The backbone of American naval power, the U.S. Navy’s shipbuilding industry, is facing a critical juncture. Years of delays in key programs have raised concerns about the Navy’s ability to maintain its edge and keep pace with potential adversaries. But the path forward is a complex one, fraught with economic considerations, national security implications, and the very real question of what price tag comes with rebuilding domestic shipbuilding capacity.
This investigative series will delve into the issue, giving voice to a range of stakeholders and exploring the potential solutions. We, the American people, ultimately foot the bill and rely on a strong Navy. This series aims to provide transparency and spark conversation about how to best move forward.
The Problem: Delays and Mounting Concerns
Recent reports paint a concerning picture. The Navy acknowledges delays of up to three years in major shipbuilding programs, impacting vessels like the Columbia-class submarine and the Constellation-class frigate. These delays raise serious questions about the Navy’s ability to meet its operational needs and deter potential threats.
Stakeholders: Who Has a Say?
Understanding the issue requires hearing from all sides. We’ll be speaking with:
Navy Leadership: What are the Navy’s specific concerns with delays? What solutions are they exploring?
Shipbuilders: What challenges are they facing that contribute to delays?
Policy Experts: How do these delays impact national security on a global scale?
Taxpayers: What are the economic implications of various solutions, including potential cost increases for domestically-built ships?
A New Twist: The Secretary of the Navy Visits South Korea
Adding another wrinkle to the story, in February 2024, U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro visited shipyards in South Korea, a world leader in shipbuilding. This visit sparked speculation about whether the Navy might be considering partnerships or outsourcing some shipbuilding efforts to alleviate domestic delays.
New Details Emerge: A Look at the Press Release
An official U.S. Navy press release sheds light on Secretary Del Toro’s visit and reveals some key details:
Focus on Collaboration: The primary goal of the visit was to attract Korean investment in U.S. shipbuilding facilities. This suggests the Navy is exploring partnerships with South Korean companies to bolster domestic capacity and efficiency.
Advanced Technology: The press release highlights Secretary Del Toro’s interest in the advanced technology used by Korean shipbuilders. Collaboration could potentially lead to improvements in U.S. shipbuilding techniques.
Long-Term Vision: The press release emphasizes Secretary Del Toro’s vision for a revitalized U.S. shipbuilding industry that encompasses both commercial and naval vessels. This broader perspective suggests a long-term strategy for strengthening the entire maritime sector.
Looking Ahead: Building Here vs. Outsourcing
The debate hinges on two central options:
Domestic Shipbuilding: Renewed investment in American shipyards could create jobs and bolster domestic manufacturing. But it might come at a cost in terms of time and expense.
Outsourcing: Turning to foreign shipyards could expedite production and potentially reduce costs. However, this raises concerns about national security and dependence on foreign entities.
A Complex Calculus: Speed, Cost, and Security
The ideal solution likely lies somewhere between these extremes. We’ll explore:
The “cost” of outsourcing: Is it solely financial? What are the potential security risks of relying on foreign shipbuilders for critical naval vessels?
Maximizing Efficiency: Can domestic shipyards improve efficiency to compete with foreign options?
The Long-Term View: What does a sustainable shipbuilding strategy look like for the U.S.?
We Need Your Voice: Join the Conversation
This investigation is for the American people. We encourage your questions, comments, and insights. As we delve deeper into the issue, let’s have an open dialogue about the future of American shipbuilding.
In the vast and often tumultuous sea that is national defense, the US Navy stands as a beacon of strength and resilience. Yet, even the mightiest fleets face storms that test their mettle and resolve. Recent revelations about significant delays in critical shipbuilding programs amidst the rising tide of strategic competition underscore the challenges at the helm of America’s naval future.
The Heart of the Matter
As the Navy’s largest trade show, the Sea-Air-Space Exposition, unfolded without the customary briefings on marquee shipbuilding programs, the waves of concern grew taller. A damning internal report unveiled sweeping delays across four pivotal shipbuilding endeavors, casting shadows over our naval preparedness against the backdrop of an expanding Chinese fleet.
The Delays Unpacked:
The cascading delays, stretching from one to three years across various programs, reveal a complex web of supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by the global pandemic, and a pattern of changing designs mid-construction. At the core of this storm is not just a battle against time and resources, but a struggle to adapt and realign with the relentless pace of technological and geopolitical shifts.
Implications for Strategic Readiness:
The ripples of these delays extend far beyond the shipyards. They touch upon the very essence of our strategic readiness and our ability to project power across the globe. As we navigate through these troubled waters, the need for a resilient and adaptable naval force has never been more pronounced.
Charting a Course Forward
In the face of these challenges, the path forward demands more than just steadfast resolve; it requires a comprehensive reevaluation of our shipbuilding and procurement strategies. This involves not only addressing the immediate hurdles of supply chain and workforce shortages but also fostering a more agile and responsive industrial base that can weather the storms of uncertainty.
A Call to Action
As we stand at this critical juncture, the call to action resonates louder than ever. It is a call for collaboration between the Navy, Congress, and industry partners to forge innovative solutions that ensure the timely delivery of our future fleet. It is a call for vigilance and adaptability in the face of evolving threats and opportunities.
Conclusion
The journey ahead is fraught with challenges, yet it is within the tempest that the true strength of our Navy and our nation is forged. As we chart a course through these budgetary and operational storms with foresight, innovation, and unwavering commitment, we face a critical examination of our shipbuilding practices and the evolving demands we place upon them. Bryan Clark, a seasoned voice from the Hudson Institute, articulates this sentiment, noting, ‘The Navy just keeps larding new requirements on the ships. And each new generation is so much more sophisticated than the predecessor that inevitably you’re going to get to the point where you’re just asking too much of the shipbuilding industry to punch out the ships on quick timeliness.’ This reflection serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between ambition and feasibility, urging us to navigate these waters with a keen eye on both the horizon and the depths beneath..
In the ever-evolving narrative of our Navy’s strength and readiness, each challenge we encounter is an opportunity to reaffirm our resolve and adaptability. Let’s engage in this crucial conversation, not as mere observers, but as active participants in shaping the future of American naval power. Together, we can navigate through the noise and chart a course towards a stronger, more resilient Navy.
The first MQ-4C Triton arrived to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, March 30, 2024.
Introduction
Key Takeaways
The MQ-4C Triton enhances maritime intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting (MISR-T) capabilities. This deployment signifies the growth of unmanned aerial systems within naval operations. The Triton’s advanced technology augments the capabilities of manned aircraft like the P-8 Poseidon. The strategic positioning in Sigonella expands the U.S. Navy’s operational reach in critical regions.
Advanced Capabilities on the Horizon
The MQ-4C Triton, based on the U.S. Air Force’s RQ-4B Global Hawk, is tailored for maritime missions. Its deployment to NAS Sigonella, a key hub for U.S. and NATO forces, significantly enhances the Navy’s ISR capabilities in the Mediterranean and beyond.
The Triton’s advanced sensor technologies allow for broad-area maritime surveillance, crucial for monitoring sea lanes, tracking potential threats, and supporting fleet operations.
Expanding the Fleet’s Eyes and Ears
The integration of the MQ-4C Triton into the Navy’s fleet operations is a game-changer. With its long endurance and high-altitude capabilities, the Triton can cover vast oceanic areas, providing real-time intelligence and enhancing situational awareness. This deployment not only extends the reach of the Navy’s ISR capabilities but also ensures a persistent presence in strategic maritime areas.
A Synergistic Approach to Maritime Surveillance
The Triton complements the P-8 Poseidon’s capabilities, creating a more comprehensive maritime surveillance strategy. This synergy between manned and unmanned systems allows for a more efficient allocation of resources and a continuous flow of intelligence, enhancing the Navy’s ability to respond to emerging threats and maintain a strategic advantage in global waters.
Implications for the Navy
The deployment of the MQ-4C Triton to NAS Sigonella is more than just an addition of a new asset; it represents a shift towards a more integrated, technologically advanced naval force. The implications of this are far-reaching, affecting operational tactics, fleet management, and strategic planning. The enhanced ISR capabilities provided by the Triton enable the Navy to operate more effectively in contested environments, ensure maritime security, and support global peacekeeping efforts.
Looking Ahead
The arrival of the MQ-4C Triton at NAS Sigonella is a testament to the U.S. Navy’s commitment to maintaining maritime superiority through innovation and technological advancement.
As the fleet continues to integrate more advanced unmanned systems, the strategic implications for global maritime operations are profound.
The MQ-4C Triton’s deployment is not just a step forward for the U.S. Navy but a leap towards a more secure and technologically advanced maritime future.
In conclusion, the deployment of the MQ-4C Triton to NAS Sigonella signifies a pivotal moment in naval warfare and reconnaissance.
This state-of-the-art unmanned system enhances the U.S. Navy’s ability to monitor and secure vast maritime areas, ensuring America remains at the forefront of global maritime security.
As advocates for a stronger navy, it’s crucial to recognize and support the integration of such advanced technologies into the fleet, bolstering our national defense and maintaining our strategic advantage on the world’s oceans.
In an era of unprecedented global challenges and technological advancements, the United States Navy’s pursuit of hypersonic capabilities emerges as a cornerstone of national defense and a testament to American ingenuity.
This blog post delves into the groundbreaking collaboration between the U.S. Navy and industry giants like Lockheed Martin, underscoring the pivotal role of hypersonic weapons in maintaining naval dominance and why every American should be invested in this endeavor.
The Vanguard of Defense: Hypersonic Weaponry
The significance of hypersonic technology in bolstering the Navy’s arsenal cannot be overstated. Capable of exceeding speeds of Mach 5, these weapons offer unmatched velocity and maneuverability, making them nearly invulnerable to existing defense systems.
This leap in military technology is not merely an upgrade; it’s a transformational shift in how power is projected on the world stage, ensuring that the U.S. remains ahead in the ongoing race for technological superiority against global adversaries.
A Landmark Partnership: Lockheed Martin and U.S. Navy
At the heart of this technological leap is the collaboration between the U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin, a partnership that exemplifies the fusion of military strategy and private sector innovation.
The awarding of a contract to Lockheed Martin to integrate the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system onto the Navy’s ZUMWALT-class destroyers marks a significant milestone. This endeavor not only enhances the Navy’s capabilities but also showcases the pivotal role of American industry in shaping the future of defense technology.
Why This Matters: Beyond Military Might
The integration of hypersonic capabilities into the Navy’s arsenal transcends military implications; it’s a matter of national pride and a reflection of the United States’ commitment to peace through strength.
These advancements ensure the Navy’s ability to protect American interests in every corner of the globe, reinforcing the U.S.’s position as a stabilizing force in an increasingly volatile world.
Moreover, the development and deployment of these technologies bolster the defense industry, a vital sector of the American economy, and a source of high-skilled jobs.
Why Americans Should Care: The Ripple Effect
Every American has a stake in the development of hypersonic capabilities, as these technologies play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future security landscape.
The enhanced defensive and offensive capabilities provided by hypersonic weapons are instrumental in deterring aggression, ensuring that threats to peace and democracy are kept at bay.
Furthermore, the success of such high-stakes technological endeavors reinforces the U.S.’s reputation as a leader in innovation, inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and military leaders.
Navigating the Future
As we look to the horizon, the importance of hypersonic capabilities and strategic partnerships like that of the U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin cannot be understated.
These advancements are not just about maintaining a technological edge; they’re about securing a future where American values and interests are protected and promoted on the global stage.
As citizens of a nation that leads through innovation and strength, understanding and supporting these endeavors is paramount for ensuring a secure and prosperous tomorrow.
In conclusion, the pursuit of hypersonic capabilities is a clear indicator of the U.S. Navy’s commitment to advancing national defense in the 21st century.
This initiative, bolstered by partnerships with industry leaders, is essential for maintaining the U.S.’s strategic advantage and ensuring the safety and security of Americans at home and abroad. As such, it is an endeavor that deserves the attention and support of every American.
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.
Chester Alan Arthur: A Forgotten Architect of America’s Naval Strength
Introduction:
In the annals of American history, some presidents shine brightly, while others, like Chester Alan Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, are less remembered. Yet, Arthur’s contributions, particularly in strengthening the U.S. Navy, were pivotal in shaping the country’s future.
This blog post, inspired by PBS’s extensive collection on American Presidents, delves into Arthur’s presidency and his unheralded role in fortifying America’s naval power.
Early Presidency: Chester Alan Arthur, a product of the New York political machine, ascended to the presidency in 1881 following the assassination of President James Garfield. Known for his integrity and honesty, Arthur’s administration was characterized by surprising reformative actions, especially considering his roots in political patronage.
Civil Service and Domestic Policy: Arthur’s commitment to reform was evident in his domestic policies. He signed the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act, revolutionizing federal employment by prioritizing merit over political allegiance. His veto of pork barrel expenditures reflected a fiscally responsible approach, even as he indulged in refurbishing the White House with the creative touch of Louis Comfort Tiffany.
Foreign Affairs and Naval Expansion: Arthur’s presidency is notable for its impact on foreign relations and naval development. His efforts to lower tariffs and negotiate trade agreements demonstrated a progressive approach to international economics. However, his most enduring legacy lies in his vision for a modern U.S. Navy. Recognizing the strategic importance of naval power, Arthur championed the development of a fleet with steam-powered engines and steel cladding, a significant advancement from the wooden ships of prior eras.
Presidential Politics and Legacy: Arthur’s rise to the presidency, initially seen with skepticism, turned into a narrative of surprising integrity and dedication to public service. His battle against his political patron, Senator Roscoe Conkling, and his governance despite a fatal kidney disease diagnosis, showcased his resilience and commitment to the nation’s welfare.
Conclusion: Chester Alan Arthur’s presidency, often overlooked in the broader tapestry of American history, was a period of significant transition and modernization, especially for the U.S. Navy. His contributions laid the groundwork for America’s emergence as a major naval power in the 20th century. As Americans, we owe a part of our naval strength and international standing to this often-forgotten president, a testament to the lasting impact of Arthur’s administration.
The littoral combat ship Gabrielle Giffords leads a formation with the unmanned surface vessels Ranger and Mariner on Sept. 7, 2023. (MC2 Jesse Monford/U.S. Navy)
Dear Members and Friends,
As advocates for a robust and future-ready U.S. Navy, we constantly seek developments that shape our naval forces. Today, we bring to your attention a significant advancement in naval technology and strategy.
Unprecedented Deployment of Unmanned Ships
In a historic move, the U.S. Navy has completed its first deployment of four unmanned ships – Sea Hunter, Sea Hawk, Mariner, and Ranger. This deployment marks a pivotal moment in naval operations, integrating unmanned technology into the fleet.
The Pacific Voyage
The deployment spanned five months, with these prototypes sailing a combined 46,651 nautical miles and visiting ports in Japan and Australia. A noteworthy aspect was their autonomous mode operation, showcasing advanced technology and strategic capability.
Testing and Integration into Fleet Operations
Under the oversight of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, this deployment aimed to test the integration of unmanned ships with crewed fleet operations. The insights gained from this exercise are crucial in refining operations and sustainment concepts for future deployments.
Command and Control Successes
A significant achievement was the effective command and control of these vessels, operated remotely or autonomously. This aspect of the operation represents a major advancement in naval warfare technology and strategy.
Challenges and Future Developments
Despite successes, integration of the USV into the broader sensor and shooter network remains a challenge. The upcoming Integrated Combat System promises to enhance data sharing and operational efficiency across the fleet.
Featured Coverage and Insights
Surface Navy Coverage and eBook Outlook 2024: This segment offers a glimpse into the future of naval operations and technology.
Point of View: The New Era of Cloud-Enabled Missions: Insights into how cloud technology is revolutionizing naval missions.
As we witness these remarkable advancements, it’s essential to remember the words of the great naval leader, Admiral Chester Nimitz: “A ship is more than a mere vessel; it embodies the will and intent of those who sail her.” These unmanned ships are not just technological marvels; they represent the innovative spirit and strategic foresight of the U.S. Navy.
We, at Americans for a Stronger Navy, are excited about these developments and remain committed to supporting a strong, technologically advanced, and strategically adept U.S. Navy.
Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s sail forward to a stronger future!
I’ve had the privilege of engaging with multiple experts at the forefront of naval innovation and strategy.
These conversations have illuminated the significant technological strides and forward thinking in the U.S. Navy, particularly in the realm of autonomous vessels.
During a brief pause in these discussions, my thoughts drifted to the storied Army-Navy football game set for December 9, 2023. This annual event, steeped in tradition and camaraderie, sparked a curious reflection on the future intersection of technology and tradition.
In a creative moment, I envisioned autonomous Army and Navy football players – a fusion of technology and sport. This vision, while fascinating in a technological sense, also stirred a poignant realization.
The rapid evolution of autonomous technologies, while enhancing our naval capabilities, might also mean that future generations could miss out on traditional experiences. The prospect of serving at sea or competing on the football field might become memories of a bygone era.
This duality is at the heart of our upcoming series. While we explore the technological advancements and their implications for national security, we must also acknowledge the sentimental aspects. The camaraderie of sailors at sea, the saltiness in the air, the taste of ballpark hot dogs, and the roar of the crowd at a football game – these are experiences that shape character, foster bonds, and define human experiences.
As members and friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy, you understand the delicate balance between embracing innovation and preserving tradition. Our naval history is rich with tales of bravery and unity, and our future promises unprecedented technological prowess.
Let’s embrace this journey together, exploring how these advancements will shape the U.S. Navy while remembering the human element that has always been its backbone. The future of American naval power is not just about ships and technology; it’s about the people who serve and the traditions that bind us.
Welcome to “Fleet Forward: Charting Tomorrow’s Navy,” a personal endeavor born from my commitment as your host Bill Cullifer, founder and former Destroyer Navy Sailor to ensure the enduring strength and capability of our Naval forces. With this series, inspired by our shared values and patriotic spirit, we aim to complement our upcoming December podcast series ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’. Here, we’ll not only delve into the Navy’s shipbuilding strategies but also the stories and people behind them, reflecting on our national security, economic vitality, and our role on the global stage.
The Importance of a Strong Navy
As we face evolving threats in an increasingly complex global landscape, a strong Navy is not just a matter of national pride—it is a crucial pillar of American security and global stability.
The Process of Naval Shipbuilding
Inspired by a blog post from Brent D. Sadler, former U.S. Naval Captain and author of U.S. Power in the 21st Century, Our journey will explore the labyrinthine process of designing, planning, and budgeting that goes into creating the Navy’s vessels, with a special emphasis on the cutting-edge DDG(X) program.
The Format of Our Series
This format ensures a cohesive presentation that begins with the “why” before diving into the “what” and “how” of the series content.
The Challenges and Opportunities of Naval Procurement
In the wake of the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) critical analysis and ensuing public debate sparked by commentary from experts like Brent Sadler, our series will untangle the complex web of factors influencing naval procurement decisions. We’ll dissect the multifaceted challenges of aligning strategic imperatives with fiscal responsibility, technological innovation with logistical practicality, and political ambition with operational necessity.
The Stakeholders and Perspectives of Naval Strategy
Each episode will feature voices from a spectrum of stakeholders—military officers, defense analysts, policymakers, industry experts, and academics—to illuminate the diverse perspectives that shape the Navy’s trajectory. From the drawing boards where the future of naval warfare begins to the congressional halls where budgets are debated and determined, we’ll provide you with a holistic view of what it takes to build a fleet capable of securing American interests on the global stage.
The DDG(X) Program
Our deep dive starts at the heart of controversy—the DDG(X) destroyer. As a linchpin of the Navy’s future force structure, this program epitomizes the technological ambition and the budgetary challenges inherent in modern naval shipbuilding. We’ll scrutinize its design process, how it fits into the broader naval architecture, and the strategic thinking that drives its development.
The Main Topics of Our Series
As we embark on this analytical voyage through the Navy’s shipbuilding endeavors, our series will navigate through eight key topics that capture the essence of the challenges and strategies underlying America’s naval future. We’ll be examining:
• The overarching goals of the Navy’s shipbuilding plans and their strategic significance.
• The fiscal landscape of naval procurement, including budgeting processes and cost control measures.
• The technological advancements and design considerations in modern shipbuilding, with a spotlight on the DDG(X) program.
• The industrial base and workforce development necessary for sustaining and advancing shipbuilding capabilities.
• The geopolitical implications of naval power, focusing on the dynamics with near-peer competitors such as China.
• Congressional oversight and legislative impact on Navy shipbuilding, including funding and authorization.
• The operational requirements driving the composition and capability needs of the future fleet.
• Alliances and partnerships, such as AUKUS, and their influence on U.S. shipbuilding plans and strategic positioning.
Conclusion
In our next episode, we will dissect the recent CBO report and expert critiques like those from Brent Sadler, setting the stage for a series that promises a thorough dissection of the Navy’s path forward. Each topic will build upon the last, creating a comprehensive narrative that brings clarity to the complex world of naval strategy and shipbuilding.
Join us as we steer through these topics with expert interviews, panel discussions, and in-depth analyses, providing a 360-degree view of what it takes to maintain a Navy capable of meeting tomorrow’s challenges.
Submarines are indeed an integral part of the U.S. Navy’s future. Many agree that the United States needs more submarines if it is to deter China in the Indo-Pacific and maintain its maritime superiority.
Submarines are stealthy, survivable, and lethal platforms that can operate in contested waters and deliver precision strikes, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and special operations.
However, the U.S. submarine industrial base is facing serious challenges that threaten its ability to deliver the submarines that the Navy needs on time and on budget.
The submarine industrial base consists of two main shipbuilders — General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding — and hundreds of suppliers across the country that provide parts, materials, and services for submarine construction and maintenance.
The submarine industrial base is struggling to keep up with the growing demand for submarines, which has increased from one Virginia-class attack submarine per year in 2012 to two per year in 2021, plus the addition of the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine program, which is the Navy’s top acquisition priority.
The Navy has recognized the importance of stabilizing and strengthening the submarine industrial base and has taken some actions to address its challenges. However, these actions are not enough.
The submarine industrial base needs more support and investment from Congress, the Department of Defense (DoD), and from our view, especially from the American public if we’re going to get anywhere. Decisions surrounding our national defense and industrial capabilities shouldn’t just be left to policymakers in isolation.
In our history, we’ve seen time and again the profound impact public opinion and support can have on shaping policy decisions. For our submarine industrial base and broader naval defense, public support isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the lynchpin.
While experts can identify problems and policymakers can draft solutions, it’s the collective will of the American people that determines our nation’s priorities.
By becoming informed, involved, and vocal about the importance of a strong and capable Navy, the American public can be the driving force that ensures our naval defense remains robust and prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.
We echo the sentiments of urging Congress and DoD, and we further advocate for the American public to support and invest in the submarine industrial base.
Specifically, we need to:
Raise awareness of the imminent risks facing our naval defense. The U.S. Navy’s capability to deter potential threats, maintain maritime superiority, and ensure national security is at stake. Delays and shortcomings in our submarine and surface fleet programs could leave us vulnerable in a rapidly evolving global security environment.
It’s essential to mobilize public support now for increased funding for both submarine and surface fleet programs alike, including infrastructure, support services, and the often overlooked but equally important logistics.
Invest in education and training in career techical education for shipyard building and management in areas such as welding pipefitting and for naval STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. Beyond immediate funding and infrastructural upgrades, there’s an underlying need to address the skills gap.
If you are interested in learning more about the industrial base, the need for education and training, or supporting our cause, you can find more information at StrongerNavy.org.
