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.
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 recent actions in the Red Sea underscore the indispensable role of naval power in ensuring the security of international waterways. The coalition’s efforts to disrupt Houthi capabilities demonstrate the importance of maintaining a formidable maritime presence to protect global trade routes and uphold international maritime law.
The Need for a Stronger Navy
The challenges faced in the Red Sea highlight the ongoing need for a stronger navy, capable of projecting power, deterring aggression, and safeguarding the principles of freedom of navigation upon which global commerce depends. A robust U.S. naval force is not just a pillar of national defense; it’s a cornerstone of global stability and economic prosperity.
Why This Matters
The Red Sea is a strategic chokepoint in global trade, connecting the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal to the Indian Ocean via the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Any disruption in this area can have significant repercussions on global trade, energy supplies, and economic stability. The recent increase in Houthi attacks on commercial and naval vessels not only poses a direct threat to those at sea but also undermines international maritime law and global security.
Joint International Response
In a concerted effort to protect shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the U.S. and the U.K., alongside Australia, Bahrain, Denmark, Canada, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, executed precision strikes on 36 Houthi targets across 13 locations in Yemen. This action was a direct response to over 30 attacks by the Houthis on maritime vessels since mid-November.
Targeted Strikes for Maritime Security
The coalition’s strikes focused on degrading the Houthis’ ability to launch further attacks, targeting their weapons storage, missile systems, launchers, air defense systems, and radars. These measures are crucial for disrupting the Houthis’ capabilities, thereby ensuring the safety of international and commercial vessels traversing the Red Sea.
Ensuring Freedom of Navigation
The importance of these operations extends beyond immediate security concerns, aiming to preserve the principle of freedom of navigation. The recent actions, including the defensive strike against a Houthi anti-ship cruise missile and the engagement of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by U.S. forces, underscore the coalition’s commitment to maintaining open and safe international waterways.
Why Americans Should Care
The security of the Red Sea affects not just regional stability but also has direct implications for the United States. A significant portion of global trade, including energy supplies, passes through this region. Ensuring its security directly supports the U.S. economy and global standing. Moreover, these operations highlight the value of international partnerships and the U.S.’s role in leading and supporting global security initiatives.
Conclusion
The recent coalition strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen represent a critical step in ensuring the security of the Red Sea and, by extension, the stability of global trade routes. It is a stark reminder of the importance of naval power and international cooperation in addressing global challenges. As Americans, recognizing and supporting our nation’s efforts in these endeavors is essential for our national and economic security.
The Red Sea, a vital artery for global trade, faces increasing threats from Houthi rebels in Yemen. These threats put millions of tons of cargo and countless innocent lives at risk. However, the US Navy, through its unwavering commitment and advanced capabilities, stands as a guardian of this critical waterway.
Houthi Escalation and US Response:
Recent Attacks: The Houthis have intensified attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, raising concerns about maritime security and economic stability. These attacks threaten the free flow of trade, impacting vital resources like food and fuel.
US-UK Strikes: In response, the US and UK launched precision strikes against Houthi targets associated with missile and surveillance capabilities. These actions, conducted with support from allies, aimed to disrupt Houthi attacks and deter future aggression.
USS Laboon, USS Carney (DDG-64) and USS Gravely (DDG-107) and F/A-18 Super Hornets: At the forefront of this mission stands the USS Laboon and USS Carney (DDG-64) and USS Gravely (DDG-107), a guided-missile destroyers patrolling the Red Sea alongside F/A-18 Super Hornets from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. These powerful assets demonstrate the US Navy’s commitment to regional security and freedom of navigation.
Guided-missile destroyers USS Carney (DDG-64) and USS Gravely, (DDG-107) fired an unspecified number of Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles at the Houthi targets in Yemen while the Super Hornets used Joint Direct Attack Munition against the targets according to U.S. Centcom.
Key Takeaways:
Heightened Tensions: The Red Sea remains a volatile region with ongoing threats from the Houthis. Continued vigilance and proactive measures are crucial to ensure the safety of maritime traffic.
US Leadership: The US Navy plays a pivotal role in maintaining regional stability and safeguarding global trade. Its presence and robust capabilities deter adversaries and assure allies.
Multifaceted Approach: Addressing the complex situation in the Red Sea requires a multifaceted approach. The US Navy’s actions go hand-in-hand with diplomatic efforts and partnerships to de-escalate tensions and find lasting solutions.
Why America Should Care:
Economic Security: The Red Sea carries approximately 10% of the world’s trade, including vital resources for the US and its allies. Disruptions to this trade route could have significant economic consequences.
National Security: A secure Red Sea is crucial for US national security interests. Unimpeded maritime trade ensures the timely delivery of military supplies and facilitates cooperation with regional partners.
Global Stability: The US Navy’s role in the Red Sea contributes to international security and stability. A peaceful and navigable Red Sea benefits all nations reliant on this critical waterway.
Conclusion:
The US Navy’s presence in the Red Sea is not just a symbol of American strength, but a commitment to global security and prosperity. Through its advanced capabilities, unwavering resolve, and partnerships, the Navy safeguards vital trade routes and protects innocent lives. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we recognize and appreciate the dedication of our sailors and the critical role they play in securing the Red Sea for America and the world.
USS Gravely (DDG 107) sailing in the Arabian Gulf December, 2023
In a concerning development confirmed by the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), Iranian-backed Houthi militants launched an anti-ship cruise missile towards the Red Sea on January 30, 2024, at approximately 11:30 p.m. Sanaa time. This aggressive action targeted the USS Gravely (DDG 107), a guided-missile destroyer conducting operations in the area. The swift and effective response of the USS Gravely’s advanced defensive systems successfully intercepted and neutralized the missile, averting any potential harm to the vessel and its crew.
This incident brings to light the persistent threats posed by Houthi militants to naval operations and the safety of commercial shipping in the Red Sea, an essential corridor for international trade. The employment of sophisticated weaponry by the Houthis, supported by Iran, marks a notable escalation in regional security challenges, emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance and readiness among naval forces.
The Americans for a Stronger Navy applauds the professionalism and adeptness of the USS Gravely’s crew in addressing this immediate threat. Such events underscore the vital necessity of sustaining a potent and technologically superior navy to safeguard against unprovoked hostilities.
However, this episode also highlights a critical issue facing our naval forces: the challenge of maintaining a sufficient number of ships to support routine deployments, manage crisis situations like the one in the Red Sea, and provide necessary downtime for maintenance, repairs, and training for both ships and sailors. The current operational demands on our fleet reveal a stark reality—we have too few ships to fulfill our global commitments and respond effectively to emergent crises.
To address this gap, the Americans for a Stronger Navy is advocating for the expansion of our fleet. Building a larger navy would enable a more flexible and resilient rotational deployment cycle, ensuring that we can meet both routine and crisis-driven operational demands while also prioritizing the well-being and readiness of our ships and their crews.
As we continue to monitor the evolving situation, we urge the public to grasp the importance of these incidents and the critical role played by the US Navy in securing maritime pathways against adversarial actions. The Americans for a Stronger Navy is dedicated to championing policies and allocating resources that bolster our naval capabilities, ensuring the safety and security of international waters.
We stand in solidarity with our naval servicemembers, who confront these perils with unwavering bravery and commitment, and we reiterate our support for their mission to safeguard our nation’s security and ensure the unimpeded flow of commerce across the globe’s oceans.
As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I/we stand firmly with the views expressed by Cropsey, particularly regarding the critical need for a coherent strategy in the Middle East and the indispensable role of a formidable naval force in the eastern Mediterranean, the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Persian Gulf.
The Indispensable Role of Naval Power
Naval power has long been the cornerstone of our national defense and international influence. Our navy has been protecting free trade since the beginning of the republic during wars against the Barbary pirates, a quasi-state actor not unlike the Houthis attempting to close the Red Sea to commerce in the present day. Our Navy not only secures vital trade routes that underpin the global economy but also serves as a potent deterrent against adversaries who might seek to destabilize regions critical to our interests. The recent events in the Middle East, as highlighted by Cropsey, underscore the urgency of bolstering our naval capabilities to respond effectively to emerging threats and maintain a balance of power that favors peace and stability.
A Coherent Strategy for the Middle East
The challenges we face in the Middle East are complex and multifaceted. They require not just military might but a comprehensive strategy that encompasses diplomatic efforts, alliances, and a deep understanding of the regional dynamics. Cropsey’s call for a coherent approach to the region resonates with our advocacy for a strategy that integrates naval strength with broader diplomatic initiatives, ensuring a more stable and secure environment conducive to our interests.
The Need for Decisive Leadership and Investment
Our current predicament in the Middle East, characterized by a lack of clarity and commitment, highlights the necessity for decisive leadership and a unified national approach towards defense and foreign policy. Cropsey’s critique of the present administration’s handling of the situation serves as a reminder of the consequences of inaction and indecision. As such, we advocate for significant investment in our Navy, not only to modernize our fleet but to expand our capabilities to meet the demands of an increasingly complex global landscape. The current fleet of less than 300 ships is not enough to sustain deployed forces in the Indo-Pacific, Mediterranean Sea, and the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. The nation needs that larger and more capable fleet to both defend key chokepoints like the Bab al Mandeb strait, and also ensure that ships and sailors are not extended on deployment, as the Ford carrier strike group had to be in order to meet the mission in the Eastern Mediterranean.
A Unified Call to Action
In agreement with Cropsey, we at StrongerNavy.org call upon our members, friends, and policymakers to recognize the urgency of the situation. It is imperative that we support policies and initiatives that strengthen our Navy and ensure it remains capable of protecting our freedoms, securing our interests, and contributing to global stability.
Let us unite in our commitment to a stronger Navy, one that is fully equipped to navigate the challenges of the 21st century and beyond. Our security, our prosperity, and our place in the world depend on it.
Together, we can forge a future that upholds the principles of freedom, peace, and stability that our great nation stands for.
Sincerely Bill Cullifer, Founder- Americans for a Stronger Navy
Helicopters from the aircraft carrier Eisenhower engaged four Houthi small boats on Dec. 31, eliminating three and killing the boats’ crews. (MC2 Keith Nowak/Navy)
Introduction:
Welcome back to our ongoing discussion on the evolving landscape of global naval affairs. In this installment, we build upon our previous explorations — from the threats posed by Houthi missiles and drones in the Red Sea, affecting both global trade and the U.S. Navy’s operations (Houthi Missiles and Drones Threaten Red Sea Shipping), to the unique challenges the U.S. Navy faces in the strategically critical Red Sea and Suez Canal regions (How the US Navy Is Facing New Challenges in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal). We have also previously examined the role of ships like USS Carney in maintaining regional stability (USS Carney Defends Regional Stability in the Red Sea), and delved into understanding America’s warfighting navy priorities (Understanding America’s Warfighting Navy Priorities). Today, we turn our attention to the recent incident in the Red Sea involving the attack on the Zografia ship, to further understand its implications for U.S. naval operations and global maritime security.
The Red Sea Incident: A Brief Overview:
On January 16, 2024, the Red Sea bore witness to a troubling event. Yemen’s Houthi group claimed responsibility for attacking the Zografia ship, a vessel reportedly heading to Israel. This attack prompted a swift response from U.S.-U.K. warships, signaling the heightened tensions in one of the world’s most crucial shipping lanes. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of maritime geopolitics.
The Rising Threats in Naval Warfare:
The U.S. Navy faces an array of modern threats, including armed drones, sophisticated cruise missiles, and anti-ship ballistic missiles. These encounters in the Red Sea are not just isolated incidents; they offer invaluable data and experience, shaping the U.S. Navy’s strategy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region where maritime tensions continue to rise.
China’s Military Buildup: A Major Concern:
China’s People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force represents a formidable challenge to U.S. forces in the Pacific. With the capability to launch thousands of missiles over vast areas, the U.S. could potentially face overwhelming odds in intercepting mass missile attacks. This threat necessitates a reevaluation and strengthening of American defensive strategies in the region.
Adapting to Modern Warfare:
In response to these emerging threats, the U.S. Navy is exploring innovative defense tactics. Concealing the movement of forces, misdirecting enemy reconnaissance, and blinding surveillance systems are crucial for defending against mass missile salvos.
The U.S. Navy’s Role in Global Commerce Protection:
The U.S. Navy’s responsibility extends beyond mere military engagement; it is vital for ensuring the uninterrupted flow of global commerce. As Brad Bowman of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies highlights, America’s status as a maritime and trading power is intrinsically linked to the free movement of maritime commerce. This role is essential for maintaining American prosperity and security.
Conclusion:
The attack on the Zografia ship in the Red Sea is a clear indicator of the evolving nature of naval warfare and the complex challenges faced by the U.S. Navy. It underscores the importance of adapting to new threats while continuing to protect global maritime commerce. As we navigate these troubled waters, the need for vigilance and strategic innovation in naval defense has never been more critical.
Today, we are privileged to be joined by Bryan Clark, a Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute.
Mr. Clark is a renowned expert in naval operations, electronic warfare, autonomous systems, military competitions, and wargaming. His extensive background includes distinguished service as a former U.S. Navy officer, analyst, and consultant.
Bryan Clark’s contributions to the field of naval warfare and strategy are substantial, demonstrated through his insightful reports and articles, including notable works like “Unalone, Unafraid: A Plan for Integrating Uncrewed and Other Emerging Technologies into U.S. Military Forces”.
In this session, Mr. Clark will share his invaluable perspectives on the current and future challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. Navy in the 21st century.
With a keen focus on the escalating competition and rivalry from global adversaries such as China, Russia, and Iran, he will discuss strategies for the U.S. Navy to maintain and enhance its edge in terms of size, capability, readiness, innovation, and technology.
Additionally, Mr. Clark will address the crucial aspect of strengthening cooperation and coordination with allies and partners, particularly in strategically significant regions like the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. His insights will shed light on the vital role of the U.S. Navy in ensuring the freedom and security of the seas and the international order.
Photo shows the dhow transporting Iranian weapons to Houthi forces in Yemen. Photo: U.S. Central Command
A Perspective for Americans for a Stronger Navy
In the ever-evolving landscape of global maritime security, the U.S. Navy remains a pivotal force in maintaining the safety and order of international waters. The recent U.S. Navy operation, reported by Fox News offers a compelling example of this critical role.
A Decisive Operation in the Arabian Sea
On January 11, 2024, U.S. Navy SEALs aboard the USS LEWIS B PULLER, supported by helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), executed a complex night-time boarding of a dhow near the coast of Somalia. This operation, as detailed by news outlets resulted in the seizure of Iranian-made ballistic and cruise missile components intended for Houthi forces in Yemen. This significant interdiction not only disrupts the plans of those seeking to destabilize the region but also safeguards innocent mariners and vital shipping lanes.
The High Stakes of Maritime Security
The seized weapons, which include propulsion, guidance, and warheads for medium-range ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles, have been employed by the Houthis in their attacks against international merchant ships in the Red Sea. This seizure marks the first of its kind since the beginning of Houthi attacks against merchant ships in November 2023 and the first seizure of Iranian-manufactured advanced missile components by the U.S. Navy since November 2019. This operation underlines the Navy’s crucial role in enforcing international law and UN Security Resolution 2216.
The Cost of Vigilance
Tragically, this operation also involved the loss of two brave U.S. Navy SEALs, as reported by U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM). Their sacrifice is a stark reminder of the risks our service members face in securing our seas and the importance of supporting our naval forces.
The Broader Context: Iran’s Involvement
As news reports, the operation sheds light on Iran’s continued shipment of advanced lethal aid to the Houthis, a clear violation of U.N. Security Resolution 2216 and international law. This situation highlights the broader geopolitical challenges in the region and the need for a strong naval presence to counter such destabilizing activities.
Moving Forward
As members and friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we must advocate for a well-equipped and robust naval force. The recent operations by the USS LEWIS B PULLER are a testament to the Navy’s commitment to global maritime security. Let us continue to support our Navy in its crucial mission to maintain peace and stability on the high seas.
A combat-loaded F/A-18C taxis to the catapult aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.
In a significant escalation of military action, the U.S. Navy, in coordination with the U.K., has conducted a series of targeted strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen. This action, reported by Heather Mongilio of USNI News, comes as a direct response to the Houthis’ continued aggression against commercial shipping in the Middle East.
Strikes Across Air, Surface, and Subsurface:
The offensive involved a diverse array of military assets:
Air Force strike fighters from a base in the Middle East and Super Hornets from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) participated.
Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles were launched from naval ships in the Red Sea and potentially from the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN-728).
The strike occurred around 2:30 a.m. local time, closely following a Houthi missile attack in the Gulf of Aden.
U.K.’s Involvement:
U.K. Secretary of State for Defence Grant Shapps confirmed on social media that four Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4s conducted precision strikes on two key Houthi military targets in Bani and Abbs, Yemen. These sites were instrumental in the Houthis’ drone and missile operations.
U.S. Strike Details:
The U.S. targeted 60 locations, aiming at munition depots, command nodes, and systems critical to the Houthis’ drone and missile capabilities. This was part of a concerted effort to degrade their ability to threaten maritime security.
International Support:
The operation was supported by Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, highlighting a unified stance against threats to international navigation.
No Immediate Houthi Response:
As of the evening of January 12, there has been no reported retaliation from the Houthis. The strikes are separate from Operation Prosperity Guardian, which focuses on defending commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
U.S. Defense Secretary’s Statement:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized that these actions are meant to disrupt the Houthis’ ability to jeopardize global trade and mariner safety. He stated, “Today’s coalition action sends a clear message to the Houthis that they will bear further costs if they do not end their illegal attacks.”
Context of the Attacks:
The Houthis have been launching attacks since October 19, 2023, with the U.S. and allies sending a clear warning to cease such actions. Despite these warnings, the Houthis have continued their attacks, including on U.S. and coalition military vessels.
U.K. Prime Minister’s Statement:
U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the Houthi actions as destabilizing and dangerous, reiterating the U.K.’s commitment to freedom of navigation and the free flow of trade.
Conclusion:
This coordinated response by the U.S. and U.K. signifies a strong stance against threats to international shipping and stability in the region. The situation remains dynamic, and further developments will be closely monitored and reported.
Dear Members and Friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy,
Introduction: We bring to your attention a significant development in maritime security that directly impacts our advocacy for a robust naval defense. As reported by Luis Martinez and Morgan Winsor on ABC News (January 12, 2024), the US and UK have launched large-scale retaliatory strikes against Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen.
Background of the Conflict: For months, the Houthi militants, backed by Iran, have endangered commercial shipping in the Red Sea with repeated attacks. In a decisive response, the US military, supported by the UK and other allies, executed airstrikes targeting multiple Houthi positions in Yemen.
Details of the Retaliatory Strikes: These extensive airstrikes involved fighter jets and Tomahawk cruise missiles from Navy surface ships and the USS Florida, an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine. This action reflects a concerted effort by the US and UK to safeguard vital maritime routes.
Leadership Statements: President Joe Biden described these strikes as a “defensive action,” emphasizing their necessity in protecting international maritime vessels and maintaining freedom of navigation. Similarly, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin affirmed the US’s right to self-defense and readiness for further protective actions if needed.
Takeaways:
The strikes underscore the critical role of naval power in ensuring global maritime security.
This action demonstrates the US’s commitment to defending international waterways against threats.
It highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing regional security challenges.
Notable quotes
President Biden: “These strikes are in direct response to unprecedented Houthi attacks… jeopardizing trade, and threatening freedom of navigation.”
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin: “The United States maintains its right to self-defense and, if necessary, we will take follow-on actions to protect U.S. forces.”
Conclusion: These developments affirm the need for a strong and responsive naval force, capable of protecting national interests and maintaining global maritime security. We, at Americans for a Stronger Navy, remain dedicated to advocating for robust naval defense policies that ensure the safety and stability of international waters.
