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Arming for Peace: Why America Must Act Now to Strengthen the Navy and Defend Freedom

A Review of Heritage Foundation Report BG3902 by Americans for a Stronger Navy

Introduction

The Heritage Foundation’s latest report, “Arming for Peace: Expanding the Defense Industrial Base and Arming Taiwan Faster” (BG3902), echoes what Americans for a Stronger Navy has been sounding the alarm on: The threats facing the United States are real, escalating, and dangerously close to overwhelming our current naval capabilities. As Brent Sadler writes, the time for talk has passed. Action is overdue. If we don’t mobilize now, America risks losing the ability to deter war and defend freedom in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

As Sadler states: “As Americans go about their daily lives unmolested, the world is accelerating in its change—much of it perilous to U.S. national survival.” He warns that “on the back of a decades-long sustained military build-up, China’s military is increasingly confident and willing to directly challenge the U.S.”

His call to action is clear: “The U.S. must restore ebbing national deterrence and prevent a war in Asia—while not ceding its democratic way of life and prosperity for the next generations.”

Key Findings That Should Wake America Up

China is preparing for war. Admiral Davidson’s 2021 warning that China could strike Taiwan by 2027 has not only proven prescient, it’s now backed by an unprecedented military buildup. China has conducted massive joint-force invasion rehearsals and increased provocations around Taiwan. As Brent Sadler put it, “Aggressive maneuvers around Taiwan right now are not exercises, as they call them. They are rehearsals.”

That warning was underscored this week when the Chinese military launched large-scale joint drills around Taiwan, including its Shandong aircraft carrier battle group. According to China’s own Eastern Theater Command, these drills are a “severe warning and forceful containment against Taiwan independence.” With missile forces, air strikes, and blockade rehearsals now unfolding, many in Taiwan — and around the world — are rightfully concerned. Sadler’s insights about China’s evolving risk tolerance add important context to these real-time developments.

Further validating the urgency, the U.S. Naval War College’s China Maritime Report No. 14 found that Chinese analysts themselves believe the PLA has narrowed the gap with the U.S. military, especially in its immediate region. “There is consensus in China that the PLA has narrowed the gap in overall military capabilities with the United States over the last two decades,” the report notes.

Russia and China are approaching U.S. shores. Testimony from U.S. Northern Command chief Gen. Gregory Guillot before Congress confirmed that joint Russian-Chinese military patrols have entered the U.S. Air Defense Identification Zone near Alaska — levels not seen since before the Ukraine war began. One coordinated flight last July saw Russian TU-95 and Chinese H-6 bombers test U.S. response time. This should serve as a wake-up call: our adversaries are not just projecting power near Taiwan, they’re probing U.S. airspace and waters closer to home. As Politico reported, Chinese “dual-use” vessels under scientific pretenses are mapping the Arctic for future military operations.

U.S. deterrence is fading. Years of underinvestment in shipbuilding and naval readiness have created dangerous gaps. Delays in weapons deliveries, inadequate port infrastructure, and a depleted missile defense stockpile are symptoms of a nation unprepared for a prolonged maritime conflict. As Sadler warns, “Failing to act… could result in the most destructive and consequential war the U.S. has ever had to fight.”

The Navy is stretched thin. The U.S. Navy has sustained an aggressive forward presence, but at great cost. Ship wear, sailor fatigue, and insufficient repair capacity are taking their toll. The grounding of the USNS Big Horn disrupted combat ops in the Red Sea, highlighting our logistical fragility. Sadler notes, “This comes at a cost in added wear on the ships and sailors reliant on a logistics infrastructure of ports, support ships, and dry docks too few to assure contested forward naval operations.”

The world is on fire. From Ukraine to the Red Sea to the Arctic, our adversaries are watching and testing U.S. resolve. China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea now operate more boldly, confident in America’s disunity and domestic distraction.

Taiwan is not a distant concern. More than 80,000 Americans live, work, or travel there. A war over Taiwan would drag us into conflict, devastate global supply chains, and send shockwaves through the U.S. economy. As Sadler puts it plainly, “Taiwan is where over 80,000 Americans live, work, or travel on any given day.”

China’s geographic advantage cannot be ignored. According to the CMSI report, Chinese military capabilities are particularly potent within the First Island Chain, which includes Taiwan. “Chinese capabilities may…contest U.S. supremacy in scenarios close to home,” the report warns. That’s where deterrence matters most—and where readiness is most urgently needed.

Why Americans Should Care

This is not just a Navy problem. It’s an American problem. Delays in defense production, weak infrastructure, and an uninformed public are national vulnerabilities. If Americans fail to understand what is at stake, we will fail to hold our leaders accountable. And if we fail to act, we will be forced to react under far worse circumstances.

A strong Navy protects freedom of navigation, global trade, energy security, and the American way of life. Without it, our adversaries will decide what happens in the Taiwan Strait, the Red Sea, the South China Sea — and now, even the Arctic.

What the Navy Needs Now

A modern Naval Act. We need a 21st-century version of the pre-WWII Naval Act to rapidly rebuild shipyards, expand production, and modernize our fleet. Sadler calls this “a promising first step to regain the ability to sustain a wartime economy in a prolonged war with China.”

Real investment in maritime infrastructure. Ports, dry docks, and logistics support are vital national security assets that must be revitalized now.

Faster arms deliveries to Taiwan. The delays in Harpoon, Javelin, and Stinger deliveries must be resolved. Taiwan’s ability to defend itself is our first line of deterrence. Sadler emphasizes that “how the new Administration responds and accelerates the arming of Taiwan will be key in sustaining the military balance and peace in the near term.”

A unified national strategy. We must operate differently — with diplomatic, economic, and military efforts aligned. Naval statecraft must be at the heart of this new Cold War strategy. Sadler emphasizes, “Naval statecraft is the recommended way forward; that is, a maritime strategic framework for using American power.”

The CMSI report reminds us that training, human capital, and logistics remain U.S. advantages. While China may be catching up in hardware, “Chinese training still lags. The gap in the software [human resources and development] is even bigger,” the report notes. But these gaps can close — unless we act now to protect and reinforce our edge.

An Engaged and Educated Public

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe in peace through strength. But strength requires public awareness, buy-in, and civic action. That’s why we launched the Americans for a Stronger Navy Educational Series — to help Americans understand the stakes, the history, and the path forward.

We invite every reader to check out and sign up for the Educational Series on StrongerNavy.org. Learn what makes our Navy vital to our security and prosperity. Share it with others. Talk about it. Get involved.

Conclusion

We are not powerless. But we must not be silent. The Heritage Foundation, the U.S. Naval War College, and recent military testimony to Congress all point to the same reality: America is in the early stages of a long contest with near-peer adversaries, and we must prepare now.

It’s time for Americans to wake up, stand up, and demand a Navy that is ready not just for today’s threats, but tomorrow’s challenges.

America needs a stronger Navy. And the Navy needs a stronger America behind it.

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Rising Threats and Naval Implications – Why Americans Should Care

Introduction

The 2025 Annual Threat Assessment (ATA) from the U.S. Intelligence Community delivers a direct message to America: our adversaries are preparing, adapting, and collaborating in ways that threaten our security and way of life. For the U.S. Navy, this report underscores the urgent need to evolve—faster, smarter, and with the full backing of the American public. As a former destroyer sailor and founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I’ve never seen a clearer call to action.

Understanding the Threat Environment

The ATA outlines a world where state adversaries are growing more aggressive, not just militarily, but across cyberspace, space, and information warfare. These threats are not abstract—they are aimed at U.S. systems, infrastructure, supply chains, and naval dominance.

Key Takeaways

China
China is modernizing the world’s largest navy, expanding its presence in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, and using cyber capabilities like Volt Typhoon and Salt Typhoon to pre-position attacks on U.S. infrastructure. Its military posture is aimed at deterring U.S. intervention and achieving dominance by 2049.

Russia
Despite its losses in Ukraine, Russia remains dangerous, with a formidable submarine fleet, long-range missile systems, and anti-satellite weapons. Its activity in the Arctic and collaboration with China create new strategic complications for the Navy.

Iran
Iran is deploying proxy forces such as the Houthis to strike commercial shipping and challenge U.S. regional interests. Its growing cyber and missile arsenal pose immediate operational risks, particularly in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf.

North Korea
North Korea continues to expand its nuclear and missile programs while deepening ties with Russia. It remains an unpredictable and volatile threat with expanding long-range strike capability.

Adversarial Cooperation
China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are now actively collaborating. The coordination of military, cyber, and intelligence resources among these nations raises the stakes for U.S. naval strategy and global readiness.

Why Americans Should Care

Our economy depends on maritime security.
Ninety percent of global trade—including food, medicine, and fuel—moves by sea. Disruption of those supply lines affects every American household.

A strong Navy deters war.
The Navy maintains peace through presence. Without adequate ships, infrastructure, and support, our deterrence fails—and the risk of conflict rises.

Cyber and space threats can paralyze daily life.
Adversaries are preparing to disable communications, GPS, power, and defense networks. Many of these systems are protected or enabled by the U.S. Navy.

Our enemies are coordinating.
No longer isolated, these states are combining their strengths to challenge U.S. global presence—and potentially to stretch our forces thin across multiple theaters.

National support is a strategic weapon.
A Navy without public backing is vulnerable. Understanding the threat landscape empowers voters, lawmakers, and communities to support smart, decisive investments in naval readiness.

Implications for the Navy

Fleet Modernization
The Navy must deploy hypersonic weapons, uncrewed platforms, AI-driven systems, and advanced missile defenses to compete in contested domains.

Forward Logistics and Pre-Positioned Assets
The Navy must expand its footprint in the Indo-Pacific, Arctic, and Middle East by investing in mobile logistics, fuel depots, and strategic alliances.

Cyber and Infrastructure Hardening
Cyber hardening is now a frontline requirement. Naval systems and civilian infrastructure that support operations—like ports and shipyards—must be resilient.

Space and Arctic Readiness
With increasing threats to space assets and the Arctic opening as a strategic corridor, the Navy must build capabilities for multi-domain and under-ice operations.

Industrial Base and Workforce Development
America must revitalize its shipbuilding industry and train the next generation of naval engineers and builders. We cannot deter tomorrow’s threats with yesterday’s tools.

Closing Thought

The ATA is not just an intelligence document. It’s a warning flare. Americans for a Stronger Navy exists to ensure the public understands these threats and responds with urgency. The Navy can’t do it alone. It needs your voice.

To Learn More

If you found this post informative, we invite you to explore and sign up for the Americans for a Stronger Navy Educational Series. This free, ongoing program dives deeper into the threats, challenges, and opportunities facing the U.S. Navy today—and why it matters to every American. Click here to subscribe to the conversation and become part of the solution.

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DOGE in the Navy Yard: Threat or Opportunity?

By Bill Cullifer, Founder and Advocate-in-Chief, Americans for a Stronger Navy

Editor’s Note:
This article is offered as a thought-provoking contribution to the national conversation on military reform and accountability. It is not intended to endorse or oppose any political figure or party. Instead, it invites discussion about how innovation, transparency, and forward-thinking leadership can help strengthen the U.S. Navy for the challenges ahead.

Introduction

While watching Bret Baier’s recent FOX special on the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), I found myself thinking: what if this wave of government reviews hits the U.S. Navy? Could it be a disaster—or could it actually make the Navy stronger?

Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

As someone who served in the Navy and now leads Americans for a Stronger Navy, I know how complex and mission-critical our maritime forces are. You can’t simply apply a Silicon Valley mindset to a warship or a global logistics chain. And yet, listening to the cabinet members speak about their departments being put under the microscope, it struck me: those who embrace scrutiny might come out leaner, smarter, and more ready for the future.

The Risk

DOGE could become a blunt instrument. If reformers misunderstand the Navy’s mission, they might cut where they shouldn’t. They might sideline the experience of sailors and shipbuilders, and leave readiness vulnerable in the name of short-term savings.

The Opportunity

But if the Navy leads from the front—inviting review, owning its challenges, and showcasing innovation—it could become a national model. Not just for efficiency, but for integrity and transformation. It could even spark a new wave of public trust.

A Pattern of Problems We Can’t Ignore

This isn’t just theory—it’s backed by years of Government Accountability Office (GAO) reporting. In its March 2025 report, the GAO stated bluntly that despite nearly doubling the Navy’s shipbuilding budget over the past 20 years, the fleet has not grown.

Programs like the Zumwalt-class destroyers, Littoral Combat Ships, and Constellation-class frigates have been riddled with incomplete designs, delays, weak business cases, and massive cost overruns. The Constellation-class, for example, began construction before its design was finalized—despite being based on a proven European frigate.

Since 2015, the GAO has made 90 recommendations to improve Navy shipbuilding. Only 30 have been addressed. That’s not just bureaucratic foot-dragging—it’s a pattern that puts our national security and naval strength at risk.

A Broader Mandate for Reform

This isn’t happening in a vacuum. On March 29, 2025, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a memo launching the Workforce Acceleration and Recapitalization Initiative, ordering a top-down realignment of the Department of Defense’s civilian workforce.

The initiative seeks to reduce duplication, cut excessive bureaucracy, and redirect resources to the front lines. It reopens the Deferred Resignation Program, encourages early retirement, and requires senior leaders to propose leaner organizational charts—aiming to build a force that is “lean, mean, and prepared to win.”

Whether you agree with the approach or not, reform is no longer optional. The question is whether the Navy will lead the charge—or be dragged into it.

Civic Engagement

Americans for a Stronger Navy exists to engage the public, ask hard questions, and help translate naval strength into civic understanding. We believe a strong Navy and a responsible government go hand in hand. If DOGE enters the shipyard gates, we’ll be watching—not to tear down, but to help build back smarter.

Let’s make sure this moment strengthens the fleet, not weakens it.

Call to Action

We invite you to be part of the conversation. Share your thoughts, experiences, or concerns by visiting StrongerNavy.org on twitter.

Also,  check out our new educational series:
“China, Russia, and America: Navigating Global Rivalries and Naval Challenges”—a 23-episode initiative that explores the past, present, and future of naval power and why it matters to every American.

Let’s make sure the American people don’t just support the Navy—they understand why it matters.

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Honoring Vietnam Veterans: Especially Those Who Served in the U.S. Navy

A Tribute to the Blue Water, Brown Water Navy – and Our POWs | March 29

As we mark this solemn and significant moment of remembrance, Americans for a Stronger Navy extends heartfelt gratitude to all who served during the Vietnam War—especially those in the U.S. Navy. Whether you were steaming offshore on a destroyer, carrier, or support ship, or navigating the dangerous inland waterways of the Mekong Delta, your courage and commitment mattered. You stood watch in some of the most complex and grueling conditions in modern warfare.

The Navy’s Role in Vietnam

The Navy’s role in Vietnam was extensive and essential. From launching air strikes from carriers during Rolling Thunder and Linebacker, to conducting coastal bombardments and halting enemy supply lines through Operation Market Time, the Navy was always on the front line. In the rivers and canals of the Delta, sailors in Task Forces 115, 116, and 117 faced ambushes and booby traps daily as they fought to secure the waterways in what became known as the “Brown Water Navy.”

Among those who served with distinction was the USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7). During the first three months of 1967, she cruised the South China Sea and Gulf of Tonkin, performing search and rescue missions and pounding enemy coastal positions in support of ground operations. Throughout the war, Henry B. Wilson served as plane guard for carriers on Yankee Station, participated in Sea Dragon operations, and provided naval gunfire support.

In April 1975, she took part in Operation Eagle Pull, assisting in the evacuation of Phnom Penh during its fall to the Khmer Rouge. Just weeks later, she was on the front lines again for Operation Frequent Wind, helping evacuate South Vietnam during its final collapse. Her role included drawing enemy fire away from the ships loading evacuees—demonstrating extraordinary bravery. In May 1975, she was also one of the lead ships in the dramatic rescue operation of the hijacked SS Mayaguez in Cambodian waters.

Why America Should Care

Today, many Americans may not know that 1.8 million Sailors served in Southeast Asia during the war. They may not realize that 95% of supplies reached Vietnam by sea, or that Navy Seabees built the logistical lifelines that made the war effort possible. And perhaps most importantly, many don’t know that over 1,600 Navy personnel lost their lives, thousands more were wounded—and some were taken as prisoners of war.

We especially honor those who endured captivity, often under brutal conditions, refusing to break and continuing to serve their country with dignity and resolve. Their courage is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the values we hold dear.

We care because these men and women served their country without question—even when the country questioned the war. They are part of the fabric of American history and the foundation of our maritime security.

A Personal Note of Gratitude

As a former sailor on the USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7), I want to give a special shout-out to my shipmates that served during Vietnam and beyond. Our service mattered, and it still does.

I also want to honor my older brother, Chuck. He volunteered in 1968 as a U.S. Army photographer. Wounded in combat and granted a pass to come home, he made the extraordinary choice to go back—to help his buddies. Many of them never made it back. Chuck did, but not before being called a “baby killer” by his own countrymen—while still in bandages from his first Purple Heart. Still, he went back and served his country the best he could. RIP, brother. That’s the kind of quiet heroism that deserves recognition.

Never Forgotten

On behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we say thank you. To the Blue Water sailors who braved open seas, the Brown Water warriors who navigated narrow rivers under fire, the POWs who endured unthinkable hardship, and the crew of the USS Henry B. Wilson—you made history. And to those like many of my shipmates and my brother Chuck, who showed what real duty looks like, your service continues to inspire.

Let’s remember them not just on designated days, but every day.

Learn more, get involved, and stand with us at StrongerNavy.org.

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Aegis Combat System Proves It Can Counter Hypersonic Threats

Introduction.

On March 24, 2025, the USS Pinckney (DDG 91) made history. Off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii, the Navy successfully completed Flight Test Other-40 (FTX-40)—also known as Stellar Banshee—using the Aegis Combat System to detect and simulate engagement with a hypersonic missile threat. This test is a major milestone in the United States’ ability to defend against rapidly emerging threats from near-peer adversaries like China and Russia, both of whom are investing heavily in hypersonic technology.

Test Details: Simulating the Future of Warfare

A Medium Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) equipped with a Hypersonic Target Vehicle (HTV-1) was air-launched from a C-17 aircraft. The USS Pinckney used a simulated SM-6 Block IAU interceptor and Lockheed Martin’s latest Aegis Baseline 9 software to detect, track, and engage the target. While no live intercept occurred, the simulated engagement offered critical insights and data collection, validating the system’s ability to counter maneuvering hypersonic threats.

This test also previewed the system’s scalability. Aegis can be deployed at sea or on land—key flexibility in a complex global security environment. The test utilized a virtualized Aegis software configuration, a leap forward in adapting the system for next-generation warfare.

Building on Momentum: Past Successes and What’s Next

FTX-40 follows the success of FTM-32, known as Stellar Sisyphus, in which the USS Preble (DDG 88) intercepted a MRBM with an upgraded SM-6 Dual II missile in a live-fire test. These continued advancements will pave the way for FTM-43, which will aim to perform a live intercept against an HTV-1 target.

The collaboration between the U.S. Navy, the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), Lockheed Martin, and other defense partners signals a renewed commitment to innovation and integrated missile defense.

Why Americans Should Care

Hypersonic missiles travel at speeds greater than Mach 5, can maneuver mid-flight, and are extremely hard to detect and counter with traditional systems. Adversaries like China and Russia are rapidly developing and testing these weapons. If successful, these weapons could bypass our current defenses and strike critical infrastructure, fleets, or even the homeland.

This test shows that the United States is not standing still. Our Navy is preparing for tomorrow’s battles—today. The Aegis Combat System’s evolving capabilities directly protect American service members at sea, allies abroad, and Americans at home. It’s another reason why investment in a stronger Navy isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Implications for the Navy

This test reinforces the Aegis system as the backbone of the Navy’s integrated air and missile defense strategy. With its growing flexibility, the system can support both forward-deployed naval units and U.S.-based missile defense installations. It also helps the Navy operate in contested environments—areas where hypersonic threats are expected to become commonplace.

Implications for Our Allies

Many of our closest allies—Japan, South Korea, Australia—also rely on Aegis-equipped ships or similar missile defense systems. Demonstrating this capability strengthens not only U.S. deterrence but also our credibility with partners. In a world where multilateral defense cooperation is key, proof of performance matters.

Closing Thought

FTX-40 didn’t just simulate a hypersonic intercept—it sent a clear message: The United States Navy is adapting and preparing to meet new challenges head-on. For Americans watching the headlines, this is a win worth knowing—and a mission worth supporting.

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U.S. Navy Enters Sustained Combat Operations Against Houthi Forces

Air Wing (CVW) 1, a part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTSCG), conducts flight operations from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) 

A New Phase in the Red Sea Conflict

The U.S. Navy has officially escalated its engagement in the Red Sea, transitioning from defensive posturing to sustained combat operations against Iran-backed Houthi forces. This shift follows President Donald Trump’s pledge to employ “overwhelming lethal force” in response to persistent Houthi attacks on commercial and military vessels.

The Mission: Neutralizing Houthi Anti-Ship Capabilities

In a press statement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the campaign aims to dismantle the Houthis’ ability to target international shipping and U.S. assets. Unlike previous limited retaliatory strikes, this new phase includes proactive, sustained efforts to eliminate threats, including:

  • Command and control centers
  • Missile launch sites (Transporter Erector Launchers)
  • One-way attack drones (OWA-UAS)
  • Weapons storage facilities

Additionally, sources indicate that Iranian assets—such as the intelligence-gathering vessel MV Behshad, which has reportedly provided targeting data to Houthi forces—may also be targeted.

Combat Operations Underway

In the past 24 hours, U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets launched from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) have carried out dozens of strikes across Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen. These operations were supported by Tomahawk cruise missile strikes from Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers in the region.

President Trump’s Warning to Iran

In a post on Truth Social, President Trump issued a direct warning to Iran, stating that any Houthi attack would be treated as an Iranian attack:

“Every shot fired by the Houthis will be looked upon, from this point forward, as being a shot fired from the weapons and leadership of IRAN, and IRAN will be held responsible… and those consequences will be dire!”

The statement underscores growing concerns that the conflict could escalate into a broader regional war.

Houthi Retaliation and U.S. Response

Despite these warnings, Houthi forces launched 10 attack drones at the USS Truman less than a day after the U.S. strikes. All drones were intercepted before reaching the carrier.

According to CENTCOM, since 2023, Houthi forces have attempted:

  • 174 attacks on U.S. Navy ships
  • 145 attacks on commercial vessels

While no U.S. Navy ship has been successfully struck, commercial shipping has suffered multiple hits, including the sinking of the bulk carrier MV Tutor last year.

Preparing for a Prolonged Conflict

The U.S. Navy has been preparing for this scenario for months, including:

  • Prepositioning missiles and munitions
  • Deploying airborne minesweepers
  • Coordinating additional forces

As tensions escalate, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) Carrier Strike Group is completing COMPUTEX training and may be deployed to reinforce U.S. forces in the region.

Why Americans Should Care

  • Strategic Waterways Under Threat: The Bab al-Mandab Strait and Red Sea are critical for global trade. Disruptions could impact oil prices and supply chains.
  • Broader Implications for U.S. National Security: Iran’s role in these attacks highlights the risk of expanded conflict in the Middle East.
  • Protecting U.S. and Allied Assets: The safety of commercial shipping, as well as military and civilian personnel in the region, remains a top priority.

Implications for the U.S. Navy

  • Sustained combat operations will test the Navy’s ability to conduct extended engagements while maintaining readiness elsewhere.
  • Increased missile defense efforts will be critical to counter future threats.
  • Potential strain on resources could impact deployments in the Pacific and other high-priority regions.

Implications for U.S. Allies

  • Increased pressure on regional partners (Saudi Arabia, UAE) to respond to Iranian-backed aggression.
  • Possible involvement of NATO and European allies in securing international shipping routes.
  • Greater U.S. military presence in the region could shape future diplomatic efforts.

Final Thoughts

With the U.S. Navy now in active combat and President Trump’s warning to Iran, the stakes in the Red Sea have never been higher. Whether this campaign will succeed in neutralizing the Houthi threat or escalate into a larger regional conflict remains to be seen.

One thing is certain—this is a defining moment for U.S. maritime power and its role in global security. Join the discussion on X.

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Quantum Navigation: Lockheed Martin’s QuINS and the Future of U.S. Naval Operations

Introduction

The U.S. military is on the verge of a breakthrough in navigation technology, one that could redefine how forces operate in GPS-denied environments. Lockheed Martin, in collaboration with the Department of Defense’s Innovation Unit (DIU), is developing the Quantum Inertial Navigation System (QuINS)—a system that could eliminate reliance on GPS and provide unparalleled accuracy for military operations.

Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

For centuries, ocean navigation has evolved through a series of technological breakthroughs that have shaped maritime dominance. In ancient times, sailors relied on celestial navigation, using the stars, sun, and moon to determine their position. The invention of the magnetic compass in the 12th century revolutionized seafaring, allowing ships to travel more confidently across open waters. By the 18th century, the development of the marine chronometer enabled precise longitude calculations, reducing the risk of navigational errors. The 20th century brought radio navigation and inertial navigation systems (INS), allowing submarines and warships to navigate underwater without visual cues. The arrival of GPS in the late 20th century ushered in an era of pinpoint accuracy, integrating satellite technology into global commerce and defense. Now, with adversaries actively working to jam or spoof GPS, navigation is once again at a crossroads. The emergence of quantum navigation systems (QuINS) represents the next leap—providing resilient, GPS-independent positioning to ensure the Navy remains effective even in contested environments. This latest advancement is not just a technological shift; it is part of a centuries-long progression in mastering the seas.

Quantum Navigation: Lockheed Martin’s QuINS and the Future of U.S. Naval Operations

For the U.S. Navy, this innovation has the potential to enhance fleet operations, submarine navigation, and autonomous system deployment, ensuring our naval forces remain dominant even when adversaries attempt to disrupt traditional navigation systems.

What is QuINS?

Unlike conventional navigation systems that rely on GPS satellites, QuINS uses quantum sensing technology to determine a platform’s position, velocity, and orientation purely through internal measurements. This represents a paradigm shift in navigation, ensuring that even in GPS-jammed or denied environments, ships, submarines, and aircraft can accurately determine their location.

Quantum sensors operate by leveraging the fundamental properties of atoms to detect motion with extreme precision. By measuring changes in an object’s motion through quantum mechanics, these systems can maintain accurate positioning without needing an external reference like a satellite signal.

Dr. Valerie Browning, Vice President of Research & Technology at Lockheed Martin, emphasized that the company’s goal is to take quantum navigation from the laboratory to real-world applications, ensuring that national security needs are met before adversaries gain an upper hand.

Why Americans Should Care

Most Americans take GPS for granted—it’s in our cars, phones, and even financial transactions. But what happens when that system is compromised? Adversaries like China and Russia are developing ways to jam or spoof GPS signals, which could have devastating consequences for both military and civilian infrastructure.

Quantum navigation offers a solution that could protect not just the military, but also essential industries like transportation, logistics, and emergency services. A stronger U.S. Navy with independent navigation capabilities means a more secure supply chain, fewer vulnerabilities in cyber warfare, and a nation less reliant on easily targeted satellites.

Why This Matters to the U.S. Navy

The Navy operates in some of the most complex and contested environments in the world. From the South China Sea to the Arctic, ensuring reliable navigation is crucial. Here’s how QuINS could reshape naval operations.

Resilient Submarine and Fleet Navigation

  • Silent Service Advantage: U.S. Navy submarines operate without GPS while submerged, relying on traditional inertial navigation systems (INS). Quantum INS could significantly improve accuracy over long distances, reducing position drift and enhancing mission effectiveness.
  • Surface Fleet Operations: GPS jamming has become a strategic threat. China and Russia have demonstrated their ability to spoof or jam satellite signals, making reliable navigation alternatives essential for carrier strike groups, destroyers, and logistical vessels.

Empowering Autonomous and Uncrewed Systems

  • The Navy is expanding its fleet of uncrewed surface and underwater vehicles (USVs/UUVs) to operate in contested waters.
  • Without the need for GPS, these assets could navigate undetected, perform reconnaissance missions, and even execute long-range operations with minimal risk of signal interference.
  • Future AI-driven maritime warfare could integrate quantum navigation to create autonomous fleets that operate independently of satellite-based positioning systems.

Strengthening Cyber Resilience and Electronic Warfare

  • Adversaries are developing anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons and cyber tools to disrupt GPS-reliant military forces.
  • With QuINS, U.S. naval forces will have a self-contained, tamper-proof navigation system, significantly reducing vulnerabilities in a cyber-contested environment.

Implications for Our Allies

The U.S. is not the only nation facing threats to navigation systems. Allies operating in the Indo-Pacific, Arctic, and Middle East also rely on GPS for operations. If QuINS proves successful, it could be integrated into joint naval operations, ensuring that allied fleets can maintain cohesive strategies without fearing GPS disruptions.

Partners in AUKUS (Australia, U.K., and U.S.) could benefit significantly from this technology, particularly as Australia seeks to modernize its naval fleet with nuclear-powered submarines under the agreement.

Final Thoughts: A Transformational Shift in Naval Warfare

Quantum navigation has long been viewed as a theoretical future capability, but Lockheed Martin’s QuINS project is bringing that future closer to reality. If successful, this technology will mark a historic leap in military navigation, much like the transition from celestial navigation to GPS decades ago.

For the U.S. Navy, investing in quantum sensing, AI, and autonomous warfare is not just about staying ahead—it’s about ensuring dominance in an era where adversaries are actively working to erode America’s technological and strategic advantages.

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we recognize the importance of peace through strength. Advancements like QuINS ensure that our sailors and warfighters have the best tools available, not just for today’s conflicts, but for the unpredictable battles of tomorrow.

What Do You Think?

Should the Navy move faster in adopting quantum navigation to replace GPS-dependent systems? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the discussion at StrongerNavy.org.

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America’s Navy Needs a Course Correction—The Pentagon’s ‘D’ Grade is a National Security Failure

Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

The latest National Security Innovation Base Summit gave the Pentagon a D grade for modernization. A D—not just in shipbuilding, but across the board in weapons innovation, procurement, and efficiency. This isn’t just a bureaucratic failure; it’s a direct threat to America’s national security.

My friend and shipmate from the ‘70s, Captain David Lennon, USNR (Retired), sent me this Fox News article, saying, “This echoes what you and I have been saying.” He’s right. We’ve been warning for years that America’s defense strategy is moving too slowly to keep up with global threats

The Pentagon’s Outdated Approach to Modern Warfare

According to House Armed Services Committee Vice Chair Rob Wittman, the Pentagon operates like the Ford Motor Company in the 1950s—slow, bureaucratic, and resistant to change.

“The Pentagon is the Ford Motor Company of the 1950s. I mean, the way they operate—slow, stoic. ‘Let’s spend years to write a requirement, then let’s spend years to go to a program or record, let’s spend years to acquire.’ By the time we acquire something, guess what? The threat’s way ahead of us.” – Rep. Wittman

That’s the fundamental problem—our enemies aren’t waiting for us to figure things out. China is churning out warships at breakneck speed, modernizing its naval capabilities, and outpacing us in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, the U.S. is stuck in a procurement cycle that takes decades.

Captain Lennon put it bluntly:

“America once built a navy that could fight and win a world war. Today, we struggle to maintain 295 deployable ships while our adversaries launch vessels at breakneck speed. This is not just a shipbuilding problem—it’s a national security crisis.”

Shipbuilding: A Slow-Motion Disaster

The U.S. Navy currently has 295 deployable ships. The plan calls for 390 by 2054, but at this rate, we won’t even keep up with ship retirements.

The Maritime Security Program, which maintains a fleet of privately owned, military-useful ships, is down to just 60 vessels. If a major conflict broke out in the Pacific tomorrow, we wouldn’t have the sealift capability to respond effectively.

And while China expands its navy at an alarming rate, the U.S. struggles with:

    • Delayed procurement cycles that take years just to approve new ships.

    • Budget cuts and shifting priorities that prevent consistent progress.

    • Shipyard bottlenecks due to a weakened industrial base.

Cyber Warfare: The Unseen Battlefield

Another major concern raised in the Fox News report is China’s superiority in cybersecurity. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) stated:

“China specifically is better at cybersecurity than we are. It only takes one or two incursions that we don’t see coming or that we aren’t responsive to, to make an enormous difference here.”

Captain Lennon underscored this growing threat:

“China and Russia don’t just challenge us at sea—they challenge us in cyberspace, in supply chains, and in economic warfare. The Navy can’t just be stronger; it has to be smarter, faster, and ready for an entirely new battlespace.”

The Pentagon’s inability to keep pace in cybersecurity makes America vulnerable. China is hacking into critical infrastructure, stealing defense blueprints, and gaining access to classified information. The next war may not begin with missiles—it may start with an attack on our power grid, financial systems, or military networks.

A White House Office of Shipbuilding? What Comes Next?

The Fox News report also revealed that President Trump is taking a direct interest in shipbuilding. His nominee for Navy Secretary, John Phelan, stated that Trump regularly texts him late at night, asking about the state of the fleet.

Trump announced the creation of a White House Office of Shipbuilding, promising to revitalize ship production. While this sounds promising, the real test will be whether it cuts through the bureaucracy and actually delivers results.

Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) described how slow innovation is killing our ability to compete:

“We’re operating off of an innovation cycle right now that, you know, used to be a decade, and it used to be five years. Then it used to be three years, and now it’s a year or less innovation cycle. In Ukraine, they’re actually operating off of week-long innovation cycles.”

Where Do We Go From Here?

This isn’t just a military problem—it’s an economic and strategic problem that affects every American. If we fail to modernize, we risk losing control of key shipping lanes, economic stability, and military deterrence.

Captain Lennon and I both agree:

“Our nation faces an inflection point. Will we modernize our Navy to meet the challenges ahead, or will we let slow processes and outdated thinking leave us vulnerable? The choice is ours—but the clock is ticking.”

This is Why I’m Launching Our Educational Series

This conversation is exactly why I’m launching the China, Russia, and America: Navigating Global Rivalries and Naval Challenges series.

This 23-episode educational initiative will break down how history, economics, and military strategy shape today’s global threats—and why America must rally behind its Navy.

    • We’ll dive deeper into shipbuilding, looking at past successes and today’s failures.

    • We’ll unpack cybersecurity threats, explaining why China and Russia view cyber warfare as a battlefield as real as the Pacific or the South China Sea.

    • We’ll break down public policy, exposing how red tape and slow procurement cripple our defense efforts.

This series isn’t just about the Navy—it’s about why the Navy matters to you.

We need Americans engaged in this conversation because without public support, we won’t get the changes we need.

Captain Lennon and I will continue speaking out, but we need more voices in this fight.

Join Us. Stay Informed. Take Action.

Follow along at StrongerNavy.org as we roll out this critical series. It’s time to wake up America—before it’s too late.

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North Korea’s Nuclear-Powered Submarine: A New Threat Below the Surface?

Screen Shot of AP Story Release

Introduction

In a move that could reshape the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific, North Korea has unveiled a nuclear-powered submarine under construction for the first time. The announcement, accompanied by images of Kim Jong Un inspecting the shipyard, raises serious questions about regional security, technological proliferation, and the future of naval warfare.

For years, North Korea’s submarine fleet was seen as aging and limited in capability. This new development, however, suggests a leap forward—one that could allow Pyongyang to launch nuclear missiles from stealthy underwater platforms. If confirmed, this would be a major strategic shift, making it harder for the U.S. and its allies to detect and respond to potential attacks.

So how did a heavily sanctioned nation achieve this milestone? And more importantly—what does it mean for the United States, its allies, and the U.S. Navy?

Key Takeaways

  • North Korea has publicly showcased a nuclear-powered submarine under construction, potentially capable of carrying nuclear-capable missiles.
  • Experts speculate that North Korea may have received Russian technological assistance in exchange for supporting Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.
  • If deployed, this submarine would significantly enhance North Korea’s second-strike capability, making its nuclear deterrence more credible.
  • The development complicates regional security and raises concerns about a growing alliance between North Korea and Russia in military technology sharing.

Why Americans Should Care

For many Americans, North Korea’s military developments may seem like distant problems. But in reality, this new submarine could directly impact U.S. national security.

A nuclear-powered submarine allows North Korea to extend its reach beyond the Korean Peninsula. Unlike land-based missile systems, which can be monitored through satellites and surveillance, a submarine carrying nuclear weapons can disappear into the vast ocean, making it nearly impossible to detect before a potential strike.

If North Korea can launch nuclear missiles from an underwater platform, it could target U.S. allies like South Korea and Japan with little warning—or even reach the U.S. mainland in the future. This dramatically raises the stakes and adds another layer of unpredictability to global security.

Implications for the USA

A Strengthened North Korea-Russia Alliance

Reports suggest that Russia may have provided North Korea with reactor technology for this submarine in exchange for conventional weapons or manpower for its war in Ukraine. If true, this signals a growing military partnership between two U.S. adversaries. A stronger North Korea emboldened by Russian support poses a direct challenge to U.S. leadership in the region.

Increased Risk of Nuclear Conflict

North Korea’s ability to launch nuclear strikes from the sea reduces the effectiveness of traditional missile defense systems. A surprise underwater attack would be harder to intercept, increasing the risk of escalation in the event of a conflict.

Undermining U.S. Deterrence

This development challenges the U.S.’s ability to maintain strategic deterrence. If North Korea gains confidence in its second-strike capability, it may be less willing to negotiate or back down from provocations.

Implications for the U.S. Navy

Greater Demand for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)

Detecting and neutralizing enemy submarines is already one of the most complex challenges in naval warfare. The U.S. Navy will need to enhance its ASW capabilities, including deploying more advanced sonar systems, hunter-killer submarines, and aerial surveillance.

Need for Expanded Naval Presence in the Indo-Pacific

A nuclear-powered submarine gives North Korea the ability to operate farther from its shores. The U.S. Navy may need to increase its presence in the region to counter this new threat, requiring more attack submarines, destroyers, and aircraft carriers to maintain sea control.

More Investments in Unmanned and AI-driven Warfare

The future of undersea warfare is shifting toward AI-driven detection and unmanned systems. This new threat underscores the urgency of investing in advanced drone technology, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and real-time surveillance to track enemy movements.

Conclusion

North Korea’s nuclear-powered submarine is more than just a headline—it’s a wake-up call. It signals a shift in global security, exposing weaknesses in existing defense strategies. The U.S. must recognize this as part of a broader challenge, not only from North Korea but also from the growing military cooperation between adversaries like Russia and China.

America cannot afford to be complacent. A stronger U.S. Navy is essential to maintaining deterrence, securing trade routes, and ensuring that threats like this do not go unchecked. Now, more than ever, investing in naval power is not just a choice—it’s a necessity.