Peace Through Strength – Community Driven – Membership Supported
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.
Americans for a Stronger Navy applauds the recent keel laying of the future USS Constellation (FFG 62)! This momentous occasion signifies a critical step forward in modernizing our nation’s fleet and ensuring American dominance at sea.
Why the Constellation Class Matters
Despite concerns over recent reports of delays due to labor shortages, supply chain issues, and design changes, the keel laying of the future USS Constellation (FFG 62) marks a significant step forward in modernizing our nation’s fleet. The builder, Fincantieri Marinette Marine, remains hopeful of minimizing these challenges and delivering this next-generation frigate on a revised schedule. Americans for a Stronger Navy applauds this momentous occasion!
The USS Constellation is the first ship in a new generation of frigates – the Constellation Class. These agile, multi-mission vessels represent a significant leap forward in naval technology. They are designed to operate effectively in both deep ocean (blue water) and near-shore (littoral) environments, providing a crucial advantage in today’s complex maritime landscape.
Benefits for America
A robust and modern Navy is essential for safeguarding our nation’s interests. Here’s how the Constellation Class strengthens American security:
Increased Global Presence: These new frigates will allow the Navy to deploy more “players on the field” – deterring aggression and protecting vital sea lanes for American commerce.
Technological Edge: The Constellation Class boasts advanced weaponry and systems, ensuring our Navy remains the most technologically proficient force on the seas.
Economic Strength: The construction of these vessels supports American jobs and revitalizes our domestic shipbuilding industry.
Standing with Our Navy
Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to advocating for a powerful and well-equipped Navy. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting this critical national security asset.
Stay Connected!
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Together, we can ensure the United States Navy remains a force for peace, security, and prosperity for generations to come.
As we continue charting the course of the U.S. Navy’s future, we set sail into a sea of critical decisions. Well, today we focus on – the contentious debated divest-to-invest strategy. The Navy proposes to decommission certain vessels to free up resources for advanced capabilities, but Congress has its own course to chart. Let’s navigate these turbulent waters and explore the implications for the Navy, potential challenges, and the long-term impact on U.S. naval power.
What You Need to Know
At the heart of the debate is the Navy’s proposal to decommission 19 ships, including 10 before reaching their expected service lives. These ships may include cruisers, dock landing ships, and littoral combat ships (specific details are still being verified with Navy contacts). The Navy argues that divesting from older vessels will free up resources for investments in newer technologies and capabilities, better positioning the Navy to address evolving global threats. This divest-to-invest strategy, however, has faced opposition from some members of Congress.
Several lawmakers have voiced concerns about specific aspects of the plan. For instance, Rep. Joe Courtney (D-CT) expressed worries about reducing the number of Virginia-class attack submarines, emphasizing the need for a larger submarine fleet in the face of a growing Chinese navy. Sen. Angus King (I-ME) highlighted the importance of icebreakers for operating in the Arctic Ocean.
Lawmakers have also been critical of the proposed decommissioning of cruisers and other vessels, citing their combat capabilities and missile power. These concerns have sparked debates between Navy officials and Congress, highlighting the complexities of balancing fiscal constraints with the need for a modern and effective fleet.
We are reaching out to Navy contacts to verify the complete list of proposed decommissionings and will update this post with any further information.
Why This Matters
The divest-to-invest strategy is not merely a budgetary concern; it’s a reflection of the Navy’s vision for future warfare readiness. The Navy argues that investing in newer, more capable vessels is essential to address evolving global threats, particularly a rising China, effectively. While the Navy’s proposal is part of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget plan, Congress has yet to decide on its implementation.
Implications for the Navy
For the Navy, the proposed decommissioning represents a shift towards a leaner, more technologically advanced fleet. It’s a move that could enhance the Navy’s combat power and operational agility but also requires careful consideration of the costs associated with maintaining older ships versus investing in new ones. Additionally, recent reports indicate delays in the construction of new ships, which could further complicate the implementation of the divest-to-invest strategy.
Implications for Congress
Congress faces the challenge of balancing the strategic needs of a larger fleet with the economic impact of decommissioning on shipyards and communities. Lawmakers must weigh the Navy’s arguments against the potential loss of jobs and the broader economic repercussions.
Challenges in Implementing the Divest-to-Invest Strategy
While the divest-to-invest strategy offers a potential path towards a modernized fleet, challenges remain in its implementation. A recent article from Breaking Defense highlights concerns from Congress about the divestment of ships exceeding the number of new ships being built. This raises questions about the Navy’s ability to maintain a sufficiently sized fleet in the short term.
The article also mentions the Navy’s request for only one Virginia-class submarine in FY25, despite previously planned purchases of two. This points to broader challenges in shipbuilding, potentially impacting the Navy’s ability to deliver on its long-term goals.
Conclusion
The debate over the Navy’s divest-to-invest strategy is more than a fiscal discussion; it’s a strategic deliberation that will shape the future of U.S. naval power. As the Navy and Congress navigate these turbulent waters, the decisions made today will have long-lasting implications for national security, economic stability, and the Navy’s ability to fulfill its mission in an ever-changing global landscape.
Call to Action
We encourage our readers to stay informed about this important issue. Follow along for updates on the budget proposal and Congressional hearings as continue . We also invite you to share your thoughts and questions about the divest-to-invest strategy by joining the discussion on our social channels by clicking here for Facebook.
As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I’ve always believed in the power of informed dialogue and unbiased facts to guide our advocacy.
With each post, we peel back another layer of the complexities surrounding our Navy’s readiness and capabilities. Today, more than ever, we stand at a critical juncture where our collective understanding and action can significantly impact the future of American naval power.
I’m committed to this journey and invite you to join me in this crucial dialogue for our nation’s security and prosperity.
In our ongoing exploration of the U.S. Navy’s budgetary landscape, a recent development has surfaced that underscores the intricate balance between strategic imperatives and fiscal realities. The decision to request funding for only one Virginia-class submarine in the fiscal 2025 budget is a stark reminder of the challenges we face in maintaining a formidable and ready fleet.
Understanding the Budgetary Landscape
Reflecting on our previous discussions, we recognize the imperative of clear requirements and strategic foresight in navigating the Navy’s budget allocations. The geopolitical landscape is ever-evolving, and with it, the demands on our naval forces. This backdrop sets the stage for our analysis of the latest budgetary decision and its implications for the future of American naval power.
The Virginia-Class Submarine Decision: A Case Study
Russell Rumbaugh, the Navy’s senior civilian overseeing financial management, emphasizes that the budget cut was not a political maneuver but a decision grounded in operational realities. This move is not about playing budgetary games but about facing the hard truths of our current capabilities and industrial limitations.
The implications of such decisions ripple through our defense ecosystem, affecting suppliers, manufacturers, and the broader defense industrial base. It highlights the perennial challenge of planning and scaling in an environment of fiscal uncertainty—a theme we’ve touched upon and that resonates deeply within the defense community.
Evaluating Strengthening Plans in Light of New Developments
Our commitment to evaluating the Navy’s strengthening plans through a multi-faceted lens remains unwavering. The recent submarine budget decision brings to light the critical balance between innovation and fiscal discipline. How does this decision impact fleet capabilities, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with our strategic objectives? These are questions we must ponder and debate.
Moreover, this decision must be contextualized within the broader tapestry of naval modernization efforts, including the DDG(X) program and the advent of unmanned systems. Each initiative, each program carries its weight in shaping the contours of our future fleet.
Seeking Balanced Perspectives and Moving Forward
In keeping with our ethos, we strive for a balanced and comprehensive discourse, drawing from a wide spectrum of perspectives. The dialogue around the Navy’s force structure and shipbuilding cadence is complex, with varying viewpoints on the path forward. As we dissect these decisions and their broader implications, we remain anchored in our mission to foster an informed and engaged community.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The journey toward a stronger Navy is fraught with challenges, but it is a journey we must undertake with resolve and insight. The decisions we scrutinize today will shape the maritime landscape of tomorrow. Let us continue this conversation with openness and a commitment to understanding the depth of these strategic decisions.
I encourage you to share your thoughts, feedback, and insights on this topic. Engage with us on our social media platforms and become an active voice in this vital dialogue. Together, we can navigate through the complexities and champion a stronger, more resilient Navy for our future.
The Virginia-class submarine program is one of the most successful and vital naval programs in the history of the United States. Since 2004, the Navy has commissioned 24 Virginia-class submarines, each one providing unparalleled stealth, speed, and firepower to the fleet.
These submarines are designed to operate in both open-ocean and littoral environments, and can perform a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, special operations, and strike warfare.
On February 23, 2024, the Navy and HII (Huntington Ingalls Industries) celebrated another milestone for the Virginia-class program: the launch of the 25th submarine, Massachusetts (SSN 798), at the Newport News Shipbuilding division. Massachusetts is the 12th submarine delivered by Newport News, which is one of only two shipyards in the country capable of designing and building nuclear-powered submarines. The launch of Massachusetts marks the completion of the major construction phase of the submarine, and the beginning of the final outfitting, testing, and crew certification process.
Why This Matters
Bill Cullifer, founder
The launch of Massachusetts is not only a remarkable achievement for the Navy and HII, but also a testament to the importance of the Virginia-class program for the national security and economic prosperity of the United States. As the Navy faces increasing challenges and threats from near-peer competitors and rogue actors around the world, the Virginia-class submarines provide a critical edge and deterrent for the U.S. and its allies. These submarines are equipped with the latest technologies and innovations, such as the Virginia Payload Module, which increases the missile capacity of the submarines by 75 percent, and the acoustic superiority program, which enhances the stealth and survivability of the submarines. The Virginia-class program also supports the industrial base and the workforce of the United States, creating thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in economic activity. According to a 2019 study by the University of Virginia, the Virginia-class program supports more than 23,000 direct and indirect jobs across 46 states, and contributes more than $4 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product annually. The program also fosters innovation and collaboration among the Navy, HII, General Dynamics Electric Boat, and hundreds of suppliers and subcontractors across the country.
Why Americans Should Care
The launch of Massachusetts is an occasion for all Americans to celebrate and appreciate the Virginia-class program and the men and women who make it possible. The Virginia-class submarines are not only the most advanced and versatile submarines in the world, but also the most cost-effective and efficient. The program has consistently delivered submarines ahead of schedule and under budget, thanks to the teamwork and dedication of the Navy and industry partners. The program has also achieved remarkable improvements in quality and performance, reducing the construction time and the number of issues per submarine by more than 50 percent since the first submarine was delivered.
The Virginia-class submarines are also a source of pride and inspiration for the American people, as they embody the values and ideals of the nation. The submarines are named after states, cities, and historical figures that represent the diversity and heritage of the United States. The submarines are crewed by some of the most talented and courageous sailors in the Navy, who volunteer to serve their country and protect its interests. The submarines are also a symbol of the strength and resolve of the United States, as they demonstrate the nation’s commitment to maintaining peace and freedom around the world.
About the History of the Virginia Class
The Virginia-class program was initiated in the late 1980s, as a response to the changing strategic environment and the need for a more flexible and adaptable submarine force. The program was designed to replace the aging Los Angeles-class submarines, which were optimized for open-ocean operations during the Cold War. The Virginia-class submarines were conceived to operate in both blue water and shallow water, and to perform a wider range of missions, such as land attack, special operations, and covert insertion and extraction of forces. The first Virginia-class submarine, Virginia (SSN 774), was authorized by Congress in 1998, and delivered to the Navy in 2004. Since then, the Navy has commissioned 24 Virginia-class submarines, with 10 more under construction and 11 more on contract. The current plan is to build a total of 66 Virginia-class submarines, which will constitute the backbone of the submarine force for decades to come.
The Virginia-class program is a joint effort between the Navy and two shipbuilders: HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division and General Dynamics Electric Boat. The two shipyards share the construction workload, with each one building certain modules and sections of the submarines, and alternating the delivery of the final products. The two shipyards also collaborate on the design and engineering of the submarines, and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the quality and efficiency of the program.
How Submarines Have Helped the US Navy
Submarines have been an integral part of the US Navy since the Revolutionary War, when the first American submarine, Turtle, attempted to attach a mine to a British warship in New York Harbor. Since then, submarines have played a vital role in every major conflict and operation involving the US Navy, from the Civil War to the War on Terror.
Submarines have helped the US Navy achieve several strategic objectives, such as: • Denying the enemy access to the seas and vital resources, such as during the World War II submarine campaign against Japan, which crippled its economy and military. • Providing intelligence and surveillance on the enemy’s activities and capabilities, such as during the Cold War submarine missions that collected valuable information on the Soviet Navy and its nuclear weapons. • Delivering precision strikes on high-value targets, such as during the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan, when submarines launched Tomahawk cruise missiles against enemy installations and leadership. • Supporting special operations and covert actions, such as during the Vietnam War and the War in Iraq, when submarines inserted and extracted Navy SEALs and other special forces behind enemy lines. • Deterring aggression and maintaining stability, such as during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the current Indo-Pacific region, when submarines provide a credible and survivable nuclear deterrent and a conventional response option.
Submarines have also contributed to the scientific and technological advancement of the US Navy and the nation, such as: • Exploring the depths and mysteries of the oceans, such as when the submarine Trieste reached the bottom of the Mariana Trench, the deepest point on Earth, in 1960. • Developing and testing new technologies and systems, such as nuclear propulsion, sonar, navigation, communication, and weapons, that have enhanced the performance and capabilities of the submarine force and the entire Navy. • Promoting innovation and excellence, such as by fostering a culture of learning, experimentation, and adaptation among the submarine community, and by attracting and retaining some of the best and brightest minds in the Navy and the nation.
Conclusion
The launch of Massachusetts is a remarkable achievement for the Navy and HII, and a significant milestone for the Virginia-class program. The Virginia-class submarines are the most advanced and versatile submarines in the world, and provide a critical edge and deterrent for the US and its allies. The Virginia-class program also supports the industrial base and the workforce of the US, creating thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in economic activity. The Virginia-class program is a source of pride and inspiration for the American people, as it embodies the values and ideals of the nation, and demonstrates the nation’s commitment to maintaining peace and freedom around the world.
The Americans for a Stronger Navy is a non-profit organization that advocates for a robust and modern naval force that can protect and advance the interests of the US and its allies. We believe that the Virginia-class program is essential for the national security and economic prosperity of the US, and we support the Navy and HII in their efforts to deliver these submarines to the fleet. We urge Congress and the administration to fully fund and sustain the Virginia-class program, and to ensure that the Navy has the resources and the authority to maintain and expand its submarine force.
We also encourage the American people to learn more about the Virginia-class program and the submarine force, and to support and appreciate the men and women who serve on these submarines. Together, we can make the US Navy stronger and the nation safer.
Dear Fellow Americans, Members and Friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy.
Today, we stand at a crucial juncture in our nation’s history, where the strength of our naval fleet is not just a matter of pride, but a critical component of our national security.
Bill Cullifer, Fouder
As the leader of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I am deeply committed to ensuring that the United States remains a formidable maritime power. This blog series, “U.S. Naval Shipbuilding: Past, Present, and Future – A Nation’s Perspective,” is a clarion call to action. It aims to shed light on the current challenges, draw lessons from our rich history, and chart a course for a future where America leads the seas.
The Problem Defined
The U.S. Navy currently faces unprecedented delays and workforce shortages in shipyards, resulting in postponed vessel deliveries and operational challenges. This not only hampers our fleet readiness but also impacts our ability to respond to global threats effectively.
In a statemet, January 11, 2024, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro has ordered a “comprehensive shipbuilding review” to assess both “national and local causes of shipbuilding challenges.”
“I remain concerned with the lingering effects of post-pandemic conditions on our shipbuilders and their suppliers that continue to affect our shipbuilding programs, particularly our Columbia Class Ballistic Missile Submarines and Constellation Class Frigate,” Del Toro.
Historical Context
Reflecting on World War II, the U.S. overcame similar challenges through innovation, rapid expansion, and national mobilization. These lessons from history are vital as we confront today’s challenges.
Why It Matters
Our naval strength is crucial in an era of increasing global tensions.
Dominance at sea is not just about power projection but also about safeguarding international trade routes and ensuring global stability.
Inadequate shipbuilding capacity poses a direct threat to these objectives.
The Navy’s Stance
The U.S. Navy recognizes these challenges, advocating for efficient production practices and skilled labor. There’s an urgent need to modernize shipyards and invest in training programs to meet this demand.
Calling it a “strategic imperative”, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro urged industry and academia to join efforts to restore the Nation’s competitive shipbuilding and repair landscape.
“We are a nation accustomed to taking on ambitious endeavors, and restoring our maritime strength is no exception.” Del Toro said.
Shipyard Perspectives
Shipyard managers emphasize modernization and investment in workforce training as critical to overcoming current challenges. They advocate for adopting technologies such as automation and advanced materials, and for policies that support the shipbuilding industry.
International Comparisons
Examining successful shipbuilding programs in countries like South Korea and Japan can provide valuable insights into managing efficient and technologically advanced shipyards.
Economic and Environmental Implications
A robust shipbuilding industry is not just a defense asset but also a significant economic driver, creating jobs and fostering technological innovation. Moreover, modern shipbuilding must align with environmental sustainability goals, emphasizing eco-friendly practices.
Public Awareness and Support
It is crucial to increase public awareness and support for naval shipbuilding. This involves understanding the industry’s impact on national security and the economy and recognizing the dedication of those who work in this vital sector.
Role of ‘Americans for a Stronger Navy’
Our organization is committed to highlighting these issues and advocating for a stronger naval fleet. We believe in the power of public support and policy advocacy to drive change.
The Threat and Consequences
Failure to address these challenges could result in a diminished global presence and reduced deterrence capabilities, leaving us vulnerable in an increasingly unpredictable world. The consequences of inaction are stark – diminished naval power in the face of rising global threats.
Public Perspective on U.S. Naval Shipbuilding
In understanding the broader implications of U.S. Naval Shipbuilding, the perspective of the American public plays a crucial role. Recent surveys and public forums indicate a growing awareness of the strategic importance of a strong naval presence for national security.
Many Americans acknowledge the economic impact of the shipbuilding industry, recognizing its role in job creation and technological innovation.
However, there is also a call for greater transparency and efficiency in naval operations and ship construction processes. Concerns about fiscal responsibility and environmental sustainability in shipbuilding practices are increasingly becoming part of the public discourse.
This collective voice underlines the need for a balanced approach that upholds national security interests while addressing public concerns about cost, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.
Conclusion
The need for action is clear. By learning from our past, addressing current challenges, and investing in our future, we can ensure a robust and ready naval fleet. Join us in this series to explore these themes and advocate for a stronger Navy.
Stay tuned for our next post, where we delve deeper into the lessons from World War II and how they can inform our approach today. Let’s move America towards a future of maritime strength and security.
The littoral combat ship Gabrielle Giffords leads a formation with the unmanned surface vessels Ranger and Mariner on Sept. 7, 2023. (MC2 Jesse Monford/U.S. Navy)
Dear Members and Friends,
As advocates for a robust and future-ready U.S. Navy, we constantly seek developments that shape our naval forces. Today, we bring to your attention a significant advancement in naval technology and strategy.
Unprecedented Deployment of Unmanned Ships
In a historic move, the U.S. Navy has completed its first deployment of four unmanned ships – Sea Hunter, Sea Hawk, Mariner, and Ranger. This deployment marks a pivotal moment in naval operations, integrating unmanned technology into the fleet.
The Pacific Voyage
The deployment spanned five months, with these prototypes sailing a combined 46,651 nautical miles and visiting ports in Japan and Australia. A noteworthy aspect was their autonomous mode operation, showcasing advanced technology and strategic capability.
Testing and Integration into Fleet Operations
Under the oversight of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, this deployment aimed to test the integration of unmanned ships with crewed fleet operations. The insights gained from this exercise are crucial in refining operations and sustainment concepts for future deployments.
Command and Control Successes
A significant achievement was the effective command and control of these vessels, operated remotely or autonomously. This aspect of the operation represents a major advancement in naval warfare technology and strategy.
Challenges and Future Developments
Despite successes, integration of the USV into the broader sensor and shooter network remains a challenge. The upcoming Integrated Combat System promises to enhance data sharing and operational efficiency across the fleet.
Featured Coverage and Insights
Surface Navy Coverage and eBook Outlook 2024: This segment offers a glimpse into the future of naval operations and technology.
Point of View: The New Era of Cloud-Enabled Missions: Insights into how cloud technology is revolutionizing naval missions.
As we witness these remarkable advancements, it’s essential to remember the words of the great naval leader, Admiral Chester Nimitz: “A ship is more than a mere vessel; it embodies the will and intent of those who sail her.” These unmanned ships are not just technological marvels; they represent the innovative spirit and strategic foresight of the U.S. Navy.
We, at Americans for a Stronger Navy, are excited about these developments and remain committed to supporting a strong, technologically advanced, and strategically adept U.S. Navy.
Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s sail forward to a stronger future!
Americans for a Stronger Navy: Navigating the Tides of Information and Misinformation
USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) at Naval Base San Diego
In our digital age, where information is rapidly disseminated and often distorted, the recent incident involving the USS Bonhomme Richard video serves as a poignant example of the challenges posed by misinformation. This story aims to explore the impact of misinformation on public perception and policy, particularly in relation to the strategic role and operations of the U.S. Navy.
Misinformation in Naval Affairs: The USS Bonhomme Richard Incident
In January 2024, a video from July 2020 displaying the USS Bonhomme Richard engulfed in flames was inaccurately shared online as an attack during the Israel-Hamas war.
The significant point to note is that the original source of this misinformation was not identified by Reuters.
This omission is a common occurrence in misinformation cases, where content can become widespread without a traceable origin. The incident, in reality, was a well-documented fire in San Diego, leading to the ship’s decommissioning.
This case underscores the importance of verifying information in the digital realm.
The Challenge of Tracing Misinformation
The spread of misinformation, especially when the source is unclear, presents a significant challenge in the digital era.
This is not a new phenomenon in naval history; past incidents have demonstrated similar patterns of misinformation and their significant impact.
The inability to trace the original source often complicates the process of correcting false narratives.
Why Accurate Information Matters The ramifications of misinformation are far-reaching.
In the context of naval power, misinformation can influence public opinion, policy decisions, and even the strategic direction and support of naval operations.
Ensuring accurate and reliable information is critical for informed decision-making and maintaining public trust in naval affairs.
Conclusion The USS Bonhomme Richard video incident is a stark reminder of the critical need for accuracy in disseminating information related to naval operations.
As advocates for a strong and effective Navy, it is essential to recognize and confront the challenges of misinformation.
Ensuring that discussions and decisions are based on verified information is crucial for the future of naval strategy and national security.
I’ve had the privilege of engaging with multiple experts at the forefront of naval innovation and strategy.
These conversations have illuminated the significant technological strides and forward thinking in the U.S. Navy, particularly in the realm of autonomous vessels.
During a brief pause in these discussions, my thoughts drifted to the storied Army-Navy football game set for December 9, 2023. This annual event, steeped in tradition and camaraderie, sparked a curious reflection on the future intersection of technology and tradition.
In a creative moment, I envisioned autonomous Army and Navy football players – a fusion of technology and sport. This vision, while fascinating in a technological sense, also stirred a poignant realization.
The rapid evolution of autonomous technologies, while enhancing our naval capabilities, might also mean that future generations could miss out on traditional experiences. The prospect of serving at sea or competing on the football field might become memories of a bygone era.
This duality is at the heart of our upcoming series. While we explore the technological advancements and their implications for national security, we must also acknowledge the sentimental aspects. The camaraderie of sailors at sea, the saltiness in the air, the taste of ballpark hot dogs, and the roar of the crowd at a football game – these are experiences that shape character, foster bonds, and define human experiences.
As members and friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy, you understand the delicate balance between embracing innovation and preserving tradition. Our naval history is rich with tales of bravery and unity, and our future promises unprecedented technological prowess.
Let’s embrace this journey together, exploring how these advancements will shape the U.S. Navy while remembering the human element that has always been its backbone. The future of American naval power is not just about ships and technology; it’s about the people who serve and the traditions that bind us.
With a heritage rooted in my service as a US Navy Destroyer sailor and as the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I carry a profound appreciation for the indispensable role of the U.S. Navy in safeguarding our nation’s security and prosperity. Having stood stem to stern with sailors of diverse backgrounds, I’ve been a witness to their commitment and the sacrifices they make for our country’s well-being. My dedication to this esteemed American institution is unwavering, and I am resolute in my commitment to maintain our Navy as the most formidable maritime force globally.
It is encouraging to note that GOP candidates Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley in last night’s debates have both recognized the need for a “stronger Navy.” Their collective acknowledgment underscores the urgency of reinforcing our naval capabilities in the face of escalating threats from strategic adversaries like China, Russia and Iran.
Echoing Eaglen’s sentiments, I contend that an agile adaptation to the shifting maritime theater is essential. Investing in the right mix of technology, forging stronger alliances, and galvanizing public support for naval endeavors are critical steps towards this goal.
As we acknowledge the challenges outlined by Eaglen and others, we at Americans for a Stronger Navy understand the gravity of these concerns and the imperative of a strategic response.
The Path Forward
To address the multi-faceted nature of these challenges, a comprehensive strategy encompassing innovation, force structure assessment, shipyard modernization, and strengthened alliances is necessary:
Strategic Innovation: The Navy should lead in deploying advanced technologies like unmanned systems and artificial intelligence, amplifying the capabilities of our current fleet and personnel.
Force Structure Assessment: Regular evaluations of our force composition will ensure that we have the optimal blend of high-end assets and versatile platforms for varied operational demands.
Shipyard Modernization: Upgrading our shipbuilding facilities and fostering workforce proficiency is crucial for augmenting our shipbuilding capacity and minimizing maintenance delays.
Budget Certainty: It’s imperative that Congress affords the Navy a predictable and substantial budget, mitigating the inefficiencies of financial uncertainty.
Alliances and Partnerships: Fortifying our bonds with allies and encouraging their naval modernization endeavors will be pivotal for a robust collective defense.
Holistic Defense Strategy: The Navy must be integrated within a broader defense architecture that encompasses air, space, cyber, and land forces.
Education and Outreach: Fostering strong connections with educational entities will nurture the future craftsmen and leaders essential for naval supremacy.
Investing in Its People: The backbone of the U.S. Navy is its sailors. To maintain a competitive edge, we must invest in their professional growth and personal well-being. This entails comprehensive training programs, educational opportunities, career development paths, and supportive services that ensure our sailors are not only prepared to meet the demands of modern warfare but also feel valued and invested in. By doing so, we cultivate a workforce that is resilient, skilled, and deeply committed to the Navy’s mission. Our sailors deserve the best support a nation can offer, from cutting-edge training systems to robust family and health services, ensuring they are mission-ready and their families are well cared for.
Public Engagement
To cultivate enduring support for a formidable Navy, we must enhance public engagement through:
Awareness campaigns that illuminate the Navy’s role and capabilities.
Educational programs to broaden knowledge of the Navy’s contribution to national security.
Opportunities for public involvement to support the Navy’s mission.
Concluding Thoughts
In essence, we urge a united front of policymakers, industry leaders, and citizens to embrace a strategic vision that preserves the U.S. Navy’s preeminence on the global stage. With discerning evaluations and consistent investment, we can nurture a balanced, mighty naval force ready to counter any threat and uphold our national interests for future generations.
Welcome to “Fleet Forward: Charting Tomorrow’s Navy,” a personal endeavor born from my commitment as your host Bill Cullifer, founder and former Destroyer Navy Sailor to ensure the enduring strength and capability of our Naval forces. With this series, inspired by our shared values and patriotic spirit, we aim to complement our upcoming December podcast series ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’. Here, we’ll not only delve into the Navy’s shipbuilding strategies but also the stories and people behind them, reflecting on our national security, economic vitality, and our role on the global stage.
The Importance of a Strong Navy
As we face evolving threats in an increasingly complex global landscape, a strong Navy is not just a matter of national pride—it is a crucial pillar of American security and global stability.
The Process of Naval Shipbuilding
Inspired by a blog post from Brent D. Sadler, former U.S. Naval Captain and author of U.S. Power in the 21st Century, Our journey will explore the labyrinthine process of designing, planning, and budgeting that goes into creating the Navy’s vessels, with a special emphasis on the cutting-edge DDG(X) program.
The Format of Our Series
This format ensures a cohesive presentation that begins with the “why” before diving into the “what” and “how” of the series content.
The Challenges and Opportunities of Naval Procurement
In the wake of the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) critical analysis and ensuing public debate sparked by commentary from experts like Brent Sadler, our series will untangle the complex web of factors influencing naval procurement decisions. We’ll dissect the multifaceted challenges of aligning strategic imperatives with fiscal responsibility, technological innovation with logistical practicality, and political ambition with operational necessity.
The Stakeholders and Perspectives of Naval Strategy
Each episode will feature voices from a spectrum of stakeholders—military officers, defense analysts, policymakers, industry experts, and academics—to illuminate the diverse perspectives that shape the Navy’s trajectory. From the drawing boards where the future of naval warfare begins to the congressional halls where budgets are debated and determined, we’ll provide you with a holistic view of what it takes to build a fleet capable of securing American interests on the global stage.
The DDG(X) Program
Our deep dive starts at the heart of controversy—the DDG(X) destroyer. As a linchpin of the Navy’s future force structure, this program epitomizes the technological ambition and the budgetary challenges inherent in modern naval shipbuilding. We’ll scrutinize its design process, how it fits into the broader naval architecture, and the strategic thinking that drives its development.
The Main Topics of Our Series
As we embark on this analytical voyage through the Navy’s shipbuilding endeavors, our series will navigate through eight key topics that capture the essence of the challenges and strategies underlying America’s naval future. We’ll be examining:
• The overarching goals of the Navy’s shipbuilding plans and their strategic significance.
• The fiscal landscape of naval procurement, including budgeting processes and cost control measures.
• The technological advancements and design considerations in modern shipbuilding, with a spotlight on the DDG(X) program.
• The industrial base and workforce development necessary for sustaining and advancing shipbuilding capabilities.
• The geopolitical implications of naval power, focusing on the dynamics with near-peer competitors such as China.
• Congressional oversight and legislative impact on Navy shipbuilding, including funding and authorization.
• The operational requirements driving the composition and capability needs of the future fleet.
• Alliances and partnerships, such as AUKUS, and their influence on U.S. shipbuilding plans and strategic positioning.
Conclusion
In our next episode, we will dissect the recent CBO report and expert critiques like those from Brent Sadler, setting the stage for a series that promises a thorough dissection of the Navy’s path forward. Each topic will build upon the last, creating a comprehensive narrative that brings clarity to the complex world of naval strategy and shipbuilding.
Join us as we steer through these topics with expert interviews, panel discussions, and in-depth analyses, providing a 360-degree view of what it takes to maintain a Navy capable of meeting tomorrow’s challenges.
