Category: Shipbuilding News

The Americans for a Stronger Navy Fleet Forward initiative aims to support a stronger and more capable Navy. The Shipbuilding NewsWatch will provide subscribers with up-to-date news, analysis, and commentary on the latest developments in the shipbuilding industry, including new contracts, technological advances, and trends. This information will help subscribers stay informed and engaged in efforts to build a modern and effective Navy.

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The Autonomous Revolution: Naval Warfare’s Exponential Leap

Rendering of a Blue Water Autonomous ship

Introduction

The future isn’t coming—it’s already here, patrolling our oceans with no human hands on the wheel.

Personal Reflection

Bill Cullifer, onboard USS Henry B. Wilson -DDG 7 1976
Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

As someone who stood watch on a destroyer’s deck for years, I’d love nothing more than for every young American to feel the salt air, a wooden helm at their fingertips, the roll of the ship beneath their feet and the breathtaking vastness of the sea. That experience shaped my life and the life of many others that I respect and admire.

But sentiment won’t secure the future. The world has changed—and it’s time we face some hard facts.

We’re now witnessing the dawn of a radically new era in warfare. One that demands we embrace and invest in the technologies that will define the next generation of naval power.

From Science Fiction to Sea Trials

Less than a decade ago, the idea of fully autonomous warships seemed like the stuff of sci-fi. Today, the U.S. Navy’s USX-1 Defiant—a 180-foot, 240-ton vessel designed without a single human accommodation—is conducting sea trials off Washington state.

No bunks. No heads. No mess halls. Just a steel-clad, AI-powered war machine optimized purely for mission.

This isn’t incremental change. It’s an exponential leap.

The Compound Effect of Convergent Technologies

What’s driving this revolution isn’t just a single breakthrough. It’s convergence.

AI Decision-Making at Machine Speed

Ships like USS Ranger and Mariner aren’t just autonomous—they’re operational. They’ve logged thousands of miles, fired missiles, and executed missions without direct human control. Real-time, tactical adaptation is already replacing human-triggered decision trees.

Swarm Coordination Beyond Human Capability

With programs like Ghost Fleet Overlord, we’re moving toward fully integrated autonomous networks—surface, subsurface, aerial. Swarms of unmanned systems coordinating at machine speed, executing joint missions across domains.

New Physical Designs, New Possibilities

When you remove the human factor, new design freedom emerges. The NOMARS program optimizes for function over form—rapid payload reconfiguration, longer endurance, fewer constraints. Defiant doesn’t compromise. It adapts.

The Multiplication Factor

Each of these capabilities amplifies the others:

  • AI enables swarm tactics
  • Swarms generate operational data
  • That data trains the next-gen AI
  • Which enables even more sophisticated missions

The cycle is accelerating. Consider DARPA’s Manta Ray, an autonomous glider designed to “hibernate” on the seabed for months. Now picture that working in tandem with unmanned surface vessels like Defiant, and traditional submarines—all coordinating without a single sailor onboard.

The MASC Paradigm: Speed Over Paperwork

The Navy’s new Modular Attack Surface Craft (MASC) program exemplifies this exponential thinking. Instead of designing ships around specific missions, MASC creates standardized platforms that gain capabilities through containerized payloads—like naval smartphones that become powerful through modular “apps.”

With an aggressive 18-month delivery timeline and emphasis on commercial standards over “exquisite” platforms, MASC represents a fundamental shift in how the Navy acquires capability. As Austin Gray, Navy Reserve Intelligence Officer & Co-founder/CSO, Blue Water Autonomy observed: “The way Navy is approaching MASC—procuring fast, iteratively, and with focus on speed over paperwork—should offer us hope that the future of U.S. seapower is not so dim.”

This isn’t just about new ships—it’s about new thinking. MASC vessels can be missile shooters one day, submarine hunters the next, simply by swapping standardized containers. The high-capacity variant could carry 64 missiles—more firepower than many destroyers, at a fraction of the cost.

Beyond the Horizon

In 2016, Sea Hunter launched with basic navigation. By 2021, converted vessels were firing missiles. In 2025, purpose-built unmanned warships are conducting sea trials. By 2026, MASC prototypes will be delivered for fleet operations.

What’s next?

The Pentagon is backing this future with a $179 billion R&D investment focused on AI, drone swarms, and autonomous systems. The revolution isn’t limited to ships—it extends to autonomous aircraft, land vehicles, and space-based platforms.

The Inflection Point

This may be the most transformative shift in warfare since the atomic age.

But unlike nuclear weapons, which stagnated under treaties and deterrence doctrines, autonomous systems evolve constantly—learning, adapting, improving. The next five years will likely deliver breakthroughs we can’t yet fully comprehend.

We’re not just upgrading platforms. We’re creating entire ecosystems of autonomous coordination that outpace human decision-making and redefine how wars are fought—and deterred.

Welcome to U.S. Navy 3.0—a new era defined not by bigger ships, but by smarter ones.

We’ve discussed this evolution before: Navy 1.0 was sail and steel; Navy 2.0 brought nuclear power and carrier dominance. Navy 3.0 marks a transformational leap driven by artificial intelligence, autonomy, and multi-domain integration. It’s not just about replacing crewed vessels with unmanned ones—it’s about rethinking naval power from the keel up. From swarming tactics to predictive logistics and machine-speed decision-making, Navy 3.0 is our opportunity to regain the edge in a world where adversaries are building faster, cheaper, and without rules.

The Legacy Challenge

This transformation faces significant resistance. Naval culture, built around centuries of seamanship and command tradition, doesn’t easily embrace unmanned systems. The defense industrial base, optimized for billion-dollar platforms with decades-long production cycles, struggles with MASC’s 18-month timelines and commercial standards.

But operational necessity is forcing evolution. When China builds ships faster than we can afford traditional platforms, alternatives become imperatives. The question isn’t whether to change—it’s whether we can change fast enough.

The Future Is Now

This isn’t a concept. It’s not theory. It’s happening:

  • Autonomous vessels are already patrolling the Pacific
  • Underwater gliders are proving months-long endurance
  • Unmanned surface warships are rewriting the rules of naval architecture
  • Containerized missile systems are operational
  • MASC solicitations are active with near-term delivery requirements

The revolution is not ahead of us. It’s around us.

And we’ve only just left the pier.

Why Americans Should Care

Autonomous warfare isn’t just a military story—it’s a national security imperative. Adversaries like China are racing to seize the advantage in unmanned systems. Falling behind means more than losing battles—it risks losing deterrence, freedom of navigation, and geopolitical influence.

The economic implications are equally significant. Navy 3.0’s emphasis on commercial standards and distributed production could revitalize American shipbuilding, creating jobs while strengthening national security.

Implications for the Navy

To remain dominant, the U.S. Navy must rethink everything: shipbuilding timelines, training paradigms, procurement processes, and alliances. Naval power in this new era will favor speed, adaptability, and distributed lethality.

Officer career paths built around commanding ships must evolve to managing autonomous swarms. Training programs must balance traditional seamanship with algorithmic warfare. Most critically, the Navy must maintain its warrior ethos while embracing radical technological change.

A Final Word

Let’s not confuse nostalgia with readiness. The romance of the sea will always have a place in our hearts—but it won’t protect our shores.

The wooden helm and salt air that shaped naval officers for generations remain valuable experiences. But future naval leaders will find meaning in different challenges: commanding autonomous fleets, coordinating multi-domain operations, and outthinking adversaries at machine speed.

If we want peace, we must master this new domain.

It’s time to embrace it. It’s time to invest. It’s time to lead.

That’s why we launched Charting the Course: Voices That Matter—a 24-part educational series breaking down how we got here, what went wrong, and what must happen next. Our goal is simple: educate the public, connect the dots, and build the support needed to close the readiness gap before it’s too late.

Let’s roll.

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MASGA Marks a Critical Milestone—But the U.S. Navy Still Needs Urgent Industrial Surge

Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

Introduction

From Waltz’s Warning to MASGA’s Launch

On September 27, 2023, Congressman Mike Waltz published “America Needs a National Maritime Strategy,” warning that the United States lacked the shipbuilding capacity and strategic alignment needed to counter China and sustain a maritime advantage.

Nearly two years later, that warning has materialized into policy.

On April 9–10, 2025, the White House issued the executive order “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance,” launching the Maritime Action Plan and creating the new Office of Shipbuilding under the National Security Council.

Then, on July 31, 2025, South Korea’s Finance Minister confirmed the formal launch of Make America Shipbuilding Great Again (MASGA)—a $150 billion industrial partnership investing in U.S. shipyards, workforce development, and dual-use naval-commercial platforms.

What MASGA Does

MASGA is the largest public-private shipbuilding effort since the Cold War and includes:

  • Investment from South Korean giants like Hanwha Group into American yards (including the acquisition of Philly Shipyard)
  • Joint U.S.–ROK workforce training programs to close skilled labor gaps
  • New production of replenishment, patrol, and logistics vessels for both Navy and commercial use
  • Maintenance and drydock support for U.S. Navy ships on U.S. soil

It’s a big step forward—but one that must be matched with urgency.

Admiral Caudle’s Stark Warning: “We Need a 100% Industrial Surge”

On July 29, 2025, during his confirmation hearing for Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Daryl Caudle delivered a sobering message to the Senate Armed Services Committee.

To meet U.S. obligations under the AUKUS agreement—selling up to five Virginia-class submarines to Australia while sustaining our own fleet—the Navy must double its submarine output:

  • Current production: ~1.3 Virginia-class submarines per year
  • Required output: 2.3 per year

“We need a transformational improvement,” Caudle testified. “Not a 10 percent improvement, not a 20 percent—a 100 percent improvement.”

He added that international partnerships would be essential as the U.S. works to rebuild its organic capacity:

“There are no magic beans to that. The solution space must open up. We need ships today.”

Committee Chairman Roger Wicker stressed creativity, outsourcing, and urgency. Admiral Caudle agreed, calling for “an all-hands-on-deck approach.”

This is precisely where MASGA comes in.

Why MASGA Matters for the Navy

MASGA’s structure provides the kind of foreign capacity support and workforce relief Caudle explicitly called for. It aligns directly with the Navy’s urgent need for:

  • Surge production of submarines and surface combatants
  • Expanded maintenance infrastructure
  • Shipyard partnerships to relieve domestic pressure

Congressman Waltz anticipated this crisis in 2023. MASGA is the first large-scale step toward solving it.

The Broader Navy Production Challenge

Submarines aren’t the only problem. The Navy’s broader industrial needs remain acute:

  • Destroyer production has slipped behind plan; the Navy aims to buy 51 new destroyers over the next 30 years, but current yards are falling short.
  • Aircraft carriers like the USS John F. Kennedy (CVN‑79) are years behind schedule.
  • The Navy’s long-term fleet goal of 381 ships by 2042 will remain aspirational without massive industrial acceleration.

And even with MASGA, the Navy is still contending with an aging Military Sealift Command, an undersized Merchant Marine, and shipyard repair backlogs.

Modernization Means Autonomy—And We’re Behind

Modernizing the fleet doesn’t just mean more hulls—it means smarter platforms. The future of naval warfare will be shaped by autonomous surface and undersea vehicles, from uncrewed missile boats to AI-enabled minehunters and refueling drones. China is already fielding swarms of semi-autonomous systems in contested waters. Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy’s efforts under programs like the Medium and Large Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV/LUSV) remain limited by slow procurement and industrial bottlenecks. MASGA can accelerate the integration of autonomous systems by expanding modular shipbuilding capacity, repurposing civilian infrastructure, and enabling faster tech deployment across the fleet. Without autonomy, we fall behind—not just in numbers, but in survivability and battlefield adaptability.

What Must Come Next

MASGA is a launchpad, not a destination. To restore maritime power, the U.S. must:

Expand submarine production
Reach 2.3 attack subs/year by 2030. This requires labor, capital, and process modernization on a scale not seen in decades.

Accelerate surface fleet output
Ramp up destroyers, amphibious vessels, and support ships. Congress must deliver multi-year procurement and budget certainty.

Fix regulation and finance
Incentivize private capital to flow into U.S. shipyards, not Chinese ones. Close loopholes and create new maritime investment channels for Americans.

Grow the skilled workforce
Welders, naval architects, systems engineers—we need tens of thousands more. Joint international training must be paired with U.S. educational investments.

Modernize the Merchant Marine
We once had over 5,000 ships. Today, we have fewer than 80 engaged in international trade. This is a critical national vulnerability.

Closing Message: MASGA Is a Start, Not a Solution

MASGA validates the vision Mike Waltz articulated in 2023. It meets Admiral Caudle’s call for relief through allied partnerships. It aligns with the Navy’s production and readiness needs.

But China is still building. Delays persist. And the decision space for national security continues to shrink.

Let’s not wait another decade to act like a maritime power. Let’s build, now.

That’s why we launched Charting the Course: Voices That Matter—a 24-part educational series breaking down how we got here, what went wrong, and what must happen next. Our goal is simple: educate the public, connect the dots, and build the support needed to close the readiness gap before it’s too late.

Let’s move beyond slogans. Let’s build understanding, accountability, and strength—before the next crisis comes knocking.

Join us at StrongerNavy.org
Let’s roll.

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An Open Letter to America: The Future of U.S. Shipbuilding and Naval Strength

Dear Fellow Americans,

We stand at a crossroads in our nation’s history—one that will determine the future of our Navy, our national security, and the very strength of our industrial base. The question before us is clear: Should we rebuild our naval shipbuilding capabilities here at home, seek foreign assistance, or attempt a hybrid approach?

This is not just a debate about policy. It’s a decision that affects every American—from those who serve at sea to the workers who build our ships, to the families and businesses that rely on safe and open trade routes secured by the U.S. Navy.

A Crisis Decades in the Making

The United States Navy, once unrivaled, now finds itself struggling to maintain a fleet large enough to meet global threats. At the same time, our domestic shipbuilding industry has shrunk to a fraction of its former strength.

  • Fewer Shipyards: During World War II, the U.S. built a ship a day. Now, we are lucky to produce a handful of warships per year due to limited shipyard capacity.
  • Aging Repair Facilities: The few remaining naval repair yards are overburdened and outdated, leading to costly maintenance delays.
  • Worker Shortages: The skilled workforce needed to build and maintain ships has dwindled, leaving shipyards struggling to meet demand.
  • Rising Threats: China now produces more naval tonnage every year than the U.S. does in a decade. Russia and other adversaries are also modernizing their fleets.

The urgency is real. The Navy’s shipbuilding plan is behind schedule, over budget, and falling short of strategic needs. Simply put, we need more ships, more shipyards, and more skilled workers to build and sustain them.

The Debate: Build Here, Look Abroad, or Both?

President-elect Donald Trump recently suggested leaning on allies to help build U.S. Navy ships. His words have sparked a debate with far-reaching consequences.

There are three paths forward:

1. Fully Rebuild U.S. Shipbuilding Capacity (America First Approach)

  • Invest in more shipyards and repair facilities to increase production.
  • Expand apprenticeship and workforce training programs to address skilled labor shortages.
  • Modernize naval infrastructure to improve efficiency and speed of delivery.

✅ Pros: Strengthens U.S. industry, creates jobs, ensures security.
❌ Cons: Takes time, requires significant investment.

2. Use Allied Shipyards for Basic Infrastructure (Hybrid Approach)

  • Partner with allies (e.g., Japan, South Korea, Italy) to build less complex vessels while reserving warship production for U.S. yards.
  • Temporarily relieve the burden on U.S. shipyards while domestic capacity is rebuilt.

✅ Pros: Speeds up production, allows time for U.S. shipbuilding expansion.
❌ Cons: Security risks, reliance on foreign suppliers, potential job losses.

3. Fully Outsource Basic Infrastructure (Foreign Assistance Approach)

  • Contract allied nations to build support ships and basic naval infrastructure abroad.
  • Focus U.S. shipyards solely on high-end warship production.

✅ Pros: Short-term boost in fleet numbers, cost savings.
❌ Cons: Weakens U.S. shipbuilding industry, risks foreign dependency.

What’s at Stake?

No matter which path we take, one fact remains: The U.S. Navy needs more ships—and we need them faster. The growing threats on the world stage do not wait for political debates or bureaucratic delays.

America must decide:

  • Do we commit to fully restoring our shipbuilding industry, investing in shipyards, repair facilities, and workforce training?
  • Do we pursue a temporary partnership with allies to fill immediate gaps?
  • Do we accept foreign-built support ships, potentially at the cost of domestic industry?

This is not just a decision for policymakers—it is a choice for every American. The strength of our Navy is the strength of our nation.

A Call to Action

We need a national shipbuilding strategy that prioritizes American security, economic resilience, and industrial strength.

  • Expand our domestic shipbuilding capacity.
  • Modernize and build more repair facilities.
  • Train and recruit more American workers to sustain naval readiness.
  • Ensure the Navy has the fleet it needs to protect global commerce and national security.

History shows us that when America builds, America wins. The decision before us will shape the Navy for generations to come. Let’s make sure it’s a future built on strength.
Americans for a Stronger Navy
StrongerNavy.org. Join the discussion on X.com/strongernavy

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When America Ships, America Wins

Wake up, America—our destiny depends on it.

Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

Introduction

In our ongoing pursuit to strengthen America’s sea power, we must confront the challenges facing both our Navy and the broader maritime domain. Over the weekend, I immersed myself in key publications—from Captain Brent D. Sadler’s impassioned article, The Nation Needs a Shipbuilding Revolution (February 2025 Proceedings), to insightful analyses on platforms like War on the Rocks and legislative presentations regarding the SHIPS for America Act. In addition, I revisited the history and nuance of Naval versus Maritime Statecraft.

The conclusion is clear: our nation’s strength at sea relies on a transformative, integrated approach. In short, When America Ships, America Wins.

Why This Matters

For too long, the U.S. Navy has operated under a narrow warfighting mandate—a legacy of policies from the 1950s that prioritized combat readiness above all else. Yet history teaches us that true American sea power has always depended on two interlinked capabilities: a modern, formidable fleet and an engaged maritime domain that underpins commerce, diplomacy, and humanitarian efforts.

As Rep. Garamendi recently stated,
“Today, less than 200 oceangoing ships fly the American flag; the SHIPS for America Act will empower our shipyards and marine merchants to uphold our country’s status as a leader in the maritime industry.”

Meanwhile, Senator Mark Kelly emphasized,
“Strengthening America’s shipbuilding capacity and revitalizing our commercial maritime industry is critical to both our national security and economic resilience.”

These words capture the urgent need to reinvest in our naval statecraft while simultaneously enhancing our broader maritime strength.

Our Journey to Clarity
Throughout my review, several key insights emerged:

Dissecting the Sources: Captain Sadler’s article calls for a revolution in U.S. naval shipbuilding. He writes, “For too long, needed investment in and action to bolster our nation’s maritime industrial base have been elusive. That luxury is no longer feasible given the threat from a revanchist and massively invested Chinese military.” His words, combined with insights from War on the Rocks and historical reflections, remind us that our Navy must once again balance combat readiness with essential peacetime missions.

Clarifying Terminology: We now clearly distinguish between “naval statecraft”—focused on rebuilding our fleet and shipbuilding capacity—and “maritime statecraft,” which encompasses the broader economic, diplomatic, and logistical roles at sea. Recognizing that these two concepts are mutually reinforcing helps create a coherent strategic message.

Refining Our Message: After extensive review and discussion, our distilled, bold message is: When America Ships, America Wins. Coupled with the rallying cry, Wake up, America—our destiny depends on it, this encapsulates the urgent need to invest in our naval statecraft to secure our maritime future.

Key Takeaways and Implications

Integrated Mission for a Modern Era: A strong Navy is not just about preparing for war—it is the foundation of national security, economic prosperity, and global maritime influence. When America builds its ships, it reinforces its entire maritime domain.

Economic and Security Benefits: Investment in our shipbuilding industry creates high-quality jobs, revitalizes our manufacturing base, and ensures our fleet is capable of sustaining military operations and global trade. Without sufficient modern vessels, our ability to maintain critical supply chains is at risk.

Historical Lessons for Today: The interwar period showed that the U.S. Navy once balanced readiness for war with vital peacetime missions like humanitarian aid and diplomatic engagement. Recalling these lessons provides a blueprint for integrating naval and maritime statecraft in today’s complex environment.

In my efforts to understand the challenges facing the U.S. Navy and our maritime infrastructure, I have spent a fair amount of time reviewing the Jones Act and the range of views surrounding it. While there are differing opinions on how best to strengthen our domestic shipping industry, one thing is clear—America needs more ships, a stronger supporting infrastructure, and a Navy that is fully equipped to protect our national security. Regardless of where one stands on the specifics of maritime policy, we can all agree that a Stronger Navy is critical to American security and economic resilience. My focus remains on ensuring that we have the industrial capacity, shipbuilding capabilities, and logistics networks necessary to maintain U.S. maritime strength in an increasingly contested world.

Why Americans Should Care

For over two centuries, American maritime strength has been a cornerstone of our global leadership. Yet today, our domestic shipbuilding industry has shrunk from over 300 shipyards in the 1980s to just 20, and our U.S.-flagged commercial fleet has dwindled to fewer than 80 vessels. With China dominating global shipbuilding and maritime trade, the equation is simple: When America Ships, America Wins. Our shipyards are the engines powering our Navy, safeguarding our commerce, and securing our freedom.

Implications for the Navy and the Maritime Domain

For the Navy: Modernizing our fleet enhances operational readiness, supports a skilled and sustainable workforce, and allows the Navy to execute both war and peacetime missions. A modernized Navy is essential to deter adversaries and defend our national interests.

For the Maritime Domain: A thriving shipbuilding industry is vital for protecting American commerce, ensuring free navigation, and fostering economic resilience. Strengthening our maritime statecraft reinforces strategic partnerships and maintains our global influence.

The Legislative Response: SHIPS for America Act

Bipartisan efforts led by figures such as Senator Mark Kelly, Congressman Mike Waltz, Rep. Trent Kelly, and Rep. John Garamendi have culminated in the introduction of the Shipbuilding and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act. This comprehensive legislation proposes to:

  • Revive U.S. Shipbuilding: Offer tax incentives and targeted investments to rebuild our shipyards and attract private-sector growth.
  • Expand the U.S.-Flagged Merchant Fleet: Implement cargo preference laws to ensure more goods travel on American ships.
  • Strengthen National Security: Increase the supply of ships available for military logistics and rapid response.
  • Develop a New Maritime Workforce: Establish apprenticeships, trade school incentives, and recruiting programs to restore critical skills in ship maintenance and marine operations.
  • Forge Strategic Partnerships with Allies: Collaborate with trusted nations like Japan, South Korea, Finland, and Canada to enhance our shipbuilding capacity while ensuring American oversight.

This legislation is not about partisan politics—it’s about survival. With global supply chains vulnerable to disruption, the urgency to rebuild our maritime strength has never been greater.

Conclusion & Call to Action

History teaches us that nations fall when they lose control of the seas. Today, as our adversaries grow stronger and our industrial base shrinks, we cannot afford to dawdle. It’s not war we desire, but peace achieved through strength—and our enemies must know that America will not stand idly by.

Join us in this crucial mission. We call on policymakers, industry leaders, and every American who values freedom and prosperity to support transformative initiatives that invest in our naval statecraft. By strengthening our shipbuilding industry and modernizing our Navy, we secure a robust maritime future that benefits us all.

When American Ships, America Wins.
Wake up, America—our destiny depends on it.

Visit StrongerNavy.org to learn more, get involved, and help ensure that our nation’s shipbuilding efforts pave the way for a secure and prosperous future.

In service to a stronger America,
Bill

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Strengthening America’s Maritime Future: A Wake-Up Call for Action

Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we have long advocated for a robust maritime strategy that includes both a stronger U.S. Navy and a revitalized civilian maritime industry. Our commitment to this cause is rooted in a belief that America’s strength at sea is indispensable to its national security, economic stability, and global leadership.

Recently, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) released findings from an investigation into China’s dominance in the shipbuilding, maritime, and logistics sectors, revealing practices that undermine fair competition and threaten American interests. This news reaffirms the urgency of revitalizing our shipbuilding industry—a call echoed by U.S. legislators like Senator John Garamendi and others who are leading efforts to rebuild our maritime capabilities.

What the Investigation Found

The USTR investigation, launched in response to petitions by five unions, highlights how China’s aggressive industrial policies have positioned it as a global leader in shipbuilding. According to USTR Katherine Tai, China builds over 1,700 ships annually—dwarfing the fewer than five built by the United States. The report emphasizes that Beijing’s practices displace foreign firms, foster dependencies, and create significant economic and security risks for the U.S.

Quoting Katherine Tai:
“Beijing’s targeted dominance of these sectors undermines fair, market-oriented competition, increases economic security risks, and is the greatest barrier to revitalization of U.S. industries.”

Why This Matters

America’s maritime industry was once the backbone of our global influence and security. Today, it is a shadow of its former self, leaving us vulnerable to external dependencies. The decline of U.S. shipbuilding not only erodes our military readiness but also jeopardizes our economic security, particularly in the face of escalating geopolitical tensions with China.

The implications extend beyond shipbuilding. Logistics, supply chains, and the broader maritime ecosystem are critical to ensuring that America can sustain its global commitments and respond to crises effectively. As Alliance for American Manufacturing President Scott Paul aptly noted:
“Failing to take decisive action will leave our shipbuilding capabilities at the mercy of Beijing’s persistent predatory market distortions.”

Legislative Efforts to Revitalize U.S. Shipbuilding

Amid these challenges, leaders like Senator John Garamendi are working to reverse the tide. Garamendi, alongside Senators Mark Kelly and Todd Young, recently introduced the SHIPS for America Act—a comprehensive, bipartisan effort to rebuild the U.S. shipbuilding industry and expand the U.S.-flagged fleet. Key provisions of this legislation include:

  • Establishing a national maritime strategy and a White House Maritime Security Advisor.
  • Expanding the U.S.-flagged fleet by 250 ships over the next decade.
  • Rebuilding the shipyard industrial base with tax credits, financial incentives, and funding for workforce development.
  • Strengthening regulations to ensure government-funded cargo is transported on U.S.-flagged vessels.

These efforts align closely with our own calls for a balanced strategy that integrates the needs of both the Navy and civilian maritime industries.

What Needs to Be Done

The USTR’s findings, combined with the SHIPS for America Act and related initiatives, offer a roadmap to reclaim America’s maritime leadership. However, this will require decisive action from policymakers, industry leaders, and the American public. We need to:

  • Invest in shipbuilding infrastructure and workforce development.
  • Expand the U.S.-flagged fleet to reduce dependence on foreign shipping.
  • Foster innovation in shipbuilding technologies to compete globally.
  • Unite bipartisan support for maritime legislation that prioritizes national security and economic resilience.

A Call to Action: Wake Up, America!

The stakes have never been higher. As we outlined in our recent open letter, the decline of America’s maritime capabilities is not just an industry problem—it’s a national security crisis. For too long, we have allowed complacency to erode our standing as a maritime power. It’s time to wake up.

We urge you to contact your representatives and demand support for legislation like the SHIPS for America Act. Share this message with your community, and join us in advocating for a stronger Navy and a revitalized civilian maritime industry.

America’s future at sea depends on it. Let’s make it happen.

Credit to AFP for their reporting on the USTR investigation and to the Alliance for American Manufacturing for their continued advocacy.

“`

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The Backbone of the Fleet: Why Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyers Like USS John Basilone Matter More Than Ever

USS John Basilone (DDG 122)
Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

The Indo-Pacific and the Middle East are regions of growing concern, placing increasing demands on the U.S. Navy’s fleet. To meet these challenges, the Navy has taken a dual approach: commissioning advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older but highly capable destroyers. Together, these efforts ensure the Navy can continue to project power, deter aggression, and respond effectively to crises.

The Backbone of the Fleet: Why USS John Basilone Matters More Than Ever

The Indo-Pacific and the Middle East are regions of growing concern, placing increasing demands on the U.S. Navy’s fleet. To meet these challenges, the Navy has taken a dual approach: commissioning advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older but highly capable destroyers. Together, these efforts ensure the Navy can continue to project power, deter aggression, and respond effectively to crises.

Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, like the newly commissioned USS John Basilone, are the backbone of the Navy’s surface fleet. These multi-mission ships excel in air, surface, and subsurface operations, providing unparalleled flexibility in addressing a wide range of threats. However, not all destroyers are created equal. The USS John Basilone stands out as one of the last Flight IIA configurations, featuring advancements that position it as a cutting-edge addition to the fleet.

What Sets USS John Basilone Apart

Commissioned on November 9, 2024, the USS John Basilone is one of the last destroyers built before the Navy transitions to the next-generation Flight III Arleigh Burke-class ships. While it doesn’t include the new AN/SPY-6 radar of the Flight III class, it boasts the following capabilities:

  • Enhanced Aegis Combat System: The USS John Basilone is equipped with the AN/SPY-1D(v) radar, part of the Navy’s most advanced integrated combat system, capable of addressing air, surface, and subsurface threats with precision.
  • Formidable Armament: With a 96-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch System, it can launch a wide range of missiles, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, Standard Missiles, and RUM-139A anti-submarine missiles. It also includes torpedoes, close-in weapon systems, and options for Harpoon or Naval Strike Missiles.
  • Aviation Capabilities: The ship carries two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, further enhancing its anti-submarine and reconnaissance operations.
  • Multi-Mission Versatility: As a Flight IIA destroyer, it’s designed for Anti-Air Warfare (AAW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), making it a versatile asset for modern conflict.

These features ensure the USS John Basilone can operate independently or as part of a larger flotilla, addressing today’s complex challenges with confidence.

Meeting the Challenges Head-On

While the USS John Basilone represents the future, retaining older destroyers also remains vital to the Navy’s strategy. Maintaining these ships requires significant investment in upgrades and maintenance to keep them mission-ready. However, these costs pale in comparison to the risks of reducing the fleet size at a time when adversaries like China and Russia are rapidly expanding their naval capabilities.

This dual approach—introducing advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older vessels—ensures the Navy has the capacity and versatility needed to respond to crises across the globe.

A Call to Support the Navy

As Americans, we must recognize the importance of supporting a strong Navy. Investments in shipbuilding, maintenance, and modernization are not just about national security—they’re about protecting the sailors who serve and ensuring the Navy can meet today’s challenges and those that lie ahead. Let us honor the legacy of heroes like John Basilone by advocating for the resources our Navy needs.

A Shout-Out to a True Supporter

A big shout-out to Susan Ann Cunha, a dedicated supporter of the U.S. Navy and a stronger military! Susan recently shared an insightful quote that resonates deeply with our mission: “The U.S. Navy needs more ships and more shipyards.”

Her unwavering commitment to ensuring the Navy has the tools and resources it needs to protect our nation is truly inspiring. Supporters like Susan remind us why it’s so important to rally behind our sailors and the infrastructure that sustains them. Thank you, Susan Ann Cunha, for your passion and steadfast support—you embody the spirit of what makes America strong!

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Honoring Our Veterans on Veterans Day

Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

As we reflect on the courage and resilience of our veterans this coming Monday, I want to share the incredible story of Captain Charlie Plumb.

Growing up as a farm kid from Kansas, he dreamed of seeing the world and serving his country. He joined the U.S. Navy, became a Top Gun pilot, and flew 74 combat missions. But on his last mission, just five days from returning home, his plane was shot down over Hanoi. Captured and held as a prisoner of war for nearly six years, he endured unimaginable hardships, surviving in an 8×8 cell and suffering brutal treatment, all while separated from his family.

When he was finally freed, Captain Plumb’s first flight home stopped at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. He called home, only to hear the devastating news that his wife, who had waited for five long years, had filed for divorce just three months before his release. It was yet another challenge, but he faced it as he had all the others—with strength, resilience, and the unshakeable will to move forward.

Captain Plumb’s story is a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices our veterans make. He shows us that adversity is, as he says, a “horrible thing to waste,” encouraging us to face our own challenges with courage and hope.

To veterans everywhere thank you. Your resilience, and commitment inspire every day. I am forever grateful for your service and sacrifice.

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Navy Extends Service Life of Three Guided-Missile Cruisers, Supporting Fleet Readiness

USS Gettysburg

In a recent decision reflecting the Navy’s commitment to sustaining fleet capabilities, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that three Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers—USS Cape St. George (CG-71), USS Gettysburg (CG-64), and USS Chosin (CG-65)—will remain in service beyond their originally planned decommissioning dates.

This decision extends their operational lives by a collective 10 years, with USS Gettysburg and USS Chosin having recently completed significant modernization upgrades. USS Cape St. George is slated to wrap up its upgrades this fiscal year.

These ships are vital assets in maintaining naval power, particularly as new ships are still under construction. The modernization program has equipped these cruisers with advanced hull, mechanical, engineering, and combat systems, ensuring they meet the material readiness standards needed to support Navy missions worldwide.

Notably, USS Chosin recently demonstrated the Navy’s Transferrable Reload At-sea Mechanism (TRAM) technology, allowing for at-sea missile reloading from a replenishment ship. This innovation underscores the importance of maintaining a fleet ready for action without needing to return to port—a key capability in contested regions.

Originally, the Navy had aimed to keep half of its Ticonderoga-class cruisers operational into the 2030s. However, challenges in the modernization program led to the retirement of many cruisers, with only three completing the upgrades necessary to remain in service. This announcement comes on the heels of a similar extension for 12 Flight I Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, which, together, mark a strategic push to preserve fleet strength while waiting for new vessels.

These extensions are not just about numbers but a clear commitment to a robust Navy ready to face global challenges. As new technological advancements become part of the fleet’s capabilities, maintaining these battle-tested platforms ensures the Navy continues to meet its objectives in an evolving security landscape.

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Open Letter to Dov S. Zakheim: Addressing the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Shortage

USS Idaho (SSN-799)

From the desk of Bill Cullifer, Founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy

Dear Mr. Zakheim,

I recently read your opinion piece in The Hill on October 18, 2024, titled “How the Navy Can Solve Its Submarine Shortage,” with great interest. Dov S. Zakheim, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and vice chairman of the board for the Foreign Policy Research Institute, brings unparalleled expertise to this discussion. As a former undersecretary of Defense (comptroller) and chief financial officer for the Department of Defense from 2001 to 2004, as well as deputy undersecretary of Defense from 1985 to 1987, your insights on defense spending, strategic planning, and military capabilities are invaluable in understanding the complexities of the U.S. Navy’s submarine deficit. 

The challenges the Navy faces in maintaining and expanding its submarine force are central to the security and operational effectiveness of the United States and its allies. At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we have long advocated for solutions to bolster our naval capabilities in light of growing global threats.

Your analysis of the potential for non-nuclear alternatives, including unmanned submarines and diesel-electric options, highlights viable paths for supplementing our fleet. However, after discussing these ideas with Captain Brent Sadler, U.S. Navy (Retired), Senior Fellow for Naval Warfare and Advanced Technology at The Heritage Foundation, a 26-year Navy veteran with extensive operational experience on nuclear-powered submarines and author of U.S. Naval Power in the 21st Century: A New Strategy for Facing the Chinese and Russian Threat, we are convinced that while these alternatives may fill certain gaps, they fall short of meeting the United States’ broader strategic needs. As Captain Sadler pointed out, “only nuclear-powered submarines possess the range, endurance, and strategic capabilities necessary to project power and safeguard the distant maritime choke points critical to both American and Australian interests.” This reality remains just as pertinent today as it was when Australia evaluated its own submarine needs decades ago.

The U.S. Navy’s dependence on nuclear-powered submarines stems not just from their superior endurance but from their ability to maintain forward presence in vital regions like the Indo-Pacific, where distances and operational demands far exceed the capabilities of diesel-electric subs. While unmanned systems like the Manta Ray and smaller ISR variants may enhance the fleet’s flexibility, they cannot replace the strategic depth provided by manned, nuclear-powered vessels.

Moreover, the capital infusion from Australia under the AUKUS agreement is a critical step toward increasing the production rates of Virginia-class submarines. Yet, as you astutely noted, even with this funding, workforce and industrial base shortages present formidable hurdles. The U.S. Navy must prioritize workforce development and shipyard modernization to accelerate production timelines and meet both our own force requirements and our commitments to allies like Australia.

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe in advocating for a multifaceted approach—one that includes continued investments in nuclear-powered submarines, increased collaboration with our allies, and targeted support for the U.S. industrial base to reduce delays in production. This will allow us to respond effectively to the twin challenges posed by China and Russia, while also maintaining readiness in other volatile regions like the Middle East.

In conclusion, while unmanned and non-nuclear options can and should play a role in the future of undersea warfare, nuclear submarines remain the backbone of our strategy. We must remain steadfast in building and maintaining a fleet capable of meeting the global challenges of the 21st century.

Thank you again for your insightful analysis, and I look forward to further discussions on this critical topic.

Sincerely,
Bill Cullifer
Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy

Note: I am not a paid spokesperson for any organization. My statements reflect my personal commitment to strengthening the U.S. Navy and advocating on behalf of those who serve.