Department of the Navy Fiscal 2025 Budget Proposal
Greetings, members and friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy!
This is the first in a series of deep dives examining the details of the Department of the Navy’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 President’s Budget request. We’re launching a series analyzing the details – from ship construction to sailor well-being. Is the Navy getting enough to fight?
This blueprint outlines the Navy’s funding priorities for the coming year, impacting everything from our national security posture to the lives of our dedicated sailors and Marines.
Key Takeaways:
Modest Increase: The budget request of $257.6 billion represents a small increase (0.7%) from FY24.
Readiness First: The Navy prioritizes maintaining a ready and capable force with investments in ship maintenance, training, and operational deployments.
Modernization Matters: Funding is allocated for next-generation submarines, unmanned vehicles, and advanced aircraft.
Investing in People: The budget includes a pay raise for service members, increased recruitment efforts, and improved quality-of-life initiatives for sailors and Marines.
Partnerships for Power: The Navy emphasizes strengthening strategic relationships with allied nations.
Implications for the Navy:
Maintaining Maritime Dominance: The budget supports the Navy’s role as the primary instrument of sea control, essential for protecting our interests worldwide.
Focus on the Future: Investments in research and development ensure the Navy remains at the forefront of technological innovation.
Efficiency and Optimization: Upgrading shipyards and infrastructure aims to streamline operations and maintenance.
Implications for Navy Personnel:
Pay and Benefits Boost: A 4.5% pay increase and increased recruitment/retention bonuses offer a competitive edge.
Investing in Quality of Life: Improved housing, childcare, and professional development opportunities boost morale and retention.
Focus on Sailor Safety: Increased funding for mental health and suicide prevention programs prioritizes the well-being of our personnel.
Implications for Suppliers:
Potential Growth: Increased shipbuilding and aircraft procurement could translate to more contracts for defense contractors.
Modernization Opportunities: Investments in shipyard infrastructure may open doors for companies specializing in construction and engineering.
Implications for the American Public:
A Strong Navy, a Safe Nation: A well-funded and modernized Navy safeguards American interests and deters potential adversaries.
Investing in Security: The budget reflects a commitment to national security, a critical concern for all Americans.
Supporting Our Heroes: The focus on sailor and Marine well-being aligns with the public’s desire to see our service members thrive.
The Road Ahead
Americans for a Stronger Navy will continue to analyze this budget request in detail. We’ll be looking closely at whether the funding levels are sufficient to maintain a truly powerful Navy in the face of evolving threats. We’ll also be advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of our sailors and Marines, the strength of our shipbuilding industry, and ultimately, the safety and security of the American people.
Stay tuned for further updates and opportunities to get involved!
Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Laboon (DDG 58)
Introduction: Continuation of Excellence
In an era where global maritime security remains a cornerstone of international stability, the valorous acts of the United States Navy serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the unwavering commitment of American sailors.
The guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51)
Among the recent commendable actions is the heroic assistance provided by the crew of the USS Laboon (DDG 58) to distressed mariners in the Gulf of Aden, underlining the ethos of service and sacrifice that . defines the U.S. Navy.
The Gulf of Aden is a deepwater gulf of the Indian Ocean between Yemen to the north, the Arabian Sea to the east, Djibouti to the west, and the Guardafui Channel, Socotra and Somalia to the south. Wikipedia
Key Takeaways
Prompt Response: Upon receiving a distress signal, the Laboon’s crew swiftly deployed a rigid-hull inflatable boat to aid the mariners, showcasing the Navy’s readiness to respond to emergencies.
Successful Rescue: The sailors determined that the mariners’ vessel was disabled and safely brought them aboard the USS Laboon, ensuring no injuries were sustained in the process.
Command Excellence: Cmdr. Eric Blomberg, the commanding officer of the Laboon, praised his crew’s fearless and compassionate execution of the rescue, highlighting the exemplary teamwork and leadership aboard the ship.
Strategic Deployment: The USS Laboon’s presence in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations is pivotal for maintaining maritime security and stability in the Middle East, reflecting the strategic importance of naval deployments in global peacekeeping efforts.
The Distress Call
A Story of Bravery and Compassion
On March 11, the serene waters of the Gulf of Aden were disrupted by an urgent distress call. Three mariners found themselves in dire straits as their vessel ceased to function, leaving them adrift and vulnerable in the vast sea.
The Swift Response
Understanding the gravity of the situation, the USS Laboon, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, immediately sprang into action. The crew prepared a rigid-hull inflatable boat, embarking on a mission fraught with uncertainty but driven by an unwavering resolve to assist those in need.
The Rescue
The seasoned sailors of the Laboon navigated the challenging conditions to reach the stranded mariners. Their expertise allowed them to quickly ascertain the situation and provide the necessary assistance, embodying the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment.
The Safe Harbor
With the mariners safely aboard the Laboon, the crew ensured their well-being, a testament to the compassion and professionalism that define the United States Navy. The mariners were later handed over to a regional coast guard, concluding a successful rescue mission.
Conclusion: A Testament to American Naval Excellence
The actions of the USS Laboon’s crew in the Gulf of Aden are more than a mere rescue; they are a powerful affirmation of the United States Navy’s role as a guardian of the seas and a protector of the vulnerable.
Such acts of bravery and compassion reinforce the image of Americans for a Stronger Navy, not just in terms of firepower but as a force for good in the world.
As we continue to navigate the complex waters of global geopolitics, the valor and virtue of the Navy’s sailors remain our strongest assets in promoting peace, stability, and security across the world’s oceans.
Gladys West and Sam Smith look over data from the Global Positioning System, which West helped develop at the Naval Proving Ground in Dahlgren, Va., March 16, 1985.
Global positioning and Gladys West
In the annals of military and technological advancements, the contributions of certain individuals have paved the way for groundbreaking innovations that not only revolutionize defense strategies but also fundamentally transform our everyday lives.
One such unsung hero is Gladys West, whose mathematical genius and dedication were instrumental in developing the technology that underpins the Global Positioning System (GPS).
This blog post delves into West’s journey from a mathematician to a pivotal figure in modern navigation systems, shedding light on her remarkable contributions and the profound impact they’ve had on both military operations and civilian conveniences.
Why It Matters
Understanding the contributions of individuals like Gladys West matters profoundly, as it highlights the intersection of innovation, and perseverance. Recognizing West’s role not only honors her work but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations, particularly women in STEM fields.
Her story is a testament to the idea that talent and determination know no bounds and that contributions to crucial technological advancements can come from the most unexpected places.
Breaking Barriers in the Navy
Gladys West’s story begins in Sutherland, Virginia, where she was born into a modest family. Despite the challenges of her early life on a family farm, West’s aspirations soared beyond the agricultural horizon. Her academic excellence earned her a scholarship to Virginia State College, where she graduated with a degree in mathematics. In 1956, the Navy recognized her talent and hired her as a mathematician at the Naval Proving Ground in Dahlgren, Virginia. There, her work would lay the groundwork for one of the most crucial technological tools of the modern era
Pioneering Work for GPS
During the 1970s and 1980s, West embarked on a project that would change the world. Using complex algorithms, she accounted for gravitational, tidal, and other forces affecting the Earth’s shape, programming the IBM 7030 computer to refine calculations for an accurate Earth model. This model became the foundation for the GPS orbit, a tool now integral to navigation, whether at sea, in the air, or on the ground.
Personal Insights and Legacy
Despite her monumental contributions to digital navigation, West maintains a fondness for traditional paper maps, a charming reminder of her roots in a pre-digital world. Retiring in 1998 after a distinguished 42-year career, West continued to break barriers, completing a doctorate in public administration. Her legacy is adorned with numerous accolades, including induction into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame and the Prince Philip Medal by the Royal Academy of Engineering, underscoring her indelible impact on science and technology.
Implications For the Navy
West’s contributions have had a lasting impact on naval operations. The precision and reliability of GPS technology have revolutionized navigation, missile guidance, and strategic planning, enhancing the Navy’s capability to execute missions with unprecedented accuracy and efficiency.
For the Public
The ripple effects of West’s work extend far beyond military applications. Today, GPS technology underpins various aspects of civilian life, from navigation apps on smartphones to global logistics, emergency response systems, and even financial transactions, showcasing the pervasive influence of her work.
Conclusion
Gladys West’s journey from a mathematician to a linchpin in the development of GPS technology is a powerful narrative of innovation, perseverance, and the breaking of societal barriers. Her story serves as a crucial reminder of the hidden figures in our history whose contributions have shaped the modern world.
As we navigate our daily lives, often with the help of the technology West helped create, it’s essential to remember and celebrate the diverse minds and hands that have built the foundations of our contemporary conveniences. In doing so, we not only honor their legacy but also inspire future generations to dream big and break barriers, just as Gladys West did.
Today, we introduce the U.S. Navy’s new warfighting doctrine. According to the U.S.Navy, the doctrine not only reinforces the commitment to securing maritime freedom but also strengthens collaborative ties, ensuring the Navy remains a vanguard of global stability and security.
Introduction
The unveiling of the new joint warfighting doctrine signifies an evolution, not a departure, from the traditional “peace through strength” stance. It reaffirms the U.S. Navy’s pivotal role as the global guardian of the seas, adapting to modern challenges while maintaining its foundational principles.
What’s New
This doctrine introduces a multi-domain approach, integrating land, air, sea, space, and cyber capabilities. It emphasizes agility, technological innovation, and a proactive stance in the dynamic security landscape.
Why Americans Should Care
The doctrine, according to the U.S. Navy ensures the U.S. remains at the forefront of global security, safeguarding national interests, and promoting international peace and stability.
Integration Across Domains: It advocates for seamless operations across all military domains, enhancing responsiveness and effectiveness.
Innovative Approaches: The focus is on harnessing cutting-edge technologies and concepts to stay ahead of adversaries.
Adapting to Modern Threats: It addresses the need to continuously evolve in response to emerging security challenges.
Implications for the Navy
The Navy is set to benefit from enhanced strategic direction, capability development, and operational planning, ensuring it remains a formidable force in protecting global maritime interests.
Implications for Our Global Partners
The doctrine fosters stronger alliances and interoperability among international partners, uniting efforts in maintaining a secure global environment.
Conclusion
The new doctrine is a testament to the enduring value of “peace through strength,” with the Navy continuing to serve as a cornerstone of global security and stability. Supporting a strong, adaptable Navy is more crucial than ever in navigating the complexities of contemporary and future threats.
China claims the Scarborough Shoal, although it is inside the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone. An international arbitration tribunal in the Hague said in 2016 that China’s claims had no legal basis – a decision Beijing has rejected according to press reports by Reuters
Introduction
Bill Cullifer, Founder
In light of recent developments in the South China Sea, particularly the installation of a floating barrier at the entrance of Scarborough Shoal, our ongoing coverage seeks to delve deeper into the escalating maritime tensions between the Philippines and China. This strategic waterway, vital for international trade and rich in natural resources, continues to be a flashpoint in regional geopolitics, affecting not just the immediate stakeholders but also global maritime norms and security.
Following Our Coverage
Building on our previous discussions around the strengthening of maritime alliances and the pivotal role of the U.S. Navy in maintaining a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific, today’s focus shifts to a more granular incident that epitomizes the complexities of sovereignty disputes in these waters.
The Scarborough Shoal is one of Asia’s most contested maritime features and a flashpoint for diplomatic flare-ups over sovereignty and fishing rights. Here is what you need to know about the hotly contested area.
The recent satellite imagery revealing a floating barrier, presumably installed by China, at a critical juncture of the Scarborough Shoal, underscores the tactical maneuvers being employed to assert territorial claims.
Why Should Americans Care
The South China Sea is a linchpin in global maritime trade, with a significant portion of the world’s commerce transiting through its waters. Any disruption or militarization in this region poses a direct threat to international shipping routes, potentially escalating into broader conflicts that could involve U.S. interests and allies. Moreover, the principles at stake, including freedom of navigation and adherence to international law, are foundational to the global maritime order that the United States has long championed.
Implications for the U.S. Navy
For the U.S. Navy, these developments represent both a challenge and a call to action. Ensuring freedom of navigation in the South China Sea requires not just a robust naval presence but also a nuanced strategy that balances deterrence with diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions. The situation at Scarborough Shoal, and the broader territorial disputes in the region, test the U.S. Navy’s capability to uphold international norms, support allies, and engage in a strategic competition with China.
This independent story not only continues our coverage of the critical issues at play in the South China Sea but also highlights why these developments matter to Americans and the implications for U.S. naval strategy. By focusing on a specific incident within the larger narrative, we aim to provide our readers with a clearer understanding of the stakes involved and the importance of sustained attention and engagement with maritime security issues.
In a significant move toward bolstering regional security, Australia and the Philippines have recently inked a pivotal agreement aimed at enhancing maritime collaboration. This accord, underscored by a shared commitment to uphold international law, marks a critical juncture in the face of China’s expanding military footprint in the South China Sea. As Americans, it’s essential to understand why this development matters and the consequential role of the U.S. Navy in ensuring a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region.
Why Americans Should Care
The South China Sea is not just a distant waterway; it’s a vital artery for global commerce, with a significant portion of the world’s trade passing through it. The freedom of navigation in this area is paramount, not only for the countries directly bordering it but also for major trading nations like the United States. The recent agreement between Australia and the Philippines signals a growing consensus among like-minded nations to safeguard these crucial sea lanes from unilateral claims and aggressive actions that threaten regional stability and, by extension, global economic security. Please subscribe, support and tell your friends.
Implications for the U.S. Navy
The U.S. Navy stands as a pivotal force in maintaining maritime freedom and deterring aggression in international waters. The strengthening of alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, as exemplified by the Australia-Philippines accord, is a testament to the collective resolve to maintain a free and open region. This collaborative stance not only enhances the operational capabilities of the U.S. Navy through joint patrols and exercises but also amplifies the strategic message to potential adversaries that the international community remains united in its defense of the rules-based order.
For the U.S. Navy, this evolving security landscape underscores the necessity for continued investment in naval capabilities and readiness. It also highlights the importance of diplomatic efforts in forging and reinforcing alliances that extend the Navy’s reach and effectiveness. In an era where strategic competition demands not just military might but also the strength of partnerships, the U.S. Navy’s role in ensuring a stable and secure Indo-Pacific is more crucial than ever.
Join The Club
For those who recognize the importance of a strong and vigilant maritime force, the recent developments in the South China Sea serve as a clarion call. The Americans for a Stronger Navy advocates for the indispensable role of naval power in securing America’s interests and upholding international norms. By joining this community, you align with a group dedicated to ensuring that the U.S. Navy remains capable, adaptable, and ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.
As we navigate through these turbulent waters, the unity and strength of our alliances stand as our best defense against threats to maritime freedom and regional peace. It’s time to rally behind our Navy and support the partnerships that keep our seas open and secure. Join us in this vital mission for a stronger, more resilient maritime future.
This blog post draws inspiration from recent developments in maritime security alliances and the pivotal role of the U.S. Navy in maintaining a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region. It serves as a call to action for Americans to support naval advocacy initiatives and understand the strategic importance of a robust naval presence in global affairs.
Here is an amazing story that you won’t read about everyday. It is a story of US Naval history and heritage, and to honor the legacy of some of the bravest and most heroic sailors who ever served in the U.S. Navy.
The Story of onUSS Jacob Jones
The USS Jacob Jones was a World War I American destroyer that rescued hundreds of survivors from torpedoed ships. In 1917, it was sunk by a German submarine in the English Channel, killing 64 sailors. The ship’s bell, a symbol of the crew’s bravery and sacrifice, was recently recovered from the wreck by British divers. It will be displayed at the National Museum of the U.S. Navy in Washington, D.C.
This is the story of the USS Jacob Jones, the first U.S. Navy destroyer ever sunk by enemy fire, and the recent recovery of its bell from the wreck site.
The USS Jacob Jones and Its History
The USS Jacob Jones was a Tucker-class destroyer commissioned in 1916. It was named after Commodore Jacob Jones, a naval hero of the War of 1812. The ship was designed for high speed and maneuverability, and armed with four 4-inch guns, eight 21-inch torpedo tubes, and two depth charge racks. The ship was assigned to the Atlantic Fleet, and patrolled the U.S. coast and the Caribbean Sea.
After the U.S. entered World War I in April 1917, the USS Jacob Jones was deployed to the U.K. to join the anti-submarine warfare campaign. The ship escorted supply convoys across the Atlantic Ocean, and rescued hundreds of survivors from damaged British ships that had been hit by enemy torpedoes. The ship earned a reputation for its courage and compassion, and was praised by both the U.S. and the British naval authorities.
On December 6, 1917, the USS Jacob Jones was returning from escorting a convoy to France, when it was attacked by a German U-boat, U-53, in the English Channel. The U-boat fired a single torpedo that struck the ship’s stern, causing a massive explosion and a fire.
The ship’s commander, David W. Bagley, ⁹ordered the ship to be abandoned and the life rafts to be launched, as the stern began to sink. The ship went down in eight minutes, with two officers and 62 crew members on board. The U-boat commander, Hans Rose, radioed the coordinates of the survivors to the U.S. base at Queenstown, Ireland, and offered to take some of the wounded on board.
However, the survivors refused his offer, and waited for rescue. The U.S. Navy later awarded Rose a letter of commendation for his humanitarian gesture.
The Discovery and Recovery of the Bell
The wreck of the USS Jacob Jones remained undiscovered for over a century, until August 2022, when a group of expert divers found it about 400 feet below the surface of the English Channel, some 60 miles south of Cornwall. The divers were amazed by the condition of the wreck, which was largely intact and well-preserved. They also noticed the ship’s bell, which was still attached to the ship’s mast. The bell was made of brass and weighed 80 pounds. It had the ship’s name and the year of commissioning engraved on it. The bell was a historical and symbolic artifact, as it was used to signal the ship’s movements, to mark the time, and to call the crew to action.
The discovery of the wreck attracted the attention of the Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC), the U.S. Navy’s official organization responsible for preserving and protecting the Navy’s historical and archaeological resources. The NHHC partnered with the U.K. Ministry of Defense to study the wreck site, and to recover the bell. The NHHC’s policy is to leave the shipwrecks undisturbed, as they are considered war graves and sacred sites. However, in this case, the NHHC was concerned about the unauthorized and illegal salvaging of the bell, which could damage the wreck and disrespect the sailors. The NHHC decided to retrieve the bell, and to use it as a memorial to the sailors who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of both the U.S. and the U.K.
In January 2024, a specialized salvage unit from the U.K. Ministry of Defense’s Salvage and Marine Operations (SALMO) conducted a survey of the wreck site, and successfully recovered the bell. The operation was challenging and risky, as the wreck site was deep, dark, and cold, and the bell was heavy and fragile. The salvage team used a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to cut the bell from the mast, and to lift it to the surface. The salvage team also placed a wreath and an American flag on the wreck, to honor the lost sailors. The operation was a remarkable example of the cooperation and friendship between the U.S. and the U.K. in the naval domain.
The Bell as a Memorial
After the recovery, the bell was given temporarily to Wessex Archaeology, a private U.K. firm under contract with the NHHC, for documentation and conservation. The bell will be turned over to the U.S. during a ceremonial transfer later this year, and will be sent to the NHHC’s Underwater Archaeology Branch for further conservation treatment. The bell will eventually be displayed at the National Museum of the U.S. Navy in Washington, D.C., where it will serve as a memorial to the sailors who served and died on the USS Jacob Jones, and as a reminder of the history and heritage of the U.S. Navy.
We, the members and friends of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, are grateful and proud of the USS Jacob Jones and its sailors, who exemplified the values and ideals of the U.S. Navy, and who contributed to the security and freedom of both the U.S. and the U.K. We are committed to honoring their legacy and supporting the U.S. Navy and its sailors in their efforts to maintain and enhance their naval power, deterrence, and readiness in the 21st century. We invite you to learn more about the USS Jacob Jones and its history, and to visit the National Museum of the U.S. Navy when the bell is displayed. We also encourage you to continue your advocacy and support for a stronger U.S. Navy, and to join us in our efforts to promote naval power, deterrence, and readiness in the 21st century. Thank you for your attention and interest, and may God bless the U.S. Navy and the U.S.A.
The Virginia-class submarine program is one of the most successful and vital naval programs in the history of the United States. Since 2004, the Navy has commissioned 24 Virginia-class submarines, each one providing unparalleled stealth, speed, and firepower to the fleet.
These submarines are designed to operate in both open-ocean and littoral environments, and can perform a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, special operations, and strike warfare.
On February 23, 2024, the Navy and HII (Huntington Ingalls Industries) celebrated another milestone for the Virginia-class program: the launch of the 25th submarine, Massachusetts (SSN 798), at the Newport News Shipbuilding division. Massachusetts is the 12th submarine delivered by Newport News, which is one of only two shipyards in the country capable of designing and building nuclear-powered submarines. The launch of Massachusetts marks the completion of the major construction phase of the submarine, and the beginning of the final outfitting, testing, and crew certification process.
Why This Matters
Bill Cullifer, founder
The launch of Massachusetts is not only a remarkable achievement for the Navy and HII, but also a testament to the importance of the Virginia-class program for the national security and economic prosperity of the United States. As the Navy faces increasing challenges and threats from near-peer competitors and rogue actors around the world, the Virginia-class submarines provide a critical edge and deterrent for the U.S. and its allies. These submarines are equipped with the latest technologies and innovations, such as the Virginia Payload Module, which increases the missile capacity of the submarines by 75 percent, and the acoustic superiority program, which enhances the stealth and survivability of the submarines. The Virginia-class program also supports the industrial base and the workforce of the United States, creating thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in economic activity. According to a 2019 study by the University of Virginia, the Virginia-class program supports more than 23,000 direct and indirect jobs across 46 states, and contributes more than $4 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product annually. The program also fosters innovation and collaboration among the Navy, HII, General Dynamics Electric Boat, and hundreds of suppliers and subcontractors across the country.
Why Americans Should Care
The launch of Massachusetts is an occasion for all Americans to celebrate and appreciate the Virginia-class program and the men and women who make it possible. The Virginia-class submarines are not only the most advanced and versatile submarines in the world, but also the most cost-effective and efficient. The program has consistently delivered submarines ahead of schedule and under budget, thanks to the teamwork and dedication of the Navy and industry partners. The program has also achieved remarkable improvements in quality and performance, reducing the construction time and the number of issues per submarine by more than 50 percent since the first submarine was delivered.
The Virginia-class submarines are also a source of pride and inspiration for the American people, as they embody the values and ideals of the nation. The submarines are named after states, cities, and historical figures that represent the diversity and heritage of the United States. The submarines are crewed by some of the most talented and courageous sailors in the Navy, who volunteer to serve their country and protect its interests. The submarines are also a symbol of the strength and resolve of the United States, as they demonstrate the nation’s commitment to maintaining peace and freedom around the world.
About the History of the Virginia Class
The Virginia-class program was initiated in the late 1980s, as a response to the changing strategic environment and the need for a more flexible and adaptable submarine force. The program was designed to replace the aging Los Angeles-class submarines, which were optimized for open-ocean operations during the Cold War. The Virginia-class submarines were conceived to operate in both blue water and shallow water, and to perform a wider range of missions, such as land attack, special operations, and covert insertion and extraction of forces. The first Virginia-class submarine, Virginia (SSN 774), was authorized by Congress in 1998, and delivered to the Navy in 2004. Since then, the Navy has commissioned 24 Virginia-class submarines, with 10 more under construction and 11 more on contract. The current plan is to build a total of 66 Virginia-class submarines, which will constitute the backbone of the submarine force for decades to come.
The Virginia-class program is a joint effort between the Navy and two shipbuilders: HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division and General Dynamics Electric Boat. The two shipyards share the construction workload, with each one building certain modules and sections of the submarines, and alternating the delivery of the final products. The two shipyards also collaborate on the design and engineering of the submarines, and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the quality and efficiency of the program.
How Submarines Have Helped the US Navy
Submarines have been an integral part of the US Navy since the Revolutionary War, when the first American submarine, Turtle, attempted to attach a mine to a British warship in New York Harbor. Since then, submarines have played a vital role in every major conflict and operation involving the US Navy, from the Civil War to the War on Terror.
Submarines have helped the US Navy achieve several strategic objectives, such as: • Denying the enemy access to the seas and vital resources, such as during the World War II submarine campaign against Japan, which crippled its economy and military. • Providing intelligence and surveillance on the enemy’s activities and capabilities, such as during the Cold War submarine missions that collected valuable information on the Soviet Navy and its nuclear weapons. • Delivering precision strikes on high-value targets, such as during the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan, when submarines launched Tomahawk cruise missiles against enemy installations and leadership. • Supporting special operations and covert actions, such as during the Vietnam War and the War in Iraq, when submarines inserted and extracted Navy SEALs and other special forces behind enemy lines. • Deterring aggression and maintaining stability, such as during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the current Indo-Pacific region, when submarines provide a credible and survivable nuclear deterrent and a conventional response option.
Submarines have also contributed to the scientific and technological advancement of the US Navy and the nation, such as: • Exploring the depths and mysteries of the oceans, such as when the submarine Trieste reached the bottom of the Mariana Trench, the deepest point on Earth, in 1960. • Developing and testing new technologies and systems, such as nuclear propulsion, sonar, navigation, communication, and weapons, that have enhanced the performance and capabilities of the submarine force and the entire Navy. • Promoting innovation and excellence, such as by fostering a culture of learning, experimentation, and adaptation among the submarine community, and by attracting and retaining some of the best and brightest minds in the Navy and the nation.
Conclusion
The launch of Massachusetts is a remarkable achievement for the Navy and HII, and a significant milestone for the Virginia-class program. The Virginia-class submarines are the most advanced and versatile submarines in the world, and provide a critical edge and deterrent for the US and its allies. The Virginia-class program also supports the industrial base and the workforce of the US, creating thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in economic activity. The Virginia-class program is a source of pride and inspiration for the American people, as it embodies the values and ideals of the nation, and demonstrates the nation’s commitment to maintaining peace and freedom around the world.
The Americans for a Stronger Navy is a non-profit organization that advocates for a robust and modern naval force that can protect and advance the interests of the US and its allies. We believe that the Virginia-class program is essential for the national security and economic prosperity of the US, and we support the Navy and HII in their efforts to deliver these submarines to the fleet. We urge Congress and the administration to fully fund and sustain the Virginia-class program, and to ensure that the Navy has the resources and the authority to maintain and expand its submarine force.
We also encourage the American people to learn more about the Virginia-class program and the submarine force, and to support and appreciate the men and women who serve on these submarines. Together, we can make the US Navy stronger and the nation safer.
In a significant follow-up to our ongoing efforts to enhance Navy recruitment, I, as the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, have reached out directly to the Navy to obtain access to their user survey data. This proactive step is part of our comprehensive strategy to understand and address the challenges in recruitment.
Feedback from our members has been overwhelmingly insightful, highlighting a spectrum of concerns and perceptions. Notably, many have pointed to the prevailing ‘woke culture’ within the Navy as a potential deterrent to recruitment. This feedback is invaluable as it provides a direct insight into the sentiments and concerns of our community.
Furthermore, a former recruiter within our ranks has proposed an intriguing solution to the recruitment shortfall: increasing the compensation for recruiters. This suggestion is based on the premise that better incentives could lead to more effective recruitment efforts. Given the complex nature of recruitment and the challenges faced, this approach seems logical and warrants serious consideration.
Senior Advisor Appointment: We’ve welcomed Eryck P. Stamper, ITCS(SW/AW/EXW) USN ret., as a Senior Advisor to spearhead our Navy Recruitment Initiatives. His extensive experience and dedication are expected to bring valuable insights to our efforts.
Advisory Group Efforts: Our dedicated advisory group, comprising veterans and industry experts, is actively exploring strategies to overcome recruitment and retention challenges. This includes a thorough analysis to identify effective recruitment strategies.
National Service Dialogue: Inspired by observations from Strengthening the Fleet: Innovative Strategies for Navy Recruitment” Senior Advisor Dale A. Jenkins, we’re initiating discussions on the potential benefits of linking national service to community contributions. This broader perspective aims to explore innovative solutions to the recruitment crisis.
Direct Engagement with the Navy: I have personally reached out to the Navy to access user survey data, aiming to leverage this information to better understand and tackle recruitment challenges.
Community Feedback: Feedback from our members has highlighted concerns regarding the impact of ‘woke culture’ on recruitment. This perspective is critical as it reflects the sentiments within our community.
Recruitment Incentives: A former recruiter has suggested that increasing compensation for recruiters could be a viable solution to improve recruitment efforts. This proposal seems to be a reasonable strategy to address recruitment shortfalls.
By sharing these updates, we aim to keep our community informed and engaged in our collective efforts to support and strengthen Navy recruitment. Your feedback and insights are invaluable to us as we navigate these challenges together.
The First Island Chain, extending from Japan through Taiwan to the Philippines and Borneo. NOTE TO READER: The blue line should go between Taiwan and China because Taiwan is an integral component of the First Island Chain.
Introduction
Bill Cullifer, Founder
In an era where global dynamics are rapidly evolving, the strategic importance of the Pacific region in maintaining America’s defense capabilities cannot be overstressed. A key element, often overlooked even by the well-informed, is the mid-Pacific chain of islands. These islands are not just dots on the map but pivotal assets in the geopolitical chessboard, ensuring America’s military and strategic superiority in the Asia-Pacific.
Strategic Significance of the Compacts of Free Association
The First Island Chain’s Defense Backbone
The First Island Chain, extending from Japan through Taiwan to the Philippines and Borneo, forms a natural barrier crucial for regional stability and security. However, its defense is untenable without a secure base of operations in the central Pacific, provided by the Compacts of Free Association (COFA) states: Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Marshall Islands.
Guardians of the Central Pacific
These nations, through COFA agreements with the U.S., offer more than just strategic locations; they ensure American military mobility and operational freedom across a vast east-west corridor. This not only deters potential adversaries but also fortifies America’s defense posture across the Pacific.
Financial and Diplomatic Dimensions
A Cost-Effective Investment
At a glance, the financial commitment to the COFA states—$2.3 billion over 20 years—may seem substantial. However, when contextualized within the broader U.S. defense budget and the strategic value it brings, this investment is not only prudent but also cost-effective. The COFA agreements represent a fraction of America’s defense expenditure but play a critical role in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Reciprocal Benefits
Beyond financial aid, the COFA agreements encompass deeper ties, including the right for COFA citizens to work in the U.S., many of whom serve in the U.S. military at commendable rates. This reciprocal relationship strengthens cultural and economic bonds, enhancing the strategic partnership beyond mere financial transactions.
Why This Matters
In the current geopolitical climate, where the balance of power in the Pacific is increasingly contested, the role of the COFA states becomes even more critical. The strategic locations of these island nations offer unparalleled advantages for surveillance, rapid deployment, and logistical support, essential for deterring aggression and ensuring regional security. The renewal of the COFA agreements is not just a matter of policy but a cornerstone of America’s Pacific defense strategy.
Conclusion
“The strategic landscape of the Pacific is intricately defined by the mid-Pacific islands, which are essential for our defense strategy. Dale A Jenkins, a Senior Advisor to Americans for a Stronger Navy and the author of ‘Diplomats and Admirals,’ poignantly underscores the critical significance of these islands within our defense framework—a fact that often eludes even the well-informed.”
As we navigate the complexities of contemporary geopolitics, the renewal of our agreements with these islands transcends mere policy—it’s an essential investment in the bedrock of America’s security and its leadership stance in the Pacific.
For entities like the Americans for a Stronger Navy and all advocates for regional peace and stability, championing these agreements is not just strategic but an imperative.
These partnerships stand as a testament to our enduring commitment to our Pacific allies, underpinning the collective security that safeguards our nation’s interests and upholds the values we share with our friends across the vast expanse of the Pacific.
