion: The recent naval patrol near Alaska serves as a stark reminder of the evolving security landscape and the need for continued vigilance. It highlights the significance of maintaining a strong navy to protect vital national interests and ensure stability in the region. The US must remain resolute in upholding its commitment to defend its territorial sovereignty while navigating complex international relations.
This satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC appears to show the damaged Russian landing vessel Olenegorsky Gornyak leaking oil while docked at Novorossiysk, Russia, Friday, Aug. 4, 2023. (Planet Labs PBC via AP) (Planet Labs PBC/AP)
Introduction:
On August 4, 2023, a Ukrainian naval drone attacked a Russian Black Sea navy base at Novorossiysk, causing serious damage to a Russian warship. This marked the first time the Ukrainian navy projected its power so far from its shores.
Key Takeaway (credit to Reuters):
A Russian warship was seriously damaged in the attack, carried out by two Ukrainian sea drones.
The Olenegorsky Gornyak, a Russian Navy landing ship with around 100 Russian servicemen on board, was hit by a sea drone carrying 450 kilograms of TNT.
Summary
Russia accuses Ukraine of naval drone attack on port
Russian warship seriously damaged, civilian ship movement temporarily halted
Ukrainian attack repelled, drones destroyed, but Russian warship incapacitatedThe attack shows a significant increase in Ukrainian naval range
Tensions escalate in the Black Sea with repeated attacks on port facilities and grain silos
Analysis:
The attack highlights the growing capabilities of the Ukrainian navy and the escalating tensions in the Black Sea region. It signals a potential shift in the balance of power and the need for stronger naval capabilities.
Conclusion:
The Ukrainian naval drone attack on the Russian warship at Novorossiysk demonstrates the need for a stronger navy to defend against emerging threats in the region.
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For more information on the importance of a stronger navy to safeguard national security and address emerging challenges, visit StrongerNavy.org.
Cambodian Ream Naval Base in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Photo by screenshot Youtube
The recent revelation that China has made significant progress building a naval base in Cambodia has raised alarm bells in Washington and the region.
According to satellite imagery, China is close to completing a pier that could berth an aircraft carrier at Ream Naval Base, near Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand. This Chinese-funded project would extend Beijing’s military reach into the contested waters of Southeast Asia, where it faces rival claims from several countries, including US allies.
China and Cambodia have denied that the People’s Liberation Army will have access to the base, claiming that the construction is for Cambodia’s navy and that the two countries have no secret agreement. However, US officials and analysts have voiced suspicions that the base is part of China’s broader strategy to expand its influence and challenge US presence and interests in the region.
China has over the past decade built a number of military bases on reefs and reclaimed land in the South China Sea, where it claims almost the entire waterway as its sovereign territory.
The US has conducted freedom of navigation operations and military exercises to challenge China’s claims and assert its support for its regional partners.
A naval base in Cambodia would give China another strategic advantage, as it would provide access to the Gulf of Thailand and the Malacca Strait, a vital choke point for global trade and energy flows.
A Chinese military presence at Ream Naval Base would also have implications for the balance of power across Southeast Asia, where many countries are wary of China’s growing assertiveness and seek to maintain good relations with both Beijing and Washington. Cambodia, once a close ally of the US during the Cold War, has tilted towards China in recent years, receiving billions of dollars in aid, investment and loans from Beijing.
The US has criticized Cambodia for its democratic backsliding, human rights violations and crackdown on dissent under Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has ruled the country since 1985. The US has urged Cambodia to be transparent about its intentions and activities at Ream Naval Base, and to respect its constitutional prohibition on foreign military bases on its soil.
The US has also sought to deepen its security ties with other countries in the region, such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, to counter China’s influence and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.
In August 2022, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Phnom Penh and raised the issue of the naval base with Cambodian officials, saying that it would pose a threat to Southeast Asia if used exclusively for China’s military.
The development of Ream Naval Base is a clear sign of China’s ambition to become a global naval power and a challenge to US interests and values in the region.
The US should continue to monitor the situation closely and engage with Cambodia and other regional partners to uphold a rules-based order and prevent any escalation or conflict in the waters of Southeast Asia.
Sources: • Chinese base in Cambodia nears completion in challenge to US naval power (Financial Times) • Cambodian Ream Naval Base Modernized by China Nears Completion: Defense Ministry (VOA News) • Is China building a military base in Cambodia? (Chatham House) • China’s Base in Cambodia Nearing Completion, Challenging US Naval Power (Military View)
Hello, members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy.
We are excited to share with you a thrilling story of air operations at night on an aircraft carrier. This is not a fiction, but a reality that our brave and skilled naval aviators face every day.
Imagine landing a plane on a moving ship in the dark, with no lights, no runway, and no margin for error. Imagine doing it while the ship is pitching and rolling in rough seas, and the wind is blowing from all directions.
Imagine doing it with a plane that weighs over 30 tons, carries tons of fuel and weapons, and travels hundreds of miles per hour.
Imagine doing it with only a few seconds to react, and no second chances.
This is what our naval aviators do every night on an aircraft carrier. It is one of the most challenging and dangerous feats in aviation, requiring precision, courage, and razor-sharp instincts.
It is also one of the most vital capabilities of our Navy, enabling us to project power and protect our interests around the world.
In this story, we will take you behind the scenes of night carrier operations, and show you how our Navy pilots train, prepare, and execute these missions.
We will also show you how the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, the newest and most advanced carrier in the world, supports these operations with its cutting-edge technology and systems.
The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford conducts flight operations in the Adriatic Sea, July 25, 2023.
The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.
We will tell you what it takes to launch and recover these planes in the dark, what are the risks and rewards of doing so, and what are the secrets of success for these elite pilots.
We will also share with you some facts and statistics about night carrier landings that will amaze you:
According to a YouTube video by NAVY Productions , night carrier landings are graded on a scale of 0 to 5 by the Landing Signal Officer (LSO), who guides the pilots with visual signals and radio calls. A perfect landing is a 5, a safe but average landing is a 3, and a bolter (a missed arrestment) is a 2.5.
According to Wikipedia , bolters occur when the plane’s tailhook fails to catch any of the four arresting wires on the carrier deck, forcing the pilot to abort the landing and go around for another attempt. Bolters can happen due to pilot error, equipment failure, or adverse weather conditions.
According to an article by Carey Lohrenz , a former Navy fighter pilot and author of Fearless Leadership: High-Performance Lessons from the Flight Deck , night carrier landings are so stressful that they can cause physiological effects such as increased heart rate, blood pressure, adrenaline, cortisol, and pupil dilation.
According to an article by Proceedings Magazine , published by the U.S. Naval Institute , night carrier landing accident rates have historically been about three times higher than day rates, due to reduced visibility, depth perception, and situational awareness.
We hope you enjoy this story as much as we enjoyed writing it for you. We hope it will inspire you to appreciate the incredible work that our Navy does every day, and to support our cause of making our Navy stronger and more capable. Thank you for your attention and loyalty. Americans for a Stronger Navy.
101123-N-5292M-186 NORFOLK The newly commissioned guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) arrives in its new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk Nov. 23, 2010. The ship is named for Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham, who selflessly sacrificed his life at eh age of 22 in Iraq, April 14, 2004. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie R. Matyascik) (Released).
Dear members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,
We are excited to share with you an event that highlights not just the steadfast progress of our naval forces, but also the values and heroism that permeate the proud history of our organization and our country.
On July 29th, the U.S. Navy is set to christen the future USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), a state-of-the-art guided-missile destroyer, at the General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. This momentous event embodies the continued evolution and modernization of our naval capabilities, ensuring our country remains secure and well-protected against potential threats.
In the context of our mission at Americans for a Stronger Navy, events like this further amplify the significance of our work. Our commitment to ensuring a robust, well-equipped Navy is vindicated as we see the christening of such advanced warships. We believe that a stronger navy is vital for maintaining America’s position in the global arena, defending our interests, and securing our nation’s prosperity.
Why does this matter to America and the American people, you may ask? In a world increasingly defined by geopolitical tensions and unpredictable threats, a strong navy serves as a bulwark against such challenges. With the commissioning of USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), we honor not just a war hero, but also the values of bravery, leadership, and sacrifice that he symbolized. These are values that unite us as Americans and remind us of the cost of our security and freedom.
The USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. is more than a guided-missile destroyer – it represents the backbone of our surface fleet, prepared to ensure American safety at all times. It embodies our dedication to the defense of our country and our determination to promote peace.
This event serves as a proud reminder of our mission, and we invite you to join us in celebrating this historic occasion. Together, let’s continue working to strengthen our Navy, uphold our shared values, and safeguard the American dream for future generations.
PSecretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III greets Papua New Guinean Minister for Defense Win Daki in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, July 27, 2023.
a also faces many challenges, such as poverty, corruption, health crises, environmental degradation, and illegal fishing. Moreover, it is located in a region where China is expanding its influence and presence, posing threats to the sovereignty and security of our allies and partners.
That is why the United States has been working closely with Papua New Guinea to support its development and defense needs. The United States has already provided personal protective equipment to the country to help it combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Landmark Defense Cooperation Agreement
The meeting between Secretary Austin and Papua New Guinea’s defense leaders resulted in two major outcomes that will benefit both countries and our navy.
First, the two countries concluded a shiprider agreement in May. This agreement will allow Papua New Guinea’s forces to ride along with U.S. Coast Guard vessels patrolling the area. This collaboration will help the country enforce its sovereignty and combat illegal fishing activities, ensuring the protection of its marine resources.
Second, the two countries negotiated and signed a landmark Defense Cooperation Agreement that will deepen U.S.-PNG ties. The Defense Cooperation Agreement is currently awaiting approval from Papua New Guinea’s parliament.
This agreement seeks to deepen the defense ties between the two nations and enable the United States to support the modernization of Papua New Guinea’s defense force. It will foster closer collaboration on exercises, training, interoperability, and defense-capacity building.
Furthermore, the agreement presents opportunities for joint infrastructure investment and expanded U.S. defense presence in Papua New Guinea, beyond small-scale projects. By working together, the two countries aim to promote a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, where international law is upheld, and disputes are resolved peacefully and without coercion.
A Step Towards a Stronger Navy
We applaud Secretary Austin for his leadership and vision in forging this historic partnership with Papua New Guinea. We believe that this partnership will enhance our security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, which is vital for our national interests and global stability.
We also believe that this partnership will strengthen our navy by providing more opportunities for training, interoperability, and presence in a strategic area. A stronger navy means a stronger America.
We hope that you share our enthusiasm and support for this historic meeting and its outcomes. We encourage you to learn more about this meeting by reading this article from the Department of Defense.
We also invite you to join us in our efforts to advocate for a stronger navy by becoming a member or making a donation to our organization. You can visit our website at www.americansforastrongernavy.org to find out more about our work and how you can get involved.
Thank you for your attention and support. Sincerely, The Americans for a Stronger Navy Team
