Category: Charting the Course

Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’ a podcast series that dives into the past, present, and future of the U.S. Navy and its impact on the world.

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Navigating the Waves: A Realistic Approach to Strengthening Our Navy

Bill Cullifer, Founder

As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I’ve always believed in the power of informed dialogue and unbiased facts to guide our advocacy.

With each post, we peel back another layer of the complexities surrounding our Navy’s readiness and capabilities. Today, more than ever, we stand at a critical juncture where our collective understanding and action can significantly impact the future of American naval power.

I’m committed to this journey and invite you to join me in this crucial dialogue for our nation’s security and prosperity.

In our ongoing exploration of the U.S. Navy’s budgetary landscape, a recent development has surfaced that underscores the intricate balance between strategic imperatives and fiscal realities. The decision to request funding for only one Virginia-class submarine in the fiscal 2025 budget is a stark reminder of the challenges we face in maintaining a formidable and ready fleet.

Understanding the Budgetary Landscape

Reflecting on our previous discussions, we recognize the imperative of clear requirements and strategic foresight in navigating the Navy’s budget allocations. The geopolitical landscape is ever-evolving, and with it, the demands on our naval forces. This backdrop sets the stage for our analysis of the latest budgetary decision and its implications for the future of American naval power.

The Virginia-Class Submarine Decision: A Case Study

Russell Rumbaugh, the Navy’s senior civilian overseeing financial management, emphasizes that the budget cut was not a political maneuver but a decision grounded in operational realities. This move is not about playing budgetary games but about facing the hard truths of our current capabilities and industrial limitations.

The implications of such decisions ripple through our defense ecosystem, affecting suppliers, manufacturers, and the broader defense industrial base. It highlights the perennial challenge of planning and scaling in an environment of fiscal uncertainty—a theme we’ve touched upon and that resonates deeply within the defense community.

Evaluating Strengthening Plans in Light of New Developments

Our commitment to evaluating the Navy’s strengthening plans through a multi-faceted lens remains unwavering. The recent submarine budget decision brings to light the critical balance between innovation and fiscal discipline. How does this decision impact fleet capabilities, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with our strategic objectives? These are questions we must ponder and debate.

Moreover, this decision must be contextualized within the broader tapestry of naval modernization efforts, including the DDG(X) program and the advent of unmanned systems. Each initiative, each program carries its weight in shaping the contours of our future fleet.

Seeking Balanced Perspectives and Moving Forward

In keeping with our ethos, we strive for a balanced and comprehensive discourse, drawing from a wide spectrum of perspectives. The dialogue around the Navy’s force structure and shipbuilding cadence is complex, with varying viewpoints on the path forward. As we dissect these decisions and their broader implications, we remain anchored in our mission to foster an informed and engaged community.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The journey toward a stronger Navy is fraught with challenges, but it is a journey we must undertake with resolve and insight. The decisions we scrutinize today will shape the maritime landscape of tomorrow. Let us continue this conversation with openness and a commitment to understanding the depth of these strategic decisions.

I encourage you to share your thoughts, feedback, and insights on this topic. Engage with us on our social media platforms and become an active voice in this vital dialogue. Together, we can navigate through the complexities and champion a stronger, more resilient Navy for our future.

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Charting the Course: The Future of American Naval Power – An Evaluation of US Navy Strengthening Plans FY25

Bill Cullifer, Founder

In our previous blog post, we acknowledged the importance of defining requirements before diving into the intricacies of Navy budget analysis.

We appreciate the insightful feedback received from a reader who highlighted this point, and we recognize the valuable insights it brings to our exploration of the Navy’s budget.

The US Navy plays a vital role in global security and national defense. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, it’s crucial to assess current plans for strengthening the Navy’s capabilities. This analysis will delve into various proposals and strategies, aiming to foster a well-rounded understanding.

To gain further insights into the Navy’s FY25 budget request, let’s take a moment to view a C-SPAN video featuring a press briefing by Navy officials. This briefing delves into the details of the proposed budget and its implications for strengthening the Navy.

Building a Stronger Navy

Building a stronger Navy requires a comprehensive understanding of its present and future needs. We explored critical areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and unmanned systems in our “Charting the Course – The Future of Naval Power” series.

We also delved into the DDG(X) program, the next-generation guided-missile destroyer envisioned as the backbone of the future surface fleet. You can find a more detailed analysis of the DDG(X) program within the series and by clicking here the summary of the series.

Evaluating Strengthening Plans

This framework focuses on several key criteria:

  • Cost-effectiveness: We will analyze the financial feasibility of each plan, considering both upfront costs and long-term maintenance expenses. While we may not have in-house accounting expertise to conduct an in-depth line-by-line budget analysis of each plan, we are committed to evaluating the broader financial feasibility based on credible data sources such as official Navy reports and analyses from respected think tanks.
  • Impact on Fleet Capabilities: The effectiveness of each plan in enhancing the Navy’s operational capabilities will be a critical evaluation point. This includes factors like firepower, survivability, and mission versatility.
  • Alignment with Strategic Objectives: We will assess how well each plan aligns with the Navy’s long-term strategic goals and national defense priorities.
  • Technological Considerations: The evaluation will take into account the technological feasibility and adaptability of each plan in light of evolving defense technology.

To conduct this analysis, we will rely on a variety of data sources. These include official Navy reports, independent analyses from think tanks, and insights from experienced naval experts.

By considering diverse perspectives and utilizing credible data, we aim to present a balanced and informative evaluation.

Examining Existing Programs

The DDG(X) program, among others, is a significant initiative aimed at modernizing the Navy’s fleet. A dedicated section within this analysis can detail the specific features and potential impact of the DDG(X) program in light of the established evaluation criteria. (Here, you can delve deeper into the DDG(X) program) [Refer to previous outline for details on how to approach the DDG(X) analysis]

Other Strengthening Plans: While the DDG(X) program represents a significant initiative, it’s important to acknowledge the existence of other proposals for strengthening the Navy. We are committed to analyzing these plans as well, utilizing the established evaluation framework.

Seeking Balanced Perspectives

Engaging with experienced analysts and experts from diverse backgrounds is vital for a comprehensive evaluation. We will actively seek out a range of viewpoints to ensure a balanced and informative discussion. This includes considering the perspectives expressed by stakeholders like Rep. Rob Wittman.

The quote from Rep. Wittman (March 11 statement) exemplifies the ongoing debate surrounding Navy force structure and shipbuilding cadence. By incorporating a variety of voices, we strive to present a nuanced picture of the challenges and opportunities facing the US Navy.

Moving Forward

Through this evaluation, we hope to contribute to a well-informed conversation regarding the future of the US Navy. By analyzing existing plans and fostering a dialogue with experts, we can help chart a course towards a stronger and more effective maritime force. We will continue this discussion in future blog posts, delving deeper into specific plans and the findings of our analysis.

Call to Action

We encourage our readers to share their feedback and suggestions for additional resources, especially regarding the financial aspects of these plans. Your input is valuable in ensuring a well-rounded analysis. We also invite you to engage on our social media Facebook page by following the links beloe to share your thoughts on strengthening the US Navy.

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Charting the Course: Steering Through Rising Tides – The Imperative for Strategic Vigilance

Chineese Navy guided-missile destroyer Xian – USNavy

Introduction:

In our ongoing series “Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of U.S. Naval Power in the Face of Chinese Challenges,” we continue to unravel the intricate tapestry of geopolitical maneuvers and military posturing that defines the current state of affairs in the Indo-Pacific region.

Last week, we laid the groundwork by examining the overarching themes of China’s maritime ambitions and their implications for global maritime security.

This week, we delve deeper into recent developments that further underscore the urgency and complexity of the challenges at hand.

Building upon our previous discussions, this installment aims to shed light on the escalating tensions in the South China Sea, particularly through the lens of a recent incident involving the Chinese coast guard and a Taiwanese tourist boat, as well as the broader implications of China’s unprecedented military buildup.

Join us as we navigate these turbulent waters, seeking pathways toward strategic vigilance and collaborative security in an increasingly contested domain.

Recent Developments and Escalating Tensions: A concerning incident reported by Reuters on February 19, 2024, involved Chinese coast guard personnel boarding a Taiwanese tourist boat near the Taiwan-controlled Kinmen islands. This escalation, following China’s announcement to strengthen law enforcement activity in the area, highlights the growing tensions near these frontline islands. The Taiwanese coast guard’s response, calling for peace and rationality, reflects the precarious balance in the region (“China coast guard boarded Taiwanese boat near frontline islands, Taiwan says,” Reuters, by Yimou Lee and Ben Blanchard).

Simultaneously, the rapid military buildup by China, described by U.S. Navy Adm. John Aquilino as unprecedented since World War II, brings into sharp focus the strategic timeline that China might be operating under. Aquilino’s warning, as reported by Matthew Loh in Insider on March 20, 2024, that China could be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027, demands a reassessment of strategic priorities and preparedness measures (“China is building its military on a ‘scale not seen since WWII’ and is on track to be able to invade Taiwan by 2027: US admiral,” Insider).

Implications for the Navy: These developments highlight the imperative for the U.S. Navy to enhance its strategic readiness and adaptability. The prospect of increased confrontations in the South China Sea, combined with the looming possibility of a more significant conflict over Taiwan, necessitates a robust and forward-looking naval strategy. This strategy must account for the multifaceted nature of modern warfare, encompassing not just traditional military capabilities but also cyber, space, and information domains.

The Role of Alliances and Diplomacy: In navigating these turbulent waters, the strength and cohesion of international alliances have never been more critical. Diplomatic efforts must be intensified to de-escalate tensions, promote conflict resolution, and ensure the freedom of navigation in international waters. Building on shared values and mutual security interests, the U.S. must work closely with its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific to present a united front against unilateral actions that undermine regional stability and international norms.

Advocating for Preparedness and Diplomatic Engagement: As tensions rise, “Americans for a Stronger Navy” advocates for a dual approach that emphasizes both preparedness and diplomatic engagement. Increased investment in the Navy, aimed at ensuring readiness for any contingency, must go hand in hand with a renewed commitment to diplomacy and international cooperation. By fostering open dialogue and collaborative security initiatives, we can work towards a future where peace and stability prevail in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Conclusion: The incident near the Kinmen islands and China’s pronounced military buildup serve as stark reminders of the evolving security landscape in the South China Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific region. As we continue to chart our course through these challenging waters, a balanced approach that prioritizes strategic readiness, reinforced alliances, and diplomatic efforts will be essential in safeguarding the principles of freedom and stability that underpin global maritime security.

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Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of U.S. Naval Power in the Face of Chinese Challenges

Chineese Navy guided-missile destroyer Xian – USNavy

lntroduction

In the “Charting the Course – Navigating the Future of Naval Power” series, we turn our attention to a pressing concern that has significant implications for global security and naval strategy: the potential risks posed by China’s growing assertiveness. Today, we delve into insights from leading experts and military officials who shed light on China’s strategic maneuvers and their impact on the future of naval power.

Why This Matters

The evolving dynamics of global power, particularly China’s ambitious geopolitical agenda, present complex challenges that demand careful consideration and strategic foresight. Understanding these challenges is crucial for formulating robust defense strategies that ensure peace, promote diplomacy, and maintain the freedom of the seas.

Implications for the Navy

The potential for conflict with China, particularly concerning Taiwan and the South China Sea, underscores the need for a well-prepared and resilient naval force. The insights from military leaders, such as Gen. Mike Minihan’s stark prediction of a possible war with China in 2025, highlight the urgency of readiness and the importance of strategic clarity in the face of emerging threats.

Escalating Tensions and Provocative Rhetoric: A Case in Point

As we navigate the intricate challenges posed by China’s strategic ambitions, specific instances underscore the need for vigilance and strategic prudence. A recent example is the provocative suggestion by Col. Dai Xu, a senior Chinese Air Force official, advocating for aggressive tactics against U.S. warships operating in the South China Sea, a region where Beijing asserts expansive territorial claims. During a panel discussion, Col. Dai proposed that in response to U.S. freedom of navigation operations, which challenge China’s claims, Chinese warships should not only intercept but also consider ramming U.S. vessels to deter their presence in these contested waters.

This rhetoric, though reflective of nationalist sentiments, is significant given Col. Dai’s position within the Chinese military and the publication of his remarks by state-controlled media, suggesting a level of endorsement or at least, tolerance by the Chinese government. Such statements, coupled with the ongoing militarization of the South China Sea by China, exemplify the type of confrontational posture that complicates diplomatic efforts and emphasizes the importance of a well-prepared naval force capable of ensuring peace and stability in international waters.

Moreover, Col. Dai’s hawkish stance extends to Taiwan, highlighting the potential for escalated tensions that could have broader implications for regional and even global security. The suggestion of forced reunification with Taiwan, regardless of economic consequences, adds another layer of complexity to the strategic landscape the U.S. Navy and its allies must navigate.

Advocating for Peace, Diplomacy, and Preparedness

In light of such developments, “Americans for a Stronger Navy” reiterates its commitment to advocating for peace and diplomacy as the cornerstone of international relations. We recognize that while diplomatic efforts are paramount, the realities on the ground — exemplified by the rhetoric and actions of figures like Col. Dai Xu — necessitate a posture of readiness and strategic foresight.

Expert Perspectives

  • In “Are China and the Philippines on a Collision Course?” from the United States Institute of Peace, authors Dean Cheng, Carla Freeman, Ph.D., Brian Harding, and Andrew Scobell, Ph.D., explore the escalating tensions in the South China Sea. They emphasize the need for a strong naval presence to deter aggression and maintain regional stability.
  • “How Primed for War Is China?” by Michael Beckley and Hal Brands in Foreign Policy examines the likelihood of China initiating conflict, particularly over Taiwan. They argue that risk indicators for such a conflict are alarmingly evident, necessitating a vigilant and prepared naval response.
  • Kyle Bass, in his CNBC piece “China hawk says Beijing could attack Taiwan by 2024, bringing ‘war to the West’,” discusses the potential for China to assert control over Taiwan by force. Bass’s insights underscore the strategic importance of naval power in deterring aggression and protecting democratic values.
  • The insights from Col Grant Newsham (Retd.) in “Friends of China have huge influence on Capitol Hill: Grant Newsham” published in The Sunday Guardian, delve into the multifaceted nature of China’s strategy, including political warfare and economic leverage. Newsham’s analysis reveals the depth of China’s influence and the critical need for a unified and strategic response to safeguard national and global interests.

Advocating for Peace, Diplomacy, and Preparedness

While we steadfastly support the principles of peace and diplomacy, the realities of the current geopolitical landscape necessitate a posture of preparedness. We advocate for increased investment in the Navy, not as a means to provoke conflict but as a vital component of a comprehensive strategy to deter aggression, support diplomatic efforts, and uphold international law. This balanced approach ensures that our naval forces remain capable guardians of peace and stability in an increasingly uncertain world.

Conclusion

As we navigate the challenges posed by China’s strategic ambitions, the insights from esteemed experts and military officials provide valuable guidance. Through informed dialogue and strategic investment in our naval capabilities, we can chart a course toward a future where peace, freedom, and security prevail. Engaging with these complex issues is not only a matter of national security but a commitment to the principles that define us as a nation and a global community.

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Charting the Course, Navigating the Future of Naval Power: The Navy’s Role in America’s New Warfighting Doctrine

Bill Cullifer. Founder

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.

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All Episodes Available Now! Dive Deep into the Future of Naval Power with “Charting the Course

Calling all members, friends, and naval enthusiasts!

The wait is over! All 7 information packef episodes with an historical perspectives and series overview including our very own thought leaders, discussing the top issues prior to our acclaimed series, “Charting the Course: Navigating the future of American naval power.”

All Episodes Available Now! Dive Deep into the Future of Naval Power with “Charting the Course are available for FREE at https://strongernavy.org/category/charting-the-course/.

Please Note: The blogpost in this special category start from the 1st in the series at the bottom of the page and work their way up.

You can bounce around of course, but to get the most out of the series start with the bottom post and work your way up.

Here’s a glimpse into what awaits you:

Embark on a thought-provoking journey as we explore critical topics with renowned experts, delving into the challenges and opportunities shaping the U.S. Navy’s future

Series starts December 7, 2023 scrolll down the page to find: Echoes of History: Steering the Future in Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power – Reflecting on WWII’s Legacy in Current Naval History

Inaugural Discussion: Welcome to Charting the Course: Navigating the  Future of American Naval Power’ a podcast series that dives into the past, present, and future of the U.S. Navy and its impact on the world. This is the inaugural discussion of our series with Billl Cullifer, founder for Americans for a Stronger Navy and Dale A. Jenkins, Senior Advisor and Author of Diplomats and Admirals” where we will introduce the main themes, topics and the speakers that we will explore in the coming episodes an eight-week journey that delves into the intricacies of naval power and the pivotal issues shaping our future security and stability

Episode 1: Dr. Steven Wills: Dive into the anatomy of naval strategy and its crucial role in shaping the Navy’s future.

Episode 2: Dr. Bruce Jones: Explore the historical and global significance of maritime power, analyzing its past and present dynamics.

Episode 3: Dr. Sam Tangredi: Journey into the realm of AI and its transformative impact on naval warfare, examining its ethical, legal, and strategic implications.

Episode 4: Dr. Scott Savitz: Navigate the cutting edge with non-lethal weapons and uncrewed platforms, understanding their potential risks and strategic advantages.

Episode 5: Bryan Clark: Venture into the technological horizon of naval warfare, exploring emerging technologies’ integration challenges and strategic impact.

Episode 6: Seth Cropsey: Grapple with contemporary naval challenges, dissecting global rivalries and strategic insights for a comprehensive understanding.

Episode 7: Jon Rennie: Conclude the series with Jon Rennie, focusing on the crucial elements of leadership, culture, and the balance between tradition and modernization within the Navy.

Whether you’re a seasoned naval buff or just starting your exploration, this series offers valuable insights for anyone who cares about the future of American naval power.

Don’t wait! Dive into “Charting the Course” today and share your journey with friends and family. Together, we can chart a course for a secure and prosperous future.

Sincerely,

The Americans for a Stronger Navy Team

P.S. Visit https://strongernavy.org/category/charting-the-course/ for detailed episode descriptions and more information.

Don’t wait! Dive into “Charting the Course” today and share your journey with friends and family. Together, we can chart a course for a secure and prosperous future. Follow the link below and happy watching, reading and listening.

All Episodes Available Now! Dive Deep into the Future of Naval Power with “Charting the Course” Americans for a Stronger Navy Team

P.S. Visit https://strongernavy.org/category/charting-the-course/ for detailed episode descriptions and more information.

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Charting the Course: Navigating Leadership Seas – From Submarine Command to Corporate Vision

Welcome to ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’.

Today, we’re delighted to have Jon S. Rennie, a notable leader in both the naval and business worlds. 

Jon is the Co-Founder, President & CEO of Peak Demand Inc., a leading manufacturer of critical components for electrical utilities, and a former U.S. Navy Nuclear Submarine Officer who served during the crucial period of the Cold War’s final stages.

With his extensive experience from seven deployments on nuclear submarines to leading eight manufacturing businesses for three global companies, 

Jon brings a unique perspective to leadership. He is the author of best-selling leadership books like

 “I Have the Watch: Becoming a Leader Worth Following” 

and “All in the Same Boat: Lead Your Organization Like a Nuclear Submariner,” and he slso hosts the Deep Leadership podcast. 

Jon’s core belief is that leadership is a pivotal force that can significantly enhance any organization’s performance.

In our discussion, Jon will share insights on how his experiences in the Navy and the industrial sector have molded his leadership philosophy.

 We’ll delve into the key leadership principles he advocates, and how they’re applicable to the dynamic challenges faced by the Navy today.

Discussion Points:

The Intersection of Naval and Industrial Leadership: Jon will explore how his naval career and industrial business ventures have influenced his leadership style and philosophy.

Principles of Effective Leadership: We’ll discuss the core principles and practices Jon teaches in his books and their relevance to the evolving context of the Navy in the 21st century.

Submarine Culture vs. Corporate Culture: Jon will compare and contrast these two distinct cultures, providing valuable lessons that could bolster America’s efforts to strengthen the Navy.

The Importance of a Strong Navy: We’ll delve into why a robust Navy is crucial for U.S. national security, economic prosperity, and global leadership, assessing the main challenges and opportunities ahead.

Supporting and Strengthening the Navy: Jon will offer his perspective on how we can bolster our Navy and the roles that different sectors of society play in this vital endeavor.

Join us as we navigate through Jon’s profound insights into leadership, drawing from his rich experiences in the depths of the ocean and the heights of corporate success, charting a course for a resilient and powerful future for the American Naval Power.

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Charting the Course – How to Secure America’s Naval Supremacy from Dr. Seth Cropsey.

Welcome to Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’ a podcast series that dives into the past, present, and future of the U.S. Navy and its impact on the world.

Today, we are honored to welcome Dr. Seth Cropsey, a distinguished former U.S. Naval officer, political figure, author, scholar, and President of the Yorktown Institute. Dr. Cropsey comes to us with a wealth of experience in naval policy and history, having served as a U.S. Naval officer and a former U.S. Department of Defense official. He is the author of pivotal works such as “Mayday: The Decline of American Naval Supremacy” and “Seablindness: How Political Neglect is Choking American Seapower and What to Do About It”.

 His expertise is frequently sought after in esteemed publications and media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, Foreign Affairs, and The National Interest, among others.

My co-host Dale and I have previously laid the groundwork by introducing key themes and objectives of our series, including an in-depth conversation with Dr. Steven Wills, a respected naval historian and former U.S. Naval officer, in our episode ‘Developing and Implementing Effective U.S. Navy Strategies’ and Dr. Sam Tangredi, the esteemed Leidos Chair of Future Warfare Studies and Director of the Institute for Future Warfare Studies at the U.S. Naval War College. and Dr. Bruce Jones, Senior Fellow – Foreign Policy, Center for East Asia Policy Studies, Strobe Talbott Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology, Brookings Institution. – Maritime Power Through History and Future – January 4, 2025. Dr. Scott Savitz, a renowned senior engineer at the RAND Corporation.

In this episode, Dr. Cropsey will offer his expert insights on how to secure America’s naval supremacy, a subject that is paramount for our national security, economic prosperity, and global leadership. Building on the themes introduced in our series, such as effective U.S. Navy strategies and the historical and future significance of maritime power, Dr. Cropsey’s perspectives will deepen our understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. Navy today.

Drawing from his extensive background, Dr. Cropsey will discuss the importance of a stronger Navy in the face of global challenges and the strategies needed to ensure America remains a dominant maritime power. His analysis will cover the critical areas of naval readiness, innovation, and the significance of fostering strong alliances and partnerships, particularly in key strategic regions.

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Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power – Advancing Naval Superiority in the Age of Autonomous Warfare and Global Rivalry

Today, we are privileged to be joined by Bryan Clark, a Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute.

My co-host Dale and I have previously laid the groundwork by introducing key themes and objectives of our series, including an in-depth conversation with Dr. Steven Wills, a respected naval historian and former U.S. Naval officer, in our episode ‘Developing and Implementing Effective U.S. Navy Strategies’ and Dr. Sam Tangredi, the esteemed Leidos Chair of Future Warfare Studies and Director of the Institute for Future Warfare Studies at the U.S. Naval War College. and Dr. Bruce Jones, Senior Fellow – Foreign Policy, Center for East Asia Policy Studies, Strobe Talbott Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology, Brookings Institution. – Maritime Power Through History and Future – January 4, 2025. Dr. Scott Savitz, a renowned senior engineer at the RAND Corporation.

Mr. Clark is a renowned expert in naval operations, electronic warfare, autonomous systems, military competitions, and wargaming. His extensive background includes distinguished service as a former U.S. Navy officer, analyst, and consultant.

Bryan Clark’s contributions to the field of naval warfare and strategy are substantial, demonstrated through his insightful reports and articles, including notable works like “Unalone, Unafraid: A Plan for Integrating Uncrewed and Other Emerging Technologies into U.S. Military Forces”.

In this session, Mr. Clark will share his invaluable perspectives on the current and future challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. Navy in the 21st century. 

With a keen focus on the escalating competition and rivalry from global adversaries such as China, Russia, and Iran, he will discuss strategies for the U.S. Navy to maintain and enhance its edge in terms of size, capability, readiness, innovation, and technology.

Additionally, Mr. Clark will address the crucial aspect of strengthening cooperation and coordination with allies and partners, particularly in strategically significant regions like the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. His insights will shed light on the vital role of the U.S. Navy in ensuring the freedom and security of the seas and the international order.

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‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power – Embracing Non-lethal Weapons and Uncrewed Platforms for Strategic Superiority’

Welcome to ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’.

Today, we’re honored to welcome Dr. Scott Savitz, a renowned senior engineer at the RAND Corporation.

Dr. Savitz is distinguished for his innovative approaches in leveraging new technologies and tactics to enhance the operational capabilities and resilience of military forces. With a profound commitment to advancing defense strategies, he holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Yale University, and a master’s degree and Ph.D. in the same field from the University of Pennsylvania.

As a prominent figure in defense analysis, Dr. Savitz has led pivotal research in areas such as the impact of non-lethal weapons, the integration of uncrewed platforms in military strategies, and the evaluation of military capability gaps in challenging environments like the Arctic. His insightful studies have provided crucial perspectives on strategic investments in emerging technologies by global military powers and the infrastructural needs for testing autonomous systems.

My co-host Dale and I have previously laid the groundwork by introducing key themes and objectives of our series, including an in-depth conversation with Dr. Steven Wills, a respected naval historian and former U.S. Naval officer, in our episode ‘Developing and Implementing Effective U.S. Navy Strategies’.

Dr. Savitz’s analysis on intelligence, threats to U.S. ports, and maritime domain awareness are invaluable for shaping future naval operations. His work also extends to historical insights on warship design and strategies for reducing airbase vulnerabilities. His comprehensive expertise and innovative research have significantly contributed to the understanding and development of contemporary military strategies.

He will delve into the roles of artificial intelligence, big data, and machine learning, guiding us through the complex landscape of modern naval strategies and challenges.
During the session, Dr. Savitz will address the transformative impact of non-lethal weapons and uncrewed vessels on naval warfare and seapower. He will discuss the strategic roles of these technologies in reshaping U.S. Navy tactics amidst global threats and competition.

By examining the integration of advanced systems, such as artificial intelligence and autonomous platforms, Dr. Savitz will highlight how these innovations can offer the Navy a strategic advantage while also considering the associated risks and ethical complexities. Furthermore, he will explore the potential of these technologies to enhance cooperation with international allies and their influence on the Navy’s evolving doctrine and culture. His insights will contribute significantly to the ongoing discussions about the future role of non-lethal and uncrewed technologies in national and global maritime security.