Analysis Archives - Page 2 of 7 - Americans for a Stronger Navy

July 22, 2025July 24, 2025

America’s Cyber Crisis Hits the Deck: The Tech Sector, China, and Why a Stronger Navy Matters

Introduction

This week, we saw confirmation of what we’ve feared—and been warning about—for over 18 months: America’s digital defenses have been compromised, and it’s our Navy that’s left exposed.

According to Politico, a sweeping cyberattack has been launched by at least three Chinese state-linked hacking groups: Violet Typhoon, Linen Typhoon, and Storm-2603.

Their target? Microsoft’s SharePoint servers—used widely across the federal government, including DoD and Navy-linked systems.

Microsoft, in a Tuesday blog post, acknowledged the severity of the breach. Independent security experts at Mandiant and Censys corroborated the finding: more than 100 organizations globally are believed to be affected—including multiple U.S. federal agencies, some tied to national defense.

The flaw? An unpatched vulnerability in Microsoft’s on-premise SharePoint product.
The result? Remote access into sensitive systems.
The fallout? Still spreading.

And it’s not the first time. In 2023, Chinese actors breached the emails of the U.S. Ambassador to China and the Commerce Secretary, also by exploiting Microsoft misconfigurations. It’s a pattern—and one we can no longer afford to ignore.

Why Americans Should Care

Here’s the hard truth: this breach is a symptom of a larger failure—one that involves the defense-industrial complex, Big Tech, and complacency at the highest levels of oversight.

Pentagon systems supported by China-based engineers
Software flaws ignored or inadequately patched
Critical U.S. infrastructure reliant on foreign nationals in adversarial countries

And now? The U.S. Navy, tasked with protecting global stability, must operate with compromised tools—while companies like Microsoft continue to make billions from government contracts.

It’s not just bad policy. It’s a national security liability.

Implications for the Navy

SharePoint vulnerabilities can compromise logistics, intel coordination, and real-time decision-making.
At least two Navy-related systems are believed to be among the dozens affected.
The breach arrives as the Navy pushes toward a critical readiness benchmark.

Acting Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James Kilby put it plainly:

“We must exercise strategic discipline, increase surge readiness, and protect scheduled maintenance. Our goal is to achieve an 80% combat-surge ready posture by 2027. We are currently at 60% readiness—and that gap is unacceptable.”

The Navy wants to prevent war, not provoke it. But readiness is the only deterrent adversaries understand. And right now, we are dangerously behind.

My Message: Fix, Educate, Mobilize

I’m not writing this to indict. I’m writing to fix and educate.

This crisis has serious implications. The threats are real. And the probability of conflict is rising.

I don’t believe in fear-mongering—but I do believe in calling things by their name. What we are seeing—again—is a system-wide breakdown in how we protect the digital backbone of our military.

This is what I’ve been shouting about for 18 months. Not because I enjoy sounding the alarm—but because someone must.

The taxpayers are left holding the bill.
The sons and daughters of those I served with are left to face the danger.
And the Navy is left to grovel for support to do what only they can—protect this nation at sea and abroad.

What We’re Doing About It

That’s why I launched Americans for a Stronger Navy—to demand accountability, readiness, and real reform.

And that’s why we’re rolling out:
Charting the Course: Voices That Matter—a 24-part educational series exploring:

The outsourcing of our military tech infrastructure
The erosion of our domestic workforce
The choke points in our digital and maritime defenses
Concrete ways to fix what’s broken

We’ll spotlight reforms in procurement, workforce development, public-private partnerships, and cybersecurity strategy.

Because the tech sector is culpable—and I call on them now to help us fix this. They helped get us into this mess. They must help get us out.

Final Word

Big Tech failed.
Oversight failed.
The Navy must now bear the consequences.

We’re not just talking about ships and steel—we’re talking about the servers, systems, and software that power warfighting in the 21st century.

And if we don’t wake up, the next war won’t wait.

👉 Join the movement at StrongerNavy.org
Support those who serve. Strengthen what they stand for.

July 21, 2025July 24, 2025

Microsoft’s China Problem Just Became America’s Wake-Up Call

If you’ve been following us over the past couple of years, you already know—we’ve been sounding the alarm.

Introduction

This week’s news confirms it: Microsoft allowed China-based engineers to support U.S. military cloud systems, including infrastructure tied to the Navy. It took a journalistic exposé, a senator’s inquiry, and finally a directive from the Secretary of Defense to shut it down.

Let’s be clear—this is systemic.

This wasn’t one company’s mistake. It reflects a broader failure—where critical defense infrastructure is entangled with adversarial regimes, our tech workforce has been hollowed out, and profit has been prioritized over patriotism.

This Is My Journey—and My Shout: From Destroyer Sailor to Digital Sentinel

My early days as a U.S. Navy destroyer sailor in the 1970s gave me a global perspective that’s stayed with me ever since. I saw firsthand how the world’s most critical maritime trade routes—from the Malacca Strait to the South China Sea—could quickly become flashpoints when adversaries or their proxies seized control. I came to understand just how vital the U.S. Navy’s role in freedom of navigation is—not only in defending democracy abroad, but in protecting our economic and strategic interests here at home.

After a career in telecommunications, I turned my focus to education. In 1997, I founded a national association committed to building America’s digital workforce. We trained web developers, server administrators, and IT professionals—because I believed then, as I still do, that digital strength is national strength.

Even back then, the writing was on the wall: rising dependence on China, fragile supply chains, and a dangerous complacency about safeguarding America’s digital and strategic backbone.

What I Saw Coming

I could see where this was headed. The decisions being made in boardrooms and bureaucracies—about outsourcing, offshoring, and chasing short-term profits—were creating long-term risks. And I knew exactly who would be left to deal with the fallout: our Navy and the sons and daughters of those I served with.

They’d be the ones sent to navigate hostile waters, defend contested choke points, and hold the line during crises that began far from the sea.

Why I Launched Americans for a Stronger Navy

I couldn’t sit back and hope it would all work itself out. I’ve seen too much. And frankly, it pains me to see the Navy have to grovel for support in an era where threats are multiplying—not receding.

That’s why I founded Americans for a Stronger Navy—to push for the readiness, resources, and respect our Navy needs. Because I know what’s at stake—not just for this country’s future, but for the safety of our allies and the stability of the global order.

This is just the beginning. In the weeks ahead, I’ll be breaking down what went wrong—and how we fight back.

More Than Microsoft: A National Security Crisis

The Navy—and the rest of our armed forces—now depends on cloud systems for everything from warfighting logistics to operational readiness. But when those systems are built or maintained by foreign nationals under weak supervision, our adversaries don’t need to hack their way in. They’re already inside.

This Microsoft scandal is just the latest proof point. Behind it lies:

* A depleted domestic technical base

* A defense industry over-leveraged to foreign subcontractors

* Big Tech firms chasing margins—not national security

And at the center of it all? A Navy that’s being asked to do more with less—and too often, without the tools it needs.

What Comes Next: Charting the Course

That’s why we’re launching Charting the Course: Voices That Matter—a comprehensive 24-session educational series designed to peel back the layers of how we got here, what went wrong, and what must happen next.

Each session will tackle a specific facet of the crisis—from the outsourcing of digital infrastructure and the hollowing out of our industrial base, to the cybersecurity vulnerabilities inside the Navy’s digital backbone. We’ll examine the influence of adversarial regimes, the failure of public-private accountability, and the high-stakes strategic chokepoints where our forces may soon be tested.

But this isn’t just about understanding the problem. It’s about charting a path forward.

We’ll offer concrete proposals to revitalize American shipbuilding, retrain our tech workforce, and rebalance the defense-industrial ecosystem to serve national—not corporate—interests. And yes—we’ll ask the tough question: how do we pay for it?

Because the days of bloated, inefficient spending are over. We need what Navy leadership is already calling for: a leaner, more lethal, and more disciplined force. As Acting CNO Admiral James Kilby put it, the Navy must:

“Exercise strategic discipline… while increasing surge readiness… without sacrificing scheduled maintenance,” with a goal of achieving “an 80% combat‑surge ready posture by 2027.”

We’ll explore potential solutions ranging from public-private innovation partnerships and industrial reinvestment incentives, to reallocating wasteful spending and rethinking procurement models that reward results—not red tape.

These sessions are designed to educate the public, inform policymakers, and mobilize everyday Americans—because this is not just a military issue.

It’s an American one.

We believe that a stronger Navy starts with a stronger nation, and Charting the Course: Voices That Matter is our call to action.

Final Word

Let’s be clear again—this is systemic. And if we don’t act now, the damage will only deepen.

We must rebuild American capability—not just in ships and steel, but in the servers and systems that power modern warfare and strategic readiness.

That means:

Holding Big Tech accountable

Strengthening our domestic tech workforce

Educating the public on the stakes—because the next war won’t wait

👉 Join us at StrongerNavy.org Together, we can strengthen what they stand for. Sign up for our free course, Charting the Course -Voices that Matter by linking here.

July 12, 2025July 12, 2025

Sea Power 2.0: Smarter Tools, Stronger Sailors, and the Promise of American Innovation

Introduction

We’re entering a new era of naval warfare—one where drones can fly farther than planes, submarines can think for themselves, and enemies strike not just with missiles, but with malware. But amid all the noise about autonomous systems and AI, let’s be clear:

America still needs sailors at sea.

Nothing can replace the judgment, courage, and leadership of a U.S. Navy crew. But we would be wrong not to give them every technological edge available. That’s where innovators like Palmer Luckey are stepping in—with bold ideas, operational tools, and a firm belief that deterrence should be smart, scalable, and American-made.

Meet the Man Behind the Disruption

Palmer Luckey is no ordinary defense entrepreneur. Best known as the creator of Oculus VR, Luckey turned his attention from gaming to national security in 2017 when he founded Anduril Industries. His mission: disrupt the bloated defense procurement system and deliver real-world, ready-to-use military tools at Silicon Valley speed.

Today, Anduril is producing drone interceptors, electromagnetic warfare systems, autonomous submarines, and smart command platforms that are already in service—supporting U.S. forces and our allies abroad.

“Porcupines, Not Policemen”

One quote from Palmer Luckey, shared in his 60 Minutes interview, captures the heart of a smarter deterrence strategy:

“My position has been that the United States needs to arm our allies and partners around the world so that they can be prickly porcupines that nobody wants to step on, nobody wants to bite them.”
— Palmer Luckey, 60 Minutes, July 2025

We believe Luckey’s philosophy echoes the enduring wisdom of peace through strength. The goal isn’t global policing. It’s creating strong allies, hardened targets, and enough capability across our partnerships that no aggressor wants to test the waters.In Luckey’s view, deterrence isn’t about overwhelming presence—it’s about posture. And in today’s world, that posture needs to be smart, fast, and often unmanned.

Why Americans Should Care

Our adversaries are innovating relentlessly—China with hypersonics, Russia with cyber sabotage, Iran with drone warfare. If America lags in defense innovation, we risk far more than budgets—we risk blood.

Luckey’s approach embodies the kind of entrepreneurial urgency that once won us wars and landed men on the Moon. He’s not waiting for a contract. He’s building the future now.

The government isn’t always fast. But the American spirit—when unleashed—is faster.

Smart Tools for a Stronger Fleet—Not a Sailorless One

Let’s be clear: We’re not advocating for ghost fleets. We’re calling for smarter fleets.

Destroyers, submarines, and aircraft carriers remain the bedrock of American sea power. But in today’s threat landscape, steel without software is just a target. Our Navy must be equipped to launch and command advanced tools—like the Roadrunner drone interceptor or Dive XL autonomous submarine—from the decks of manned ships.

Autonomous platforms shouldn’t replace sailors. They should protect them. Empower them. Extend their reach.

When a U.S. warship can deploy swarms of AI-powered sensors or coordinate with allies via a shared AI battlefield platform like LATTIS, our sailors gain more than data—they gain the upper hand.

A New Era of Deterrence

The old model—sending troops into every hot zone—no longer fits a world of proxy wars, satellite surveillance, and cyber infiltration. Instead, we need to export capability, not just commitment. Give our partners the power to defend themselves, and America’s deterrent grows without overextending our forces.

That’s the heart of the porcupine strategy: Don’t invite a fight. But make it painful to start one.

The Bottom Line
A Navy without sailors? That’s not America’s way.
But a Navy without innovation? That’s a risk we can’t afford.

Let’s give our fleets and our friends the tools they need to defend freedom—above, below, and beyond the sea.

Let’s Talk to the Man Himself
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe voices like Palmer Luckey’s deserve a national stage. We’ve invited him to join us for a conversation—about innovation, entrepreneurship, and what the next generation of defense leadership looks like.

Palmer, if you’re reading this: the invitation is open.

👉 Subscribe at StrongerNavy.org
👉 Follow the mission: #StrongerNavy #PorcupineStrategy #SeaPower2

June 30, 2025June 30, 2025

The Silent Swarm: Why America’s Drone Vulnerability Demands a Stronger Navy and a Unified Defense Strategy

Introduction

While most Americans were unaware, Langley Air Force Base—home to our most advanced fighter jets—was repeatedly violated by mysterious drone swarms beginning on December 14, 2023. Over the course of 17 consecutive nights, more than 40 drones flew undetected and unchallenged over one of the nation’s most critical military installations. As 60 Minutes reported in an updated segment on June 29, 2025, America’s radar systems—designed for Cold War-era threats—are increasingly unable to keep up with low-cost, high-tech tools of modern warfare.

Why Americans Should Care

These weren’t hobby drones. Some were the size of a small car, according to eyewitnesses and a four-star general. Their mission remains unknown, but their capability was unmistakable. The incursions forced the relocation of F-22 Raptors, revealing just how easily our homeland defenses can be tested—and potentially compromised.

This wasn’t a one-off incident. Similar drone sightings have occurred over nuclear facilities, weapons research labs, and Navy ships off the California coast. As General VanHerck put it, “It’s time we move beyond the assumption of Fortress America.”

Implications for the Navy

While drones flew over Langley, a 2019 swarm shadowed U.S. Navy warships for weeks. Logs showed they were drones, not UFOs. The suspected source? A Hong Kong–flagged freighter.

This points to a broader role for the Navy—defending not just overseas waters, but also our coasts, ports, and maritime infrastructure. As the first line of defense and the most globally deployed service, the Navy must be equipped with next-generation radar, counter-drone systems, and mobile response units.

The Interagency Breakdown
When drones flew beyond the perimeter of Langley, the FBI, FAA, Coast Guard, and local police all shared jurisdiction—but no one had clear authority. It took months before NORAD was given power to coordinate.

By contrast, the Navy’s command structure and expeditionary capabilities allow it to act decisively. This is why a stronger Navy, fully integrated into homeland defense and equipped for new threats, is a strategic necessity.

Implications for Industry and the Public
Ports, power plants, and undersea cables—many vital to both national security and daily life—are vulnerable. And while the Navy stands watch, it cannot shoulder this burden alone. It’s time for a whole-of-nation approach, with investment from industry, engagement from civic organizations, and strategic alignment across all services.

What Comes Next
General Guillot has ordered anti-drone “flyaway kits” for rapid deployment to vulnerable sites. But even he admits: as of now, low-altitude drone detection remains inadequate.

That must change. And the Navy must be part of the solution—from securing bases and maritime infrastructure to interdicting drone carriers at sea.

Conclusion
This isn’t just about drones. It’s about recognizing the threats of the 21st century and breaking out of the complacency that leaves us vulnerable. The U.S. Navy is uniquely positioned to lead in this mission—if we give it the tools, trust, and resources it needs.

To our readers
Want to stay informed and help advocate for a Stronger Navy? Explore more at StrongerNavy.org and sign up for our Educational Series to learn how maritime power protects our daily lives.

June 13, 2025June 13, 2025

U.S. Navy Destroyers Move to Support Israel Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) patrols the Red Sea, Sept. 28, 2023.

Quick Take
The U.S. Navy has repositioned two guided-missile destroyers to the Eastern Mediterranean as Israel braces for potential retaliation from Iran. These warships bring advanced missile defense capabilities and reflect America’s commitment to stability and deterrence in a volatile region.

While those remain in place, the Trump administration cut its boosted naval presence in half over the past month, with the Harry S. Truman carrier strike group heading home to Virginia. The Carl Vinson strike group remains in the Arabian Sea according to news reports.

Naval News Reports

Naval assets also were involved in assisting Israel as Iran fired missiles at Tel Aviv, one official said. It was not immediately clear if ships fired interceptors or if their advanced missile tracking systems helped Israel identify incoming targets.

The United States also is shifting military resources, including ships, in the Middle East in response to the strikes.

The Navy has directed the destroyer USS Thomas Hudner, which is capable of defending against ballistic missiles, to begin sailing from the western Mediterranean Sea toward the eastern Mediterranean and has directed a second destroyer to begin moving forward so it can be available if requested by the White House, U.S. officials said according to the Associated Press.

Background
On June 13, Israel launched its largest airstrike campaign on Iranian territory in decades, targeting over 100 military and nuclear sites. Key IRGC commanders were reportedly killed. Iran is expected to retaliate, possibly through missile strikes or proxy forces like Hezbollah and the Houthis. The U.S. is reinforcing its regional presence by deploying two destroyers equipped with Aegis missile defense systems, while the Carl Vinson carrier strike group remains stationed in the Arabian Sea.

What You Need to Know
1. Why the Destroyers Matter
These Aegis-equipped ships can intercept ballistic and cruise missiles, providing a mobile layer of defense for U.S. assets and Israeli territory.

2. Shifts in U.S. Naval Posture
With one carrier strike group returning home, the deployment of destroyers ensures continued naval deterrence in the region.

3. Iranian Retaliation Is Likely
Despite previous interceptions, Iran retains thousands of missiles and may respond through direct attacks or its extensive proxy network.

4. Diplomatic and Strategic Signals
The U.S. has affirmed its support for Israel while distancing itself from direct coordination. European leaders are calling for de-escalation, but Israeli officials have vowed to continue operations as needed.

Why Americans Should Care
What’s unfolding is a powerful reminder that naval power isn’t just about ships—it’s about protecting global stability, ensuring access to trade routes, and deterring conflict before it erupts. From missile interception to regional assurance, the U.S. Navy plays a vital role in keeping Americans safe—at home and abroad.

Bottom Line
You can’t surge a Navy. America’s ability to respond swiftly in moments like these depends on the strength, readiness, and global reach of our fleet. At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe this is the clearest proof yet that sea power is national power—and we call on citizens, leaders, and allies to invest in the Navy that protects our future.

April 13, 2025April 13, 2025

Open Letter: Give the Navy the Tools—And Stop Leaving Us to Pick Up the Pieces

By Bill Cullifer
Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy
Former U.S. Navy Destroyer Sailor (1970s)

There’s been a lively debate online between economic giants Larry Summers and David Sacks about tariffs, trade policy, and the consequences of decades of globalization. But while they spar over markets and presidential strategies, a bigger question goes largely unspoken:

Who picks up the pieces when economic policy becomes a national vulnerability?

As someone who served in the U.S. Navy in the 1970s and now leads Americans for a Stronger Navy, I’ve watched closely as the Navy quietly shoulders the consequences of decisions made far from the sea. While economists argue over the stock market’s reaction to tariffs, the Navy secures global trade routes, deters adversaries, and absorbs the burden of an offshored industrial base.

But the Navy isn’t alone. Entire sectors of American life—logistics, agriculture, energy, pharmaceuticals, entertainment, finance, and technology—depend on the smooth flow of global trade. From major ports and retailers to family farms and Fortune 500 companies, virtually every modern American business benefits from the stability the Navy helps provide.

The American economy is global because the U.S. Navy keeps it that way.

Yet in the recent debate, while Summers described trillions lost in market volatility and economic fallout, no one mentioned the ripple effects on military readiness, deterrence, or strategic capability. That absence reflects a dangerous blind spot.

When Wall Street stumbles, the Navy sails.
When diplomacy falters or trade routes are threatened, the Navy deploys.
But today it’s doing so with fewer ships, aging platforms, and underinvested shipyards—while our adversaries build, modernize, and maneuver.

This isn’t just a Navy issue. It’s a business issue. A national issue.

If your industry touches global trade—if you depend on international logistics, rare earth minerals, undersea cables, satellite access, shipping lanes, or simply consumer confidence—then you depend on a ready and capable Navy.

This is a message to American industry: You benefit. You must engage. You must contribute.

We need your voice—and your leadership—in support of:

Rebuilding our shipbuilding and repair base
Investing in drones, AI, and technologies that give our fleet an edge
Modernizing infrastructure and dry docks that sustain readiness
Funding advocacy and education to spark public awareness

The economic world order your industry thrives in exists because American sea power has kept the global commons safe for decades. That foundation is eroding—and silence is no longer an option.

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we’re connecting the dots between civic awareness, economic strategy, and maritime strength. We’ve launched a 24-part educational initiative to help Americans understand what’s at stake and how to act.

Explore the series: Charting the Course – For Country. For Unity. For a Stronger Navy.

Whether you’re a CEO, policymaker, investor, teacher, or neighbor—this affects you. Now is the time to link economic resilience with strategic defense. To give the Navy the tools—not just praise—before the next storm arrives.

This is your moment to lead. Not from the sidelines—but from the front.

Use your platform. Leverage your influence. Show the next generation that prosperity is earned—and defended.

Because a secure economy doesn’t start with policy.
It starts with power. And power starts at sea.

Learn more at StrongerNavy.org and join the movement to educate, equip, and engage.

A stronger Navy requires a stronger America behind it. Let’s get to work.

April 11, 2025April 11, 2025

Taiwan, Trade, and Sea Power: The Economic Catastrophe We Can’t Ignore

210728-N-FO714-1033 TAIWAN STRAIT (July 28, 2021) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) transits the Taiwan Strait while conducting routine underway operations. Benfold is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Deanna C. Gonzales)

Introduction

In a recent Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Senator Tom Cotton posed a sobering question to Admiral Samuel Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command: What would happen to the global economy if China attacked or invaded Taiwan?

The answer, echoed by both military and civilian experts, is nothing short of catastrophic.

Investor Ken Griffin warned that a rupture over Taiwan could send the world into “great depression circumstances.” Ian Easton of the Naval War College has long warned of China’s ability to disrupt global trade and exploit vulnerabilities in the Indo-Pacific. The U.S. Navy and our allies cannot afford to treat these concerns as hypothetical.

Why Taiwan Matters to the Global Economy

Taiwan is not only a leading global manufacturer of semiconductors—it is also a key node in international shipping. Roughly one-third of the world’s trade passes through the South China Sea. Any disruption caused by Chinese military action—especially a blockade or invasion of Taiwan—would choke critical sea lanes and sever the supply chains that power everything from cars to smartphones to critical defense systems.

What Ken Griffin Got Right

In January 2024, Griffin put it bluntly:

“If there were a rupture around Taiwan, it would be catastrophic to both the Chinese and to the American economy.”

Griffin wasn’t talking about market jitters—he was warning about supply chain collapse, capital flight, manufacturing shutdowns, and global financial panic. These effects wouldn’t just hit Wall Street—they would impact farmers, truckers, teachers, and service members alike.

Sea Power Is Economic Poweruh

This is why Americans for a Stronger Navy continues to sound the alarm. The U.S. Navy isn’t just a military force—it’s a shield for global commerce. Sea power ensures stability in the Indo-Pacific and protects the economic lifelines that Americans depend on.

Today’s tools of deterrence extend beyond warships. Ships, drones, AI—they all play a critical role in keeping trade flowing and conflict at bay. Without continued investment in these technologies and the people who operate them, our economy and our alliances remain vulnerable.

Blockade drills and military posturing by China are not symbolic—they are preparation. And we must respond with strategic clarity, industrial readiness, and unwavering public support for naval strength.

Conclusion: Americans Deserve to Know

This isn’t just a military issue—it’s an economic one. The American people deserve to understand what’s at stake, and what it means to be unprepared.

If we fail to invest in our fleet, fortify our alliances, and educate the public, we risk more than just ships—we risk our prosperity.

April 3, 2025April 3, 2025

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.

March 26, 2025March 26, 2025

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.

February 28, 2025March 12, 2025

Australia’s Naval Reality Check—America Should Take Notes

If Australia is vulnerable, what does that mean for America?

In a recent article for The Australian, Jennifer Parker—an expert associate at the National Security College, Australian National University, and an adjunct fellow in naval studies at the University of New South Wales Canberra—examined China’s latest naval maneuvers near Australia. Her analysis sheds light on vulnerabilities that should concern not just Australia, but the United States as well.

A stark reality: China’s naval task force is actively testing Australia’s response—militarily, politically, and diplomatically. A Chinese fleet operating near Australia’s waters isn’t just a message to Canberra; it’s a signal to the world that Beijing is expanding its reach.

For Americans, this should be a wake-up call. Australia, a key U.S. ally, has long enjoyed security from major conflicts. Yet, China’s maneuvers off its coast expose vulnerabilities in a way that should concern every nation reliant on maritime security, global trade, and naval power.

If China can challenge Australia’s sovereignty at sea today, what stops it from doing the same to America and its allies tomorrow?

China’s Strategy: Testing and Expanding

The deployment of a Chinese naval task group so close to Australia is no accident. It follows a pattern:

Probing reactions. Just as it has done in the South China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and Latin American ports, China is assessing how the world will respond to its growing military presence.
Disrupting global security norms. Conducting live-fire drills near civilian air routes, refusing to issue proper warnings, and testing defense response times all serve a greater goal—normalizing an expanded Chinese naval footprint.
Challenging the free world. This is about more than Australia. China is signaling that it has the capability—and the intent—to pressure democratic nations and reshape global power structures in its favor.

This matters to the United States because we rely on the same global shipping lanes, trade networks, and security partnerships that China is testing right now.

Lessons for the U.S. Navy and America

Jennifer Parker’s article points out an uncomfortable truth: Australia’s navy is struggling to meet growing demands. Its limited number of warships, outdated replenishment capabilities, and defense spending shortfalls are now under the spotlight.

But let’s not pretend this problem is unique to Australia.

The U.S. Navy is stretched thin. With growing commitments in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and beyond, America is already balancing a smaller fleet against greater global threats.
Shipbuilding capacity is a bottleneck. While China launches warships at record speed, the U.S. struggles to maintain its current fleet.
Defense funding debates mirror Australia’s. At just 2% of GDP, U.S. defense spending is below Cold War levels, and ship procurement continues to face budgetary and political hurdles.

Australia’s vulnerabilities should be a case study for the United States. If a key U.S. ally is struggling to keep pace with China’s naval expansion, America cannot afford to take its own naval dominance for granted.

What Needs to Happen Next?

The right response is not panic—it’s preparation. America must learn from Australia’s situation and take the following steps:

Increase Naval Readiness
- The U.S. must expand and modernize its fleet, ensuring it has the ships, submarines, and logistical support needed to deter threats.
- Fleet maintenance and shipyard infrastructure must be prioritized so that existing assets remain operational.
Strengthen Strategic Alliances
- The U.S.-Australia partnership is critical—joint naval exercises, intelligence sharing, and strategic basing agreements must be expanded.
- Coordination with Japan, the Philippines, India, and other Indo-Pacific allies must also be reinforced.
Engage the American Public
- Most Americans aren’t aware of how dependent the U.S. economy and security are on naval power.
- China isn’t just flexing its military strength—it’s waging a long-term strategic contest to control global trade, technology, and resources.
- If we don’t educate and rally support for a stronger Navy now, we risk falling behind when it matters most.