Peace Through Strength – Community Driven – Membership Supported
Category: Global News Watch
Global news is important because it helps people to be informed, engaged, and aware of what is happening in the world. It can promote understanding, facilitate action, and lead to positive change.
Introduction: In the vast expanse of global waters, maritime security plays an indispensable role in fostering stability, ensuring the free flow of commerce, and preserving national interests. As advocates for a robust and capable naval force with the “Americans for a Stronger Navy,” we consistently emphasize the need for nations to collaborate in the maritime domain. The recent move by ASEAN nations to conduct their first joint naval exercise near the contentious waters of the South China Sea serves as a testament to the value of cooperative maritime endeavors and presents an important lesson for naval forces worldwide
Analysis of the Southeast Asia Joint Navy Drills Near the South China Sea
The commencement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) first joint naval exercise represents a significant and potentially transformative moment in regional geopolitics, particularly in the context of the South China Sea. Here’s why:
Unified ASEAN Front: Historically, ASEAN nations have navigated the complexities of their relationships with major global powers, such as the U.S. and China, often individually rather than as a unified bloc. This first-ever joint exercise, specifically involving only ASEAN nations, suggests a stronger, more unified approach to regional security challenges.
Strategic Timing & Location: The choice of conducting drills in Indonesia’s Natuna waters, which lie close to the South China Sea, is noteworthy. Given the territorial disputes and increasing Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea, these drills communicate a clear message: ASEAN nations are prepared to collaboratively address regional security challenges.
Holistic Approach to Security: The ASEAN Solidarity Exercise isn’t just a demonstration of military prowess. By incorporating search and rescue operations, humanitarian relief, and disaster prevention, ASEAN is emphasizing its commitment to broader regional stability and the well-being of its citizens.
Civil-Military Synergy: The involvement of civilian groups in disaster prevention and humanitarian relief reflects an intention to foster civil-military collaboration. This synergy can significantly amplify the efficacy of such exercises and underscores the bloc’s holistic approach to regional challenges.
Implicit Signal to China: While ASEAN has been careful not to overtly antagonize China, the drills, especially being the first of their kind, can be perceived as a subtle yet firm signal. The bloc is demonstrating that while they seek peaceful and cooperative relations, they also prioritize their collective security and sovereignty.
Boosting Interoperability: Enhancing interoperability is crucial for any collective defense or response initiative. By conducting these joint exercises, ASEAN nations are laying the groundwork for smoother coordination in the face of future crises, whether they be natural disasters or man-made conflicts.
In conclusion, the ASEAN Solidarity Exercise is more than a routine military drill. It is a strategic, well-timed demonstration of ASEAN’s evolving role in regional geopolitics, emphasizing collective security, diplomacy, and a unified front in the face of potential adversities.
Conclusion: The ASEAN Solidarity Exercise, as observed by the “Americans for a Stronger Navy,” embodies the very principles we champion: unity in the face of challenges, the holistic approach to maritime security, and the seamless integration of civil and military assets for a common purpose. As ASEAN nations pave the way for a more cooperative and unified regional maritime strategy, it offers a blueprint for other naval forces around the world. We believe that such exercises underscore the importance of a well-prepared and collaborative naval force in safeguarding not just regional, but global interests. The seas connect us all, and in these waters, unity and strength will always chart the course for a safer, more prosperous future.
From September 24-28, 2023, immerse yourself in the profound legacy of the Tin Can Sailors Association at the iconic Lord Baltimore Hotel. Established in 1976, the association stands as a touchstone for those cherishing our naval heritage, spotlighting the pivotal role of destroyers, backing the current destroyer Navy, and nurturing camaraderie among members.
Amidst the backdrop of engaging discussions, shared memories, and deep appreciation for our naval roots, we’re elated to share that Dale A. Jenkins, renowned Naval historian and author of “Diplomats and Admirals,” will be in attendance. An Advisory Board Member for the Americans for a Stronger Navy, Dale is poised to discuss his insights on the upcoming podcast series, ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’. While not presenting formally, his insights promise to add depth to discussions about the present challenges and future trajectories of naval power.
Reunion highlights include:
A welcome luncheon, business meeting, banquet dinner, and memorial service.
A scenic dinner cruise on the Inner Harbor.
Guided tours of Baltimore’s landmarks, such as Fort McHenry National Monument and USS Constellation.
A journey through history at the B & O Railroad Museum.
To partake in this momentous event, reach out to Annmarie at 508-677-0515 for an information packet. For registration specifics, a preliminary itinerary, and hotel booking links, visit the association’s official website.
Join us in Baltimore, celebrating our shared naval past and looking forward to our collective future! 🚢
The global maritime landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with China rapidly emerging as a dominant naval power. The implications of this shift have profound consequences for the United States and its position in the world. Recent revelations from a leaked US Navy briefing slide provide alarming insights into the trajectory of China’s naval capabilities and ambitions.
Key Takeaways
China’s Overwhelming Shipbuilding Capacity
China’s shipyards boast a capacity of over 23.2 million tons, a staggering 232 times greater than the US’s capacity, which is less than 100,000 tons.
About 70% of China’s shipbuilding revenue is derived from naval production, while nearly 95% of American shipbuilding revenue is attributed to naval production.
China currently commands the world’s largest navy with more than 355 vessels, including an array of combatant ships, submarines, and other essential naval assets.
By 2025, China’s naval fleet is anticipated to encompass 400 ships and is further projected to expand to 440 ships by 2030. In contrast, the US naval fleet is expected to hover between 305 and 317 ships.
China’s fervent naval expansion is fueled by its strategic aspirations to establish itself as a global superpower and challenge the US’s supremacy in the Indo-Pacific realm.
The sheer magnitude of China’s shipbuilding prowess and its burgeoning naval fleet poses grave challenges to the US’s strategic interests and its longstanding dominance in the Indo-Pacific region. In the face of such rapid naval ascendance by China, it’s imperative for the United States to adopt robust measures to bolster its naval capabilities. As members and subscribers of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, the call to action is clear: Advocate for greater investments in the US Navy to ensure it remains a formidable force in the years to come.
Image IconForeign Minister Tobias Billström, background, listens, during a press briefing together with US congressmen Michael McCaul, centre and Gregory Meeks, in Stockholm, Friday, Sept. 1, 2023. The United States House Foreign Affairs chair says that a partnership of the Russian and Chinese leaders worries him, saying: “We have never seen a threat this large-scale to Europe and the Pacific, I would argue, since World War II.” Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, said Friday during a trip to Sweden with a U.S. Congressional Delegation that an alliance of Beijing and Moscow poses a big challenges to the free world. (Henrik Montgomery/TT News Agency via AP) The Associated Press
Hello, and welcome to the blog of the Americans for a Stronger Navy.
We are a group of patriotic citizens who support and appreciate the U.S. Navy and its mission to protect our nation and its interests around the world.
In this blog, we will share with you news, stories, facts, and opinions about the Navy and its amazing ships and sailors.
Today, we want to talk about a recent development that caught our attention: the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee chair calling the Russia-China alliance the biggest threat since World War II. This is a serious and alarming statement that reflects the growing challenges and dangers that our Navy and our allies face in the global arena.
What did the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee chair say?
The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee chair is Rep. Michael McCaul, a Republican from Texas. He made his remarks during a visit to Sweden on September 1, 2023, where he met with the Swedish foreign minister and other officials. He was part of a U.S. congressional delegation that also visited the Netherlands and discussed issues such as support for NATO and Ukraine, ways to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine, and how to confront shared threats from China.
McCaul said that a partnership between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin worried him, adding, “We have never seen a threat this large scale to Europe and the Pacific, I would argue, since World War II.” He said that an alliance between Beijing and Moscow poses a big challenge for the free world in this great power competition that we find ourselves in.
Why is the Russia-China alliance a threat?
The Russia-China alliance is a threat because it combines two authoritarian regimes that have aggressive and expansionist ambitions in their respective regions and beyond. Both countries have been violating international norms and rules, undermining democratic values and human rights, and challenging the U.S. and its allies’ interests and security.
Some examples of their threatening behavior are:
• Russia’s invasion and annexation of Crimea in 2014, its ongoing support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, its cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns against Western countries, its interference in elections and political processes, its military buildup and provocations near NATO borders, its use of chemical weapons against dissidents, and its development of new nuclear weapons and hypersonic missiles.
China’s militarization of disputed islands and reefs in the South China Sea, its coercion and intimidation of neighboring countries over maritime claims, its violation of Taiwan’s airspace and sovereignty, its crackdown on Hong Kong’s autonomy and democracy, its genocide against Uyghurs and other minorities in Xinjiang, its theft of intellectual property and trade secrets from Western companies, its suppression of free speech and dissent at home and abroad, and its rapid modernization of its military capabilities and space program.
The Russia-China alliance is also a threat because it enables both countries to support each other economically, politically, diplomatically, militarily, and technologically. They have increased their cooperation in various fields such as energy, trade, infrastructure, defense, security, intelligence, science, innovation, culture, media, education, health, and environment. They have also coordinated their positions on global issues such as Iran’s nuclear program, North Korea’s nuclear weapons, Syria’s civil war, Venezuela’s crisis, Myanmar’s coup, Afghanistan’s situation, climate change, human rights, multilateralism, and reform of international institutions.
The Russia-China alliance is especially a threat because it challenges the U.S.-led international order that has maintained peace and stability since World War II. They seek to undermine the credibility and effectiveness of NATO, the European Union, the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, the World Health Organization, and other organizations that promote cooperation and dialogue among nations. They also seek to create alternative blocs and platforms that serve their interests and values such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), the BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) group
How does the Navy respond to the Russia-China alliance?
The Navy is well aware of the threat posed by the Russia-China alliance and is taking various measures to counter it and protect our interests and allies. Some of these measures are:
• Strengthening our alliances and partnerships with like-minded countries that share our values and vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific and a secure and prosperous Europe. The Navy conducts regular exercises, operations, exchanges, and consultations with our allies and partners to enhance our interoperability, coordination, and cooperation. Some examples of these activities are the Malabar naval exercise with India, Japan, and Australia; the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise with 26 nations; the Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) exercise with 18 NATO and partner nations; the Sea Breeze exercise with Ukraine and 31 other nations; the Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) in the South China Sea; and the Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) in Eastern Europe.
• Increasing our presence and readiness in the regions where Russia and China are most active and assertive. The Navy deploys its ships, aircraft, submarines, and personnel to strategic locations such as Japan, Guam, Bahrain, Spain, Italy, Romania, Poland, Norway, and Iceland. The Navy also rotates its assets through temporary deployments such as the Carrier Strike Group (CSG), the Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), the Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), and the Surface Action Group (SAG). The Navy also maintains a continuous nuclear deterrent patrol with its ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and a global undersea dominance with its attack submarines (SSNs).
• Modernizing our capabilities and platforms to match or exceed those of Russia and China. The Navy invests in research, development, acquisition, and innovation of new technologies, systems, weapons, and concepts that will give us an edge over our adversaries. Some examples of these initiatives are the Columbia-class SSBN program, the Constellation-class frigate program, the F-35C Lightning II fighter jet program, the MQ-25 Stingray unmanned aerial refueling tanker program, the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) anti-ship cruise missile program, the Hypersonic Glide Body (HGB) weapon system program, the Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) concept, and the Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) network.
What can we do to support the Navy?
As members and subscribers of #AmericansforaStrongerNavy, we can do many things to support the Navy and its mission to counter the Russia-China alliance. Some of these things are:
• Educating ourselves and others about the threat posed by the Russia-China alliance and the importance of maintaining a strong and capable Navy. Stay informed by subscribing to the blog and newsletter. We can also share these sources with our friends, family, colleagues, and social media followers.
• Advocating for adequate funding and resources for the Navy to sustain its current operations and modernize its future capabilities. We can contact our representatives in Congress and urge them to support the Navy’s budget requests and legislative priorities. We can also sign petitions, join campaigns, attend rallies, write letters, or make phone calls to express our views and opinions.
• Appreciating and honoring our Navy sailors who serve our country with honor and excellence. We can send them letters, cards, care packages, or donations to show them our gratitude and support. We can also volunteer for organizations that assist Navy families, veterans, or wounded warriors. We can also attend or host events that celebrate or commemorate Navy achievements or milestones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we hope you learned something new and interesting about the Russia-China alliance and how it affects our Navy and our nation. We also hope you feel inspired and motivated to support our Navy in its efforts to counter this threat and protect our interests and allies. We thank you for reading this blog post and for following #AmericansforaStrongerNavy. Please leave your comments below or contact us if you have any questions or feedback. Stay safe and stay Navy!
China’s Latest S. China Sea Map screen shot from Youtube
As members and subscribers of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, you are well aware of the importance of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region, where the United States and its allies and partners can uphold the rules-based order and protect their national interests.
The South China Sea, a vital waterway for global trade and security, is at the heart of this region.
However, China’s aggressive and expansive claims to sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, as well as its militarization of disputed features, pose a serious threat to the peace and stability of the region, as well as to the freedom of navigation and overflight that the United States and other countries enjoy under international law.
On Monday, August 28, 2023, China released a new map of its infamous U-shaped line, also known as the nine-dash line, that covers about 90% of the South China Sea.
This map, which was published by the Ministry of Natural Resources, is the latest in a series of official maps that China has issued since 1947 to assert its sovereignty over the sea and its islands, reefs, and resources. The map also includes Taiwan, which China considers as a renegade province, and parts of India’s Arunachal Pradesh state, which China claims as part of Tibet.
The map has been met with strong rejection and protest by the other claimants in the South China Sea, namely Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. These countries have their own claims to sovereignty over various features and zones in the sea, based on historical evidence, geographic proximity, or international law.
They have also challenged China’s U-shaped line as baseless and illegal under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which defines the rights and obligations of coastal states in their territorial seas, exclusive economic zones (EEZs), and continental shelves. In 2016, an arbitral tribunal constituted under UNCLOS ruled in favor of the Philippines in its case against China, declaring that China’s U-shaped line had no legal basis and that China had violated the Philippines’ sovereign rights in its EEZ.
China rejected the ruling as null and void and continued to assert its claims and activities in the sea.
The United States, which is not a party to UNCLOS but abides by its provisions as customary international law, has also expressed its opposition to China’s U-shaped line and its actions in the South China Sea.
The United States has declared that it has a national interest in preserving freedom of navigation and overflight in the sea, as well as in supporting its allies and partners in defending their rights and interests.
The United States has also conducted regular freedom of navigation operations (FONOPs) and presence operations in the sea to challenge China’s excessive maritime claims and to demonstrate its commitment to upholding international law.
The United States has also provided diplomatic, legal, and security assistance to the other claimants in the sea to enhance their capabilities and resilience.
The release of China’s new map is not only a provocation to the other claimants in the sea, but also a challenge to the United States and its vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The map shows that China is not willing to compromise or cooperate on resolving the disputes in the sea peacefully and in accordance with international law. Instead, China is determined to impose its will and dominance over the sea and its resources, regardless of the rights and interests of other countries.
The map also shows that China is not deterred by the United States’ presence and actions in the sea, but rather seeks to test and undermine them.
The Americans for a Stronger Navy believes that China’s new map is unacceptable and unacceptable. We urge our government to continue to stand firm against China’s aggression and expansionism in the South China Sea.
We call on our government to increase its diplomatic engagement with our allies and partners in the region to coordinate our responses and strategies. We also call on our government to enhance our naval presence and capabilities in the region to deter further Chinese provocations and to defend our national interests.
We believe that a strong navy is essential for ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.
A Chinese naval Z-9 helicopter prepares to land aboard the People’s Liberation Army (Navy) frigate CNS Huangshan (FFG-570) as the ship conducts a series of maneuvers and exchanges with the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104) in the South China Sea June 16, 2017. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Byron C. Linder
Introduction: Hello to our esteemed members and subscribers! We bring you the latest developments from the South China Sea, shining light on China’s concerning activities and highlighting the unwavering support of the US Navy in the region.
China’s Growing Assertiveness in the South China Sea: China’s recent “aggressive behaviour” in the South China Sea, especially the use of water canons against a Philippine vessel, is causing increasing alarm. This blatant show of force not only challenges regional dynamics but underscores the importance of naval power in the face of rising threats.
US Navy’s Stance: Vice Admiral Karl Thomas, the commander of the U.S. Navy’s Seventh Fleet, has voiced concern over these provocative actions. “My forces are out here for a reason,” Thomas emphasized, signaling the US Navy’s commitment to counterbalance such regional aggressions. The Seventh Fleet, stationed primarily in Japan, boasts up to 70 ships, approximately 150 aircraft, and over 27,000 sailors, covering a vast area of 124 million square km.
Recent Incidents on the South China Sea: A significant incident unfolded on August 5th when a Chinese coast guard ship used water canons against a Philippine vessel transporting supplies to its troops. This aggressive move only deepens the fault lines between the US and China in the region.
US and Philippine Collaborative Measures: Vice Admiral Thomas and Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos of the Philippine Western Command have been in discussions to better comprehend the challenges faced by the Philippines in the South China Sea. Their collaboration aims to fortify strategies and enhance the region’s security.
China’s Territorial Claims and Militarization: China’s territorial assertions in the South China Sea have long been contentious, especially after their claims were refuted by an international tribunal in 2016. Yet, China continues to militarize artificial islands in the region, which overlap with exclusive economic zones of several Southeast Asian nations, leading to heightened tensions.
Key Takeaways:
Assertive Behavior: China’s actions in the South China Sea are becoming increasingly aggressive, challenging regional stability.
US Navy’s Dedication: The Seventh Fleet underlines the US’s commitment to ensuring peace and stability in the region.
Need for Collaboration: Dialogues between the US Navy and the Philippine Western Command signify the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing shared challenges.
Conclusion: The dynamics in the South China Sea are complex and rapidly evolving. As China intensifies its assertive actions, the role of the US Navy, along with collaborative efforts with regional allies, becomes increasingly crucial. The recent incidents underline the importance of maintaining a formidable naval presence and fostering cooperation to ensure peace and stability in the region.
In this photo released Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023, by Sepahnews of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, the Guard’s speedboats participate during a drill in the Persian Gulf. The U.S. military is considering putting armed personnel on commercial ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz, in what would be an unheard of action aimed at stopping Iran from seizing and harassing civilian vessels,
Greetings to members and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy. The Strait of Hormuz, a globally critical maritime channel, is once again in the spotlight. As reported by ABC News on August 7, 2023, more than 3,000 U.S. Marines and sailors have been swiftly deployed to the Middle East.
Their mission? To deter Iran from its growing ambitions of seizing and harassing merchant ships in the region. This pivotal move underscores the strategic and economic importance of the strait, and the lengths the U.S. is willing to go to protect it.
The Strait’s Global Significance
Economic Lifeline: This narrow passage facilitates a colossal volume of global maritime oil and gas trade daily.
The Tension Rises: The U.S. Navy has highlighted the gravity of the situation, declaring Iran’s actions a considerable “threat to … maritime security and the global economy.” Delving Into the Current U.S. Strategy
Operational Readiness: The newly deployed troops, stationed on the USS Carter Hall and USS Bataan, come well-equipped with advanced aircraft and tactical assets, reinforcing the U.S.’s commitment to this global chokepoint.
Marines Onboard: A bold move sees U.S. Marines taking positions on commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Initiated by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, this strategy aims to serve as a strong deterrent against Iranian threats.
Iran’s Increasing Aggression
Continual Harassment: Recent reports outline Iran’s alarming behavior, from seizing oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman to continually threatening maritime security since 2021. Iran Pushes Back: Not all claims go uncontested. Iranian officials attribute some of their actions to alternative motives, like responding to distress calls.
Looking Ahead: A Proactive Naval Response
Anticipated Protection: The U.S. is actively awaiting requests from commercial entities desiring protection in the region. This initiative, available voluntarily, extends to U.S.-flagged ships and those associated with American interests.
Conclusion and Advocacy
The Strait of Hormuz’s emerging challenges highlight the urgent need for a fortified naval stance. As “Americans for a Stronger Navy,” we relentlessly advocate for robust naval preparedness. Let’s champion the cause of maritime security together.
Join the Cause Subscribe and lend your support. Together, we can make a difference!
Amid the vastness of the South China Sea, an aging warship rests as a symbol of sovereignty, determination, and regional tension. This rusting relic, the BRP Sierra Madre, has inadvertently become the flashpoint of geopolitical contention between the Philippines and China. While for some it may appear as just a dilapidated warship, its importance transcends its physical condition. By understanding its past and its current role, we can appreciate the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy and the call for unity and strength across the seas.
https://youtu.be/duhNoYsqnGo
Legacy of the Sierra Madre
Summary
The South China Sea has always been a hotspot for territorial disputes. The Philippines has made a move to assert its presence by grounding the Sierra Madre, a warship with a rich history, on Second Thomas Shoal. This strategic decision was made in response to China’s increasing maritime activities, especially after the occupation of the nearby Mischief Reef. The ship, though no longer seaworthy, still holds significance as an extension of Philippines’ sovereign territory. The recent actions by the Chinese coast guard, including the use of water cannons, underline the rising tensions and the urgency to address maritime rights and sovereignty.
Key Takeaways
Legacy of the Sierra Madre: Originally a US tank-landing ship, the Sierra Madre was later acquired by the Philippines navy and has since been a symbol of the Philippines’ presence and territorial claim in the South China Sea.
Strategic Importance: The ship was grounded on Second Thomas Shoal in the late 1990s as a countermove to China’s growing dominance and occupation of nearby areas. It remains a testament to the Philippines’ resolve in upholding its maritime rights.
Recent Tensions: China’s recent aggressive actions against the Sierra Madre, including firing water cannons at Philippine vessels, reflect the escalating tension in the region.
Conclusion
The story of the Sierra Madre is not just of a ship, but of resilience, strategy, and a fight for sovereignty. As tensions rise, the importance of a stronger and unified maritime force becomes increasingly evident. We, the Americans for a Stronger Navy, stand in solidarity with our allies and urge all to recognize the importance of preserving maritime rights. We are proud to be part of a community that values the significance of these waterways, and we call upon every American to join us in bolstering our mission and securing a safer future for all.
(Aug. 7, 2023) The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) steams in formation during a photo exercise with the Italian navy Todaro-class submarine(S 527) and the first-in-class Greek navy frigate HS Elli (F 450), Aug. 7, 2023. Forces from Standing NMaritime Group 2 (SNMG 2) and the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) are conducting the Sage Wolverine series of high-end maritime training events in the Central Mediterranean Sea to increase NATO interoperability a promote regional peace and stability. (U.S.
The United States of America is a maritime nation. Its security, prosperity, and leadership depend on its ability to project power and influence across the oceans. For more than two centuries, the U.S. Navy has been the guardian of the nation’s interests and values at sea, deterring aggression, ensuring freedom of navigation, providing humanitarian assistance, and supporting global stability.However, the U.S. Navy faces unprecedented challenges in the 21st century. The rise of China as a peer competitor, the resurgence of Russia as an adversary, the proliferation of rogue states and non-state actors, and the emergence of new domains such as cyberspace and space pose serious threats to the U.S. and its allies. These challenges require a stronger navy that can operate in all domains, across all regions, and against all adversaries.
In this article, we will examine why a stronger navy is vital for the U.S., how it can enhance its capabilities and readiness, and what it can achieve in cooperation with its NATO allies. We will draw on the latest facts and analysis from credible sources, such as naval experts, military officials, and academic scholars.
Why a Stronger Navy is Vital for the U.S.
For the United States, a stronger navy is not a “want” but a “need.” Historically, it has been extremely effective at advancing U.S. national interests. It is critical to deterring foreign adversaries and maintaining prosperity, not just for the U.S., but for all nations.
A stronger navy can deter potential enemies from attacking or coercing the U.S. or its allies. By maintaining a credible presence and demonstrating superior capabilities, the U.S. Navy can signal its resolve and commitment to defend its interests and uphold international norms. A stronger navy can also prevent conflicts from escalating by providing options for de-escalation and crisis management.
A stronger navy can also ensure the free flow of trade and commerce across the world’s oceans. The U.S. Navy protects the vital sea lanes that carry more than 90% of global trade, including energy resources, food supplies, and manufactured goods. A stronger navy can also foster economic growth and development by enabling access to new markets and opportunities.
A stronger navy can also support global peace and stability by participating in multilateral operations and engagements. The U.S. Navy contributes to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, counterterrorism and counterproliferation efforts, maritime security and law enforcement activities, and capacity building and partnership initiatives. A stronger navy can also enhance interoperability and cooperation with allies and partners, especially NATO members.
How to Build a Stronger Navy
Building a stronger navy requires investing in modernization, innovation, and expansion. The U.S. Navy needs to acquire new platforms, systems, and technologies that can meet the current and future threats. It also needs to develop new concepts, doctrines, and strategies that can leverage its advantages and overcome its challenges. It also needs to grow its force structure, manpower, and readiness to sustain its presence and operations.
One of the key priorities for building a stronger navy is to increase its shipbuilding budget and accelerate its ship production rate. The U.S. Navy currently has 306 ships in its fleet, far below its peak of 594 in 1987 . The Department of Defense estimates that China has 355 ships in its fleet , many of which are increasingly capable and modern. The U.S. Navy aims to reach a fleet size of 355 ships by 2035 , but this goal faces significant fiscal and industrial constraints.
To achieve this goal, the U.S. Navy needs to invest more in shipbuilding programs that can deliver more ships faster, cheaper, and better. These programs include the Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers , which are the most advanced aircraft carriers in the world; the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers , which are the backbone of the surface fleet; the Virginia-class attack submarines , which are the stealthiest submarines in the world; and the Constellation-class frigates , which are the newest addition to the fleet.
Another priority for building a stronger navy is to embrace new technologies that can enhance its capabilities and effectiveness. These technologies include artificial intelligence , which can improve decision making and automation; hypersonic weapons , which can travel faster than five times the speed of sound; unmanned systems , which can operate autonomously or remotely; cyberwarfare , which can disrupt or defend networked systems; and space systems , which can provide communication, navigation, surveillance, and targeting support.
To leverage these technologies, the U.S. Navy needs to foster a culture of innovation and experimentation that can generate new ideas and solutions. It also needs to collaborate with the private sector, the academic community, and the international partners that can provide expertise and resources. It also needs to update its acquisition and procurement processes that can facilitate rapid and agile development and deployment.
What a Stronger Navy Can Achieve with NATO Allies
Building a stronger navy is not only a national endeavor, but also a collective one. The U.S. Navy cannot achieve its objectives alone, but only in cooperation with its NATO allies. Together, they can form a formidable force that can deter, defend, and defeat any adversary.
The U.S. Navy and its NATO allies share common interests and values in the maritime domain. They both seek to ensure the security and stability of the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, the Baltic Sea, and the Black Sea. They both face similar threats from Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, and terrorist groups. They both benefit from the free and open access to the global commons.
The U.S. Navy and its NATO allies also have a long history of cooperation and coordination in the maritime domain. They have established various mechanisms and frameworks that facilitate their interoperability and integration. These include the Standing NATO Maritime Groups , which are multinational naval forces that conduct routine patrols and exercises; the NATO Maritime Command , which is the operational headquarters that oversees all maritime activities; and the NATO Maritime Strategy , which is the guiding document that outlines the vision and objectives for the maritime domain.
The U.S. Navy and its NATO allies also conduct regular exercises and operations that enhance their readiness and effectiveness. One such exercise is Sage Wolverine , a series of high-end maritime training events that involve forces from SNMG 2 and the GRFCSG . The exercise, which began on July 31 and will end on August 15, 2023, aims to increase NATO interoperability and promote regional peace and stability .
One of the highlights of Sage Wolverine was a photo exercise that took place on August 7 in the Ionian Sea. The photo exercise featured the Greek navy frigate HS Elli (F 450), the Italian navy Todaro-class submarine ITS Scirè (S 527), and the USS Ramage (DDG 61) in formation with the Gerald R. Ford in the background . The photo exercise demonstrated the close cooperation and coordination among the participating forces .
Conclusion
The United States of America needs a stronger navy now more than ever. A stronger navy is vital for deterring foreign adversaries, ensuring freedom of navigation, providing humanitarian assistance, and supporting global stability. A stronger navy can be built by investing in modernization, innovation, and expansion. A stronger navy can achieve more by working with its NATO allies.
The Americans for a Stronger Navy is a non-profit organization that advocates for increasing the naval power of the U.S. We believe that a stronger navy is essential for protecting our nation, advancing our interests, and promoting our values. We urge our fellow citizens, our elected representatives, and our military leaders to support our cause and join our efforts.
If you want to learn more about our organization, our mission, and our activities, please visit our website at https://strongernavy.org/. Thank you for your attention and interest.
The US Navy and Marines are increasing their presence and capabilities in the Persian Gulf region amid rising tensions with Iran over its nuclear program and its attempts to seize commercial tankers.
The Pentagon has sent more than 3,000 personnel and Marines, along with the USS Bataan, an amphibious assault ship that can carry dozens of aircraft and landing craft, to join the 5th Fleet based in Bahrain.
The Marines are training to escort and protect commercial shipping from Iranian harassment and aggression, which has escalated in recent months.
The US also deployed stealth F-35 fighters and other warplanes to the region to enhance its air power and deterrence.
The US military buildup comes as the diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran have stalled, and as a UN sanctions deadline on Iran approaches in October. Iran has been enriching uranium closer to weapons-grade levels and developing new ballistic missiles that can target US ships and bases.
Iran has also been involved in a series of attacks on oil tankers and facilities in the Gulf region since 2019, which have strained its relations with its Arab neighbors and raised the risk of a wider conflict.
The US hopes that its show of force will persuade Iran to return to the negotiating table and comply with the nuclear deal, as well as to respect the freedom of navigation and security of commercial shipping in the Gulf. However, Iran has denounced the US military presence as a threat to its sovereignty and regional stability, and has vowed to continue its nuclear activities and defend its interests.
The situation remains volatile and unpredictable, as both sides are testing each other’s resolve and red lines.
For more information on this topic, you can check out these news sources: • U.S. Marines Are at the Ready to Protect Commercial Ships in the Persian Gulf • Why is US sending 3,000 Navy, Marines force to Persian Gulf? • Analysis: Buildup of American forces in Persian Gulf a new signal of worsening US-Iran conflict
About the USS Bataan
Aircraft carried Actual mix depends on the mission Standard Complement: 6 AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft or 6 F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters 4 AH-1W /Z Super Cobra /Viper attack helicopter 12 MV-22B Osprey assault support tiltrotor 4 CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopters 3–4 UH-1Y Venom utility helicopters Assault: 22+ MV-22B Osprey assault support tiltrotor Sea Control: 20 AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft or 20 F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters 6 SH-60F/HH-60H ASW helicopters
