Peace Through Strength – Community Driven – Membership Supported
Category: Naval Technology
If you are interested in Naval Technology and how it shapes the U.S. Navy and its mission, you will enjoy reading this blog category. Here you will find articles, interviews, stories, and opinions on various topics related to naval technology, such as the latest developments, innovations, challenges, and opportunities. You will also learn about the history and importance of naval technology and how it has enabled the Navy to protect American interests and defend the country. Whether you are a naval professional or a technology enthusiast, you will find something informative and engaging in this blog category.
The U.S. Navy is rapidly advancing its unmanned systems program, particularly in the Pacific Ocean, to counter China’s growing threat. This blog post, based on an article by Patrick Tucker in Defense One, highlights the key developments and implications for the future of naval warfare.
Why This Matters:
The potential deployment of “hundreds of thousands” of drones in the Pacific has significant ramifications for regional security, technological warfare, and the future of naval combat.
Takeaways:
Pacific Focus: The U.S. Navy is prioritizing drone development in the Pacific, primarily to deter China from attacking Taiwan.
Large-Scale Deployment: Experiments with unmanned systems in the Middle East and South America are paving the way for large-scale drone deployments in the Pacific.
Logistical Challenges: Integrating and managing tens of thousands of drones presents logistical hurdles that require innovative solutions.
New Capabilities: Drones offer advantages in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and potentially offensive operations.
AI Integration: The Joint Fires Network aims to leverage AI and drones for faster target identification and engagement.
Competition with China: Both the U.S. and China are racing to develop and deploy advanced drone technology, intensifying the technological arms race.
Conclusion:
The U.S. Navy’s drone program marks a significant shift in naval warfare, potentially transforming how future conflicts are fought. This blog serves as a springboard for further discussion and engagement within the Americans for a Stronger Navy community.
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!
Hello, members and friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy. We have some exciting news to share with you today. The Navy has received its first Orca Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV) from Boeing, following a series of tests at sea. This is a major milestone for the Navy’s unmanned undersea capabilities, and we are proud to support this innovative and game-changing program.
What is Orca and why is it important?
Orca is a new class of autonomous submarine that can perform long duration critical missions to achieve undersea maritime dominance in changing environments and contested waters. Orca is based on Boeing’s Echo Voyager, a prototype XLUUV that began at-sea testing in 2017 and was a precursor to the Navy’s Orca XLUUV competition. Echo Voyager has spent over 10,000 hours operating at sea and transited hundreds of nautical miles autonomously.
Orca is important because it provides the Navy with a new and versatile tool to enhance its undersea warfare capabilities and to deter and defeat potential adversaries. Orca can operate in areas that are too dangerous, too distant, or too denied for manned submarines, and can extend the Navy’s reach and persistence in the maritime domain. Orca can also complement and augment the Navy’s existing and future manned and unmanned undersea assets, and provide a cost-effective and scalable solution for the Navy’s undersea needs.
What are the implications for the Navy?
The delivery of the first Orca XLUUV is a significant achievement for the Navy and Boeing, and a testament to their innovation, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. The Navy plans to acquire five more Orca XLUUVs in the future, and to gradually ramp up the quantities and capabilities of these vehicles. The Navy will also conduct further testing and evaluation of Orca, and apply the lessons learned to improve the reliability and performance of the system.
The Navy’s acquisition of Orca XLUUVs is part of a broader effort to develop and deploy a variety of unmanned systems for the fleet, including unmanned surface vessels and unmanned aerial systems. The Navy’s vision is to integrate these systems into a networked and distributed force that can operate across all domains and domains, and to leverage the advantages of autonomy, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to enhance the Navy’s decision-making and effectiveness.
The Navy’s investment in Orca XLUUVs and other unmanned systems reflects the Navy’s recognition of the changing security environment and the technological developments that are eroding the U.S. military advantages. The Navy faces growing challenges and threats from China and Russia, who are developing and deploying advanced anti-access/area denial capabilities, such as submarines, missiles, and cyber weapons, to challenge the U.S. presence and influence in the Indo-Pacific and Europe. The Navy also faces emerging and evolving challenges from rogue regimes, such as Iran and North Korea, and violent non-state actors, such as terrorists and pirates, who pose threats to the U.S. interests and allies in the Middle East and Africa.
The Navy’s adoption of Orca XLUUVs and other unmanned systems demonstrates the Navy’s commitment and ability to adapt and innovate to meet these challenges and to maintain its maritime superiority. The Navy’s use of Orca XLUUVs and other unmanned systems also reaffirms the Navy’s role and responsibility as the “keepers of the peace” in a turbulent and uncertain world, and as a vital partner and leader in the international community, working with allies and partners to uphold the rules-based order and to promote peace and security.
What others are saying
“This has been a very busy year for the XLUUV team and their hard work is culminating in delivery of the Navy’s first-ever unmanned diesel-electric submarine. We look forward to continued success with our Boeing teammates in fielding this important capability for the warfighter.” – Capt. Scot Searles, US Navy Unmanned Maritime Systems Program Manager
“The Orca XLUUV is a multi-phased accelerated acquisition featuring a full and open competition to industry to design, fabricate, test and deliver systems to the US Navy. The navy selected the best value of price and technical capabilities.” – Alan Baribeau, US Naval Sea Systems Command spokesperson
“Orca XLUUV is a game-changing capability that will provide the Navy with a long-range, long-endurance, multi-mission undersea vehicle that will complement and augment the Navy’s undersea force structure.” – Rear Adm. Casey Moton, US Navy Program Executive Officer for Unmanned and Small Combatants
Conclusion
We at Americans for a Stronger Navy congratulate the Navy and Boeing on the delivery of the first Orca XLUUV, and we look forward to seeing more of these vehicles in the fleet. We believe that Orca XLUUV is a critical and revolutionary capability that will enhance the Navy’s undersea warfare and deterrence posture, and that will support the Navy’s strategic plan and its 30-year shipbuilding plan.
We urge Congress and the public to support the Navy’s acquisition and development of Orca XLUUV and other unmanned systems, and to provide the necessary funding and oversight for their implementation. We also encourage the Navy to continue to improve its performance and accountability, and to foster a culture of innovation and excellence.
We also commend the Navy for its continued engagement and cooperation with its allies and partners, and for its dedication and service to the nation and the world. We stand with the Navy, and we thank them for their service and sacrifice.
On this Christmas Day, amidst the joy and warmth of the season, we pause to remember another kind of sacrifice: the unwavering dedication of the men and women who stand watch on the vast oceans, guardians of our freedom and keepers of the peace.
Bill Cullifer, Founder
These brave sailors, our Navy, dedicate their lives to a mission both noble and perilous. They sail amidst the ever-present dangers of the seas, facing not just the fury of nature, but the potential threats that could disrupt the fragile tapestry of global peace.
Our Commitment to Naval Power:
This Christmas, as we reflect on the values of peace and security, we at Americans for a Stronger Navy reaffirm our dedication to supporting the vital role of the U.S. Navy. Through our rich and diverse blog content, featuring expert insights and in-depth analysis, we provide a valuable resource for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the naval domain.
Our blog delves into timely topics like the Navy’s recent success in testing unmanned surface vessels, proving its commitment to cutting-edge technology even as we celebrate Christmas. We also dive deep into emerging challenges like those faced in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, reminding us that the Navy’s vigilance never sleeps, even during holidays. From China and Russia to the Indo-Pacific and the Aleutian Islands, we explore the spectrum of naval news and stories, featuring expert insights on technology, innovation, readiness, budget, personnel, and history. Join the conversation on how we can best support its vital mission.p
Charting the Course:
Our educational series, “Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power,” delves deeper into critical trends and developments shaping the future of global maritime security. Explore webinars, podcasts, and articles to discover how the Navy adapts and innovates in the face of long-term competition and emerging threats. Stay tuned for ongoing updates and join the conversation on this crucial topic.
Charting the Course features insightful discussions on a variety of topics, including:
The evolving geopolitical landscape and its implications for naval power.
Technological advancements and their impact on naval warfare.
The importance of international cooperation in maintaining maritime security.
The challenges and opportunities of recruiting and retaining a diverse and talented naval workforce.
Yet, they do not falter. They stand firm, a silent bulwark against aggression, ensuring the safe passage of trade, protecting the innocent, and safeguarding the very foundations of a world that yearns for harmony.
This Christmas, as we gather with loved ones, consider the silent sentinels on distant ships. Remember their families, who face the holidays with an aching absence, their hearts intertwined with the vast expanse of the sea.
And let us pledge, not just our gratitude, but our unwavering support. For a stronger Navy is not just a fleet of steel and technology; it is a force for good in the world, a beacon of hope that deters conflict and fosters cooperation.
That is why we, at Americans for a Stronger Navy, dedicate ourselves to advocating for the resources and capabilities our Navy needs. In our first year, we have made strides, raising awareness, building bridges, and amplifying the voices of those who understand the crucial role the Navy plays in securing our future.
We invite you to join us at StrongerNavy.org, and discover ways you can become an advocate for peace through strength. Lend your voice, your time, your resources, and together, let us build a legacy of unwavering support for the keepers of the peace.
This Christmas, let us offer not just prayers, but action. Let us honor the Navy, not just with words, but with a commitment to ensuring they have the tools they need to safeguard our freedoms and pave the way for a brighter, more peaceful world.
Merry Christmas, and may the new year bring renewed hope, enduring peace, and a Navy strong enough to protect it all.
The U.S. Navy is one step closer to realizing its vision of a hybrid fleet that combines manned and unmanned ships. In a recent test, the Navy demonstrated that a diesel generator for Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) operations can run for 720 hours without human intervention or maintenance.
This is a critical requirement for the Large Unmanned Surface Vessel (LUSV) program, which aims to develop and acquire low-cost, high-endurance, modular USVs that can carry various payloads, such as missiles, sensors, or electronic warfare systems.
What Was the Test About?
The test was mandated by Congress in the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, which directed the Navy to achieve the 720-hour milestone before the LUSV could proceed into formal development.
The test included 100 hours of pre-testing and 720 hours of demonstration phase, during which no human intervention and no preventative or corrective maintenance on the equipment was allowed.
The test was conducted by Bollinger and Carter Machinery on behalf of Caterpillar in Chesapeake, Virginia. The Navy’s Program Executive Office for Unmanned and Small Combatants (PEO USC) and the Unmanned Maritime Systems Program Office (PMS 406) oversaw the successful test completion. The test validated that the 1550 kw Caterpillar 3512C model engine demonstrated sufficient mechanical reliability to support the requirements of an unmanned ship to operate for 30 days.
Why Does It Matter?
The test is a key milestone for the Navy’s unmanned surface vessel programs and allows the Navy to move forward with developing and acquiring the LUSV, which is envisioned to be greater than 200 ft. in length with a full load displacement of approximately 1,500 tons.
The LUSV will deliver adjunct missile magazine capacity to the Fleet as part of the Navy’s Distributed Maritime Operations concept, which seeks to leverage a more distributed and networked force to counter potential adversaries.
The LUSV is intended to be a low-cost, high-endurance, modular USV that can employ a variety of payloads, depending on the mission. The LUSV could provide additional firepower, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or mine countermeasures capabilities to the Fleet, without putting human lives at risk or requiring extensive logistics support.
What Are the Implications for the Navy?
The successful test of the diesel generator for USV operations is a significant step towards achieving the Navy’s goal of a hybrid fleet that integrates manned and unmanned ships.
The LUSV program is one of the Navy’s large UV programs that pose a number of oversight issues for Congress, including issues relating to the analytical basis for the more distributed fleet architecture; the Navy’s accelerated acquisition strategies for these programs; technical, schedule, and cost risk in the programs; the proposed annual procurement rates for the programs; the industrial base implications of the programs; potential implications for miscalculation or escalation at sea; the personnel implications of the programs; and whether the Navy has accurately priced the work it is proposing to do on the programs .
The Navy is also pursuing other unmanned surface vessel programs, such as the Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV) and the Ghost Fleet Overlord program, which aim to develop and test smaller, more agile, and more autonomous USVs that can perform various missions, such as scouting, countermine, anti-submarine, or electronic warfare
These programs are expected to complement the LUSV program and enhance the Navy’s capabilities and flexibility in the future.
The Navy’s unmanned surface vessel programs are part of a broader effort to leverage new technologies and concepts to address the challenges and opportunities posed by the changing strategic environment.
Unmanned vessels, according to their advocates, help solve both the problems of budget constraints and anti-access and area-denial threats.
They are ostensibly cheaper than manned ships, so the Navy can build a larger fleet under constrained budgets. And, since unmanned vessels do not risk human life, they can be deployed within those areas where A2/AD capabilities pose a threat .
However, unmanned vessels also come with a host of unknown risks and challenges, such as technical reliability, cyber vulnerability, legal liability, ethical dilemmas, command and control issues, and human-machine interaction.
These issues will require careful consideration and experimentation before unmanned vessels can be fully integrated into the Navy’s operations and doctrine.
Moreover, unmanned vessels are not a silver bullet that can solve all the Navy’s problems.
They still require manned support and protection, and they may not be able to perform all the functions and roles that manned ships can, such as diplomacy, deterrence, or humanitarian assistance. Unmanned vessels are not a replacement for manned ships, but rather a supplement and an enabler for them.
The Navy’s unmanned surface vessel programs are an ambitious and innovative attempt to transform the Navy’s fleet and capabilities in the face of emerging threats and opportunities. The successful test of the diesel generator for USV operations is a major achievement that paves the way for the development and acquisition of the LUSV, a key component of the Navy’s hybrid fleet vision.
However, the Navy still faces many challenges and uncertainties in implementing and integrating unmanned vessels into its operations and doctrine.
The Navy will need to continue to test, evaluate, and refine its unmanned surface vessel programs, as well as to address the various oversight issues and concerns raised by Congress and other stakeholders.
Unmanned vessels are the future of the Navy, but they are not the only future. The Navy will need to balance its investments and efforts between manned and unmanned ships, as well as between sea control and sea denial, to achieve a fleet that is capable, credible, and adaptable.
Today, on Pearl Harbor Day, we at Americans for a Stronger Navy pause to remember and honor the sacrifices made on December 7, 1941. This day, a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, reminds us of the bravery and resilience of those who faced unimaginable adversity. As we reflect on the events of that day, we reaffirm our commitment to remembering our past and learning from it.
The attack on Pearl Harbor shaped the course of World War II and transformed the future of naval power. It’s a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, preparedness, and the continuous evolution of naval strategy. As we pay tribute to the heroes of that day, their legacy inspires us to ensure such history does not repeat itself.
In this spirit, we are proud to introduce our educational series, ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power.’ Hosted by me, Bill Cullifer, this series connects the enduring lessons of World War II to today’s naval challenges. Starting today, we embark on an eight-week journey exploring how the echoes of history inform our present and future naval strategies.
Through ‘Charting the Course,’ we aim to deepen our understanding of naval history and its impact on contemporary naval power. Join us as we discuss various topics from the evolution of shipbuilding to the role of AI in naval operations, all while keeping the lessons of Pearl Harbor and WWII at the forefront.
For more details on the series and to access our featured resource ‘Echoes of History: Steering the Future,’ visit StrongerNavy.org. Follow us on social media for updates and insights.
Let’s honor the past and responsibly steer our future. Together, we remember, we learn, and we grow stronger.
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.
PteroDynamics’ drone can fold its wings to fly like a fixed-wing aircraft in forward flight. (PteroDynamics)
Bill Cullifer, Founder
Hello, and welcome to the Americans for a Stronger Navy blog, where we share the latest news and insights on the U.S. Navy’s mission and operations, and how they affect our national security and interests. My name is Bill Cullifer, and I am a proud founder and supporter of this organization, which advocates for a stronger and more capable U.S. Navy that can deter and defeat any adversary, if needed and can also secure and sustain peace for ourselves and our posterity.
Today, I want to talk to you about a new and exciting technology that the U.S. Navy is exploring, and how it can enhance its logistics and operations in the global maritime domain. I am talking about the Transwing airborne drone, which is a type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that can take off and land vertically, and fly horizontally with high speed and efficiency. The Transwing drone is designed and produced by PteroDynamics, a company based in Los Angeles, California.
The U.S. Navy is always looking for new and innovative ways to enhance its capabilities and to overcome its challenges. One of the latest solutions that the U.S. Navy is exploring is the Transwing drone, a unique and versatile unmanned aerial vehicle that can transform from a fixed-wing aircraft to a rotary-wing aircraft in mid-air. The Transwing drone can also be used for humanitarian, commercial, and recreational purposes, such as delivering supplies, monitoring the environment, and capturing aerial footage.
The Transwing drone has recently demonstrated its potential and performance by completing a series of sea trials with the U.S. Navy. The Transwing drone successfully launched and recovered from the deck of the USNS Burlington, a Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport ship, sailing near Key West, Florida. The Transwing drone also successfully landed on a moving target, which is a critical skill for naval operations.
The Transwing drone is a potential game-changer for the U.S. Navy, as it offers a number of advantages over conventional drones. Some of the advantages are:
• The Transwing drone can take off and land vertically, like a helicopter, which means it does not need a runway or a catapult. This makes it more flexible and adaptable to different environments and situations.
• The Transwing drone can also fly horizontally, like a plane, which means it can fly faster and farther than a helicopter. This makes it more efficient and effective for long-distance missions and operations.
• The Transwing drone can carry up to 500 pounds of cargo, which is more than most drones of its size. This makes it more useful and practical for delivering essential supplies and equipment to remote or inaccessible locations.
• The Transwing drone can operate autonomously or remotely, which means it can reduce the workload and the risk for human operators and pilots. This makes it more reliable and safe for complex and dangerous tasks and scenarios.
Transwing drone is designed and produced by PteroDynamics, a company based in Los Angeles, California.
According to Tim Whitehand, the vice president of engineering at PteroDynamics, the company that developed the Transwing drone, “Participating in The Hybrid Fleet Campaign Event brought us closer to our goal of providing the U.S. Navy with a flexible and scalable shore-to-ship, ship-to-ship, and ship-to-shore automated cargo delivery capability.”
However, the Transwing drone is not without its challenges and drawbacks. Some of the challenges are:
• The Transwing drone is still in its early stages of development and testing, which means it may face some technical issues and glitches that could affect its performance and functionality. For example, the Transwing drone may have difficulties in maintaining stability and control during the transition between the fixed-wing and the rotary-wing modes.
• The Transwing drone is also subject to some operational risks and uncertainties, such as weather conditions, air traffic, and enemy threats. For instance, the Transwing drone may encounter strong winds, turbulence, or interference that could hamper its flight and navigation. The Transwing drone may also be detected, tracked, or attacked by hostile forces that could compromise its mission and security.
• The Transwing drone may also raise some ethical concerns and legal implications, such as the accountability, the responsibility, and the authority of the human operators and the decision-makers. For example, the Transwing drone may pose some dilemmas and conflicts in terms of the use of force, the protection of civilians, and the respect of sovereignty. The Transwing drone may also require some regulations and standards to ensure its compliance and compatibility with the existing laws and norms.
The Transwing drone is a new and powerful solution for naval logistics and operations, as it combines the best features of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. The Transwing drone has shown its capabilities and its potential by completing a series of sea trials with the U.S. Navy, and by demonstrating its ability to launch and recover from a ship, and to land on a moving target.
The Transwing drone also offers a number of advantages over conventional drones, such as flexibility, efficiency, utility, and reliability.
The Transwing drone is still in its development and testing phase, and it will require more research and evaluation to overcome its challenges and to optimize its performance. The Transwing drone is also a source of inspiration and motivation for the next generation of naval leaders, as it shows them the importance and relevance of the U.S. Navy’s mission and strategy, and how they can contribute and make a difference.
With a heritage rooted in my service as a US Navy Destroyer sailor and as the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I carry a profound appreciation for the indispensable role of the U.S. Navy in safeguarding our nation’s security and prosperity. Having stood stem to stern with sailors of diverse backgrounds, I’ve been a witness to their commitment and the sacrifices they make for our country’s well-being. My dedication to this esteemed American institution is unwavering, and I am resolute in my commitment to maintain our Navy as the most formidable maritime force globally.
It is encouraging to note that GOP candidates Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley in last night’s debates have both recognized the need for a “stronger Navy.” Their collective acknowledgment underscores the urgency of reinforcing our naval capabilities in the face of escalating threats from strategic adversaries like China, Russia and Iran.
Echoing Eaglen’s sentiments, I contend that an agile adaptation to the shifting maritime theater is essential. Investing in the right mix of technology, forging stronger alliances, and galvanizing public support for naval endeavors are critical steps towards this goal.
As we acknowledge the challenges outlined by Eaglen and others, we at Americans for a Stronger Navy understand the gravity of these concerns and the imperative of a strategic response.
The Path Forward
To address the multi-faceted nature of these challenges, a comprehensive strategy encompassing innovation, force structure assessment, shipyard modernization, and strengthened alliances is necessary:
Strategic Innovation: The Navy should lead in deploying advanced technologies like unmanned systems and artificial intelligence, amplifying the capabilities of our current fleet and personnel.
Force Structure Assessment: Regular evaluations of our force composition will ensure that we have the optimal blend of high-end assets and versatile platforms for varied operational demands.
Shipyard Modernization: Upgrading our shipbuilding facilities and fostering workforce proficiency is crucial for augmenting our shipbuilding capacity and minimizing maintenance delays.
Budget Certainty: It’s imperative that Congress affords the Navy a predictable and substantial budget, mitigating the inefficiencies of financial uncertainty.
Alliances and Partnerships: Fortifying our bonds with allies and encouraging their naval modernization endeavors will be pivotal for a robust collective defense.
Holistic Defense Strategy: The Navy must be integrated within a broader defense architecture that encompasses air, space, cyber, and land forces.
Education and Outreach: Fostering strong connections with educational entities will nurture the future craftsmen and leaders essential for naval supremacy.
Investing in Its People: The backbone of the U.S. Navy is its sailors. To maintain a competitive edge, we must invest in their professional growth and personal well-being. This entails comprehensive training programs, educational opportunities, career development paths, and supportive services that ensure our sailors are not only prepared to meet the demands of modern warfare but also feel valued and invested in. By doing so, we cultivate a workforce that is resilient, skilled, and deeply committed to the Navy’s mission. Our sailors deserve the best support a nation can offer, from cutting-edge training systems to robust family and health services, ensuring they are mission-ready and their families are well cared for.
Public Engagement
To cultivate enduring support for a formidable Navy, we must enhance public engagement through:
Awareness campaigns that illuminate the Navy’s role and capabilities.
Educational programs to broaden knowledge of the Navy’s contribution to national security.
Opportunities for public involvement to support the Navy’s mission.
Concluding Thoughts
In essence, we urge a united front of policymakers, industry leaders, and citizens to embrace a strategic vision that preserves the U.S. Navy’s preeminence on the global stage. With discerning evaluations and consistent investment, we can nurture a balanced, mighty naval force ready to counter any threat and uphold our national interests for future generations.
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.
