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
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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.
Welcome back to our series: From Depths to Skies: Exploring the Future Landscape of U.S. Naval Power. In this series, we aim to inform and engage our members and friends on behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy. We examine the current and future challenges and opportunities for the U.S. Navy in maintaining its global leadership and superiority in the maritime domain.
In the previous segment, we focused on the submarine fleet, one of the most important and complex elements of the U.S. naval power. We discussed its role, capabilities, and plans for modernization and acquisition. We also reviewed some of the reports and studies that have been published on this topic and provided our own analysis and recommendations.
In this segment, we will shift our attention to the submarine industrial base, which is the backbone of the submarine fleet. We will explore how the AUKUS defense technology partnership, which involves supplying Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, will affect the U.S. submarine industrial base and its ability to meet the demand for both domestic and foreign submarines. We will also look at how Congress and industry are responding to this challenge and what are some of the potential benefits and risks of this deal.
Proposed Funding for Submarine Industrial Base
On October 22, 2023, President Joe Biden submitted a supplemental budget request to Congress, which earmarks $3.4 billion for further investments in the U.S. submarine industrial base. This funding is intended to improve the build and sustainment rates for attack submarines in order to meet U.S. military requirements, and to support the commitments under AUKUS.
The supplemental budget request comes after 25 U.S. Republican lawmakers urged Biden in July to increase funding for the U.S. submarine fleet, saying that the plan under AUKUS to sell Australia Virginia-class nuclear-power submarines would “unacceptably weaken” the U.S. fleet without a clear plan to replace them.
The U.S. Navy also supports the supplemental budget request, saying that it is “critical” to ensure that the submarine industrial base can deliver both Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines on time and on budget. The Navy also says that AUKUS will “strengthen our ability to deter aggression, defend our interests, and maintain our technological edge”.
Key Takeaways from Congressional Hearing
On October 25, 2023, a subcommittee of the House of Representatives Armed Services Committee held a hearing on AUKUS and its implications for the U.S. submarine industrial base. The hearing featured testimony from Mara Karlin, acting deputy under secretary of defense for policy; Vice Admiral William Houston, commander of the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force; Rear Admiral Scott Pappano, program executive officer for Columbia-class submarines; and Rear Admiral David Goggins, program executive officer for submarines.
Some of the key takeaways from the hearing are:
• AUKUS contributes to building a more robust defense industrial base ecosystem that contributes to integrated deterrence; and … the submarine industrial base can and will support AUKUS.
• Congress is critical to the success of AUKUS, and needs to approve four legislative proposals this year: authorizing transfer of submarines to Australia; allowing maintenance of U.S. submarines in Australia and Britain; authorizing Australian funding for U.S. shipyards and training of Australian workers; and streamlining defense trade between AUKUS partners.
• The U.S. submarine industry is hoping to increase its production rate from 1.2 Virginia-class submarines per year to two – this on top of one Columbia-class submarine – but faces challenges such as supply chain fragility, labor shortages, and cost overruns.
• The AUKUS deal will require sharing sensitive U.S. technology with Australia and Britain, which poses risks such as leakage, espionage, or reverse engineering by adversaries or third parties.
• “AUKUS is an unprecedented opportunity to deepen our cooperation with two of our closest allies in developing cutting-edge capabilities that will ensure our collective security well into this century.” – Mara Karlin
• “This funding is critical to improve build and sustainment rates for attack submarines in order to meet U.S. military requirements, and will also support our commitments under AUKUS.” – Joint statement by Navy representatives
• “The fact is, the supply chain still remains very fragile. Any additional funding and support, whether it’s through the supplemental or other Navy support would be extremely helpful.” – Jason Aiken, General Dynamics’ chief financial officer
• “We are confident that we have the appropriate measures in place to protect our technology as we move forward with this initiative.” – Vice Admiral William Houston
• “The administration’s plan to sell Virginia-class submarines to Australia will unacceptably weaken our own submarine fleet without a clear plan to replace them. … The administration has not provided any evidence that our submarine industrial base can handle this additional workload without jeopardizing our own submarine programs.” – Representative Rob Wittman, ranking member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces.
Where We Stand
AUKUS deal is still being debated and negotiated by the governments and parliaments of the three countries involved: Australia, the UK, and the US. The deal also faces opposition and criticism from some other countries and groups, such as France, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, some Australian political parties and unions, some US lawmakers and analysts, and some environmental and anti-war activists.
The AUKUS deal has two main components: one is to help Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines, and the other is to enhance joint capabilities and interoperability in areas such as cyber, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and undersea capabilities.
The first component is expected to take at least 18 months of consultation and planning before the actual construction of the submarines can begin. The US plans to sell between three and five Virginia-class submarines to Australia in the 2030s, before Australia starts building its own submarines in the 2040s. The US Navy and the US submarine industry are hoping to increase their production rate to meet the demand for both domestic and foreign submarines, but they face challenges such as supply chain fragility, labor shortages, cost overruns, and technology protection.
The second component is intended to foster deeper information sharing and technology sharing among the three AUKUS partners, but it also requires streamlining defense trade and export controls between them. The US Congress needs to approve four legislative proposals this year to authorize the transfer of submarines to Australia, to allow maintenance of US submarines in Australia and Britain, to authorize Australian funding for US shipyards and training of Australian workers, and to simplify defense trade between AUKUS partners.
The AUKUS deal is a historic and strategic initiative that aims to enhance the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. However, it also poses significant challenges and risks for the three countries involved and their allies and partners. The deal will require substantial investments, coordination, and oversight from the governments, parliaments, militaries, industries, and publics of the three countries.
Conclusion
The AUKUS deal is a historic and strategic initiative that aims to enhance the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. However, it also poses significant challenges and risks for the U.S. submarine industrial base, which is already under pressure to deliver submarines for the U.S. Navy and its allies. The deal will require substantial investments, coordination, and oversight from Congress, the Pentagon, the Navy, and the industry to ensure that it does not compromise the quality, quantity, or timeliness of the U.S. submarine fleet.
We at Americans for a Stronger Navy believe that AUKUS could be a worthwhile and beneficial endeavor that could strengthen our naval power and our alliances. However, we also acknowledge that there are different views and perspectives on this deal, both within and outside the U.S. We think that it is important to learn more from those who support and those who oppose the deal, and to understand their arguments and concerns. We also think that it is vital to hear from the American public, who ultimately have a stake in the future of our naval force and our national security. Therefore, we invite you to share your opinions and feedback on AUKUS with us, and to join the conversation on this topic with your fellow Americans.
• Some Republican lawmakers, such as Representative Rob Wittman, the ranking member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces. He said that the plan to sell Virginia-class submarines to Australia would “unacceptably weaken our own submarine fleet without a clear plan to replace them” and that the administration has not provided any evidence that the submarine industrial base can handle the additional workload. Click here to review additional detail.
• Some defense analysts, such as Bryan Clark, a former Navy strategist and senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. He said that selling submarines to Australia would reduce the number of attack submarines available to the U.S. Navy and that the Navy should prioritize building its own next-generation attack submarine (SSN-X) before exporting it. Click here for additional detail.
Some of the groups and individuals who are concerned about U.S. technology getting into the wrong hands are:
• Some Democratic lawmakers, such as Senator Edward Markey, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He said that he was “deeply concerned” about the potential for nuclear proliferation and leakage of sensitive technology as a result of the AUKUS deal and that he would seek assurances from the administration that it would not undermine the global nonproliferation regime. Click here for additional detail.
• Some former U.S. officials, such as Richard Armitage, a former deputy secretary of state under George W. Bush. He said that he was “very nervous” about sharing nuclear propulsion technology with Australia and Britain and that he feared that it could be compromised by China or other adversaries. Click here for additional detail.
The AUKUS deal, which involves supplying Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, has sparked a heated debate among various stakeholders in the U.S. and abroad. Some of them have expressed opposition or concern about the deal, based on different reasons and perspectives. For example, some Republican lawmakers, such as Representative Rob Wittman, argue that the deal would weaken the U.S. submarine fleet and industrial base, without a clear plan to replace the submarines sold to Australia. Some defense analysts, such as Bryan Clark, suggest that the deal would reduce the availability of attack submarines for the U.S. Navy and that the Navy should prioritize building its own next-generation submarine (SSN-X) before exporting it. Some Democratic lawmakers, such as Senator Edward Markey, are worried about the potential for nuclear proliferation and leakage of sensitive technology as a result of the deal and seek assurances from the administration that it would not undermine the global nonproliferation regime. Some former U.S. officials, such as Richard Armitage, are nervous about sharing nuclear propulsion technology with Australia and Britain and fear that it could be compromised by China or other adversaries.
We will continue to monitor and report on this topic as it unfolds. We invite you to follow along and read more reports and studies on this topic as we delve deeper into this important and timely issue. We also welcome your feedback and suggestions as we seek to inform and engage our members and friends on behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy. The time to act is now. Stay tuned for more updates soon.
USS Bougainville (LHA 8) image credit Ingalls Shipbuilding
Launch and Historical Significance On October 6, 2023, Ingalls Shipbuilding launched the USS Bougainville (LHA 8), the Navy’s third America-class amphibious assault ship, from its floating dock into the Pascagoula River. This was a major milestone for the ship, which is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2025. The ship is named after Bougainville Island, where U.S. Marines fought a fierce battle against Japanese forces during World War II.
The Growing Need for Amphibious Capabilities Recent events, like the evacuation challenges in Sudan and the aftermath of a massive earthquake in Turkey and Syria, have highlighted the urgent need for more available amphibious capabilities. In Sudan, for instance, the Marines couldn’t deploy an amphibious ready group to evacuate trapped Americans, underscoring a critical gap in readiness.
Enhanced Amphibious Capabilities The USS Bougainville is not just another ship in the Navy’s fleet. It is a game-changer for the Navy’s amphibious capabilities, as it is the first ship in the America class to be built with a well deck. This vessel can launch and recover landing craft and amphibious vehicles, crucial for missions like the one needed in Sudan.
The Debate on Fleet Size The Navy and Pentagon are currently debating the ideal number of amphibious ships. The recent incidents, coupled with the shifting geopolitical landscape, particularly regarding China, highlight the significance of this debate. As of now, the Navy has 31 amphibious ships, a number that some, including the Marine Corps, consider to be the bare minimum. However, plans indicate a potential reduction below this number by fiscal 2024.
Aviation and Aircraft Support, and Ingalls Shipbuilding’s Crucial Role The USS Bougainville also has a larger flight deck than its predecessors, the USS America (LHA 6) and the USS Tripoli (LHA 7). Decisions about the future of amphibious ships have significant implications for defense contractors like Ingalls Shipbuilding. If the Pentagon decides against buying more amphibious ships, this could affect Ingalls’ production line directly.
Ingalls Shipbuilding launched the USS Bougainville (LHA 8)
The Broader Implications Beyond pure numbers, there’s a debate about the evolving role of amphibious ships. While they retain their warfighting capabilities, they are increasingly used for training with partners, disaster response, and citizen evacuations. This dual role, both in war and peace, underscores their importance in the Navy’s fleet.
Conclusion The USS Bougainville will honor the legacy of its namesake island and its heroes by serving as a versatile platform for peace and freedom around the world. As the world grapples with complex security challenges, the debate over amphibious capabilities will continue, with ships like the USS Bougainville at the center of the discussion.
The unmanned surface vessel Ranger transits the Pacific Ocean during Integrated Battle Problem (IBP) 23.2, Sep. 15, 2023. US Navy Photo
Japan Welcomes the US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’: A Showcase of Unmanned Maritime Technology and Strategy
Why this matters • The US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’ is in Japan to test and demonstrate its unmanned vessels. These ships can operate autonomously or remotely, with advanced sensors and weapons. They can also link with other Aegis vessels, creating a networked force multiplier. #GhostFleet #Aegis #USNavy • Japan welcomes the US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’, a program that aims to integrate unmanned vessels into its fleet. These ships are equipped with the Aegis combat system and the SM-6 interceptor missiles. They can perform various missions, such as ISR, EW, MCM, and ASW. #GhostFleet #Aegis #USNavy • The US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’ arrives in Japan for testing and demonstration purposes. These unmanned vessels are designed to operate autonomously or remotely, with minimal human intervention. They are part of the US Navy’s efforts to maintain a strong presence and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region. #GhostFleet #IndoPacific #USNavy
To the esteemed members and subscribers of the Americans for A Stronger Navy,
Our nation’s security is a matter of collective pride and responsibility. A significant portion of this duty is understanding the complexities and dynamics between our armed forces and the industries that support them.
The relationship between the Navy and the defense industry is pivotal in this regard. In this article, we explore this intricate bond, highlighting its challenges and explaining its significance to all Americans and our mission.
Why This Matters to Americans and to Our Mission
The Navy serves as a beacon of our nation’s might, guarding our seas and ensuring our interests remain secure. But behind this force lies a complex network of collaborations, decisions, and strategies involving various stakeholders, most notably the defense industry.
To truly fortify our Naval capabilities, this partnership must be not just functional but exceptional. At the heart of the Americans for a Stronger Navy’s mission is the endeavor to ensure that this relationship is productive, transparent, and efficient.
Del Toro on the Essence of Partnerships
Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, has frequently emphasized the significance of industry partnerships in strengthening the Navy. “I know what it takes to build a warship,” he remarked, shedding light on the intricate nature of defense contracts and collaborations.
Del Toro’s firsthand experience in shipbuilding has given him a deep appreciation for the teamwork between the government and industry players. “It’s an example of how America’s best can come together to build these tremendous platforms,” he observed, highlighting the symbiotic relationship that ultimately benefits national and economic security.
The Challenges for the Navy
Budget Constraints: Fiscal restrictions challenge the Navy to strike a balance between acquiring cutting-edge technology and ensuring value for money. Rapid Technological Changes: The pace of tech advancements means the Navy must ensure new innovations integrate seamlessly with existing systems. Bureaucratic Processes: Lengthy procurement procedures can potentially hamper the Navy’s preparedness.
The Challenges for the Industry
Understanding Navy Requirements: The defense industry must constantly adapt to the Navy’s evolving and specific needs. Financial Risks: High initial costs with no certain returns can be a significant burden. Security Protocols: While critical, stringent security guidelines can pose challenges to industry partners.
Role of Organizations in Strengthening the Partnership
External organizations play a pivotal role in nurturing and amplifying this relationship. Their contributions include:
Educating Both Parties: Through seminars and workshops, ensuring synergy between the Navy and industry. Facilitating Communication: Promoting open dialogue to preempt misunderstandings and encourage seamless collaborations. Advocacy: Championing policies and practices that benefit both the Navy and its industry partners.
A Personal Note from Bill Cullifer, FounderAmericans for a Stronger Navy
“At the core of our ethos at the Americans for A Stronger Navy is the understanding that a robust Navy translates to enhanced safety and prosperity here at home.
Clarity and focus are our guiding principles. We strive to hone in on the essentials, especially in the procurement process, weeding out redundancies, stripping away non-essentials, and bypassing unnecessary overhead.
This perspective isn’t just about clarity; it’s about potential cost-savings, ensuring our Navy receives the best without undue expenses.”
Conclusion
In our commitment to enhancing public understanding and fostering dialogue about naval strength and its significance, the Americans for A Stronger Navy proudly underwrites a range of educational initiatives.
These resources serve as a bridge between the Navy, the defense industry, and the public, underscoring the importance of partnerships. The ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power Podcast Series’ provides insights into how these partnerships can shape the future of naval capabilities.
Introduction: The seas are vast, and for centuries, their dominance has dictated the fate of nations. Today, naval superiority is not just about mastering the waves but also the skies above them. With the recent announcements regarding the U.S. Navy’s next-generation fighter program, the horizon looks promising. This blog will explore the strides being made in the realm of naval aviation, illuminating how the advancements not only echo the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy but also how they stand as a testament to our nation’s commitment to fortifying its defense.
Summary: The U.S. Navy is ushering in a new era of air dominance with the progression of its secretive next-generation fighter program, now moving from concept refinement to design maturation. With leading aerospace giants vying for contracts, this move signifies a leap towards cutting-edge naval air capabilities, blending technological innovation with robust strategy.
Key Takeaways:
Design Progression: The Navy’s next-gen fighter program has transitioned into the design maturation phase, marking a pivotal step in its development.
Major Contenders: Aerospace stalwarts, including Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman, are contending for the airframe contracts, while GE Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney are eyeing the engine contracts.
Integration with Other Programs: The Navy’s initiative parallels the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform, hinting at a unified vision for air superiority.
Operational Focus: The F/A-XX program prioritizes operational reach and capacity, suggesting a comprehensive approach to tackle advanced threats from great distances using state-of-the-art weapons and communication systems.
Significant Funding: Highlighting its importance, the Pentagon allocated $11.5 billion for fiscal 2023-27 to the F/A-XX program, making it one of the top research and development priorities.
Conclusion: In an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape, a stronger Navy is not just desirable, it’s imperative.
As we witness these advancements in naval air capabilities, we are reminded of the Navy’s enduring dedication to protect our shores and uphold our maritime dominance.
By supporting such endeavors, we not only back our servicemen and women but also fortify the nation’s defensive pillars.
For those reading, consider this an invitation to be part of this journey. Stand with the Americans for a Stronger Navy, and together, let’s ensure that our nation remains unyielding, both on the seas and in the skies above.
