Shipbuilding News Archives - Page 4 of 5 - Americans for a Stronger Navy

October 8, 2023

How the USS Bougainville Will Boost the Navy’s Amphibious Capabilities

USS Bougainville (LHA 8) image credit Ingalls Shipbuilding

Launch and Historical Significance On October 6, 2023, Ingalls Shipbuilding launched the USS Bougainville (LHA 8), the Navy’s third America-class amphibious assault ship, from its floating dock into the Pascagoula River. This was a major milestone for the ship, which is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2025. The ship is named after Bougainville Island, where U.S. Marines fought a fierce battle against Japanese forces during World War II.

The Growing Need for Amphibious Capabilities Recent events, like the evacuation challenges in Sudan and the aftermath of a massive earthquake in Turkey and Syria, have highlighted the urgent need for more available amphibious capabilities. In Sudan, for instance, the Marines couldn’t deploy an amphibious ready group to evacuate trapped Americans, underscoring a critical gap in readiness.

Enhanced Amphibious Capabilities The USS Bougainville is not just another ship in the Navy’s fleet. It is a game-changer for the Navy’s amphibious capabilities, as it is the first ship in the America class to be built with a well deck. This vessel can launch and recover landing craft and amphibious vehicles, crucial for missions like the one needed in Sudan.

The Debate on Fleet Size The Navy and Pentagon are currently debating the ideal number of amphibious ships. The recent incidents, coupled with the shifting geopolitical landscape, particularly regarding China, highlight the significance of this debate. As of now, the Navy has 31 amphibious ships, a number that some, including the Marine Corps, consider to be the bare minimum. However, plans indicate a potential reduction below this number by fiscal 2024.

Aviation and Aircraft Support, and Ingalls Shipbuilding’s Crucial Role The USS Bougainville also has a larger flight deck than its predecessors, the USS America (LHA 6) and the USS Tripoli (LHA 7). Decisions about the future of amphibious ships have significant implications for defense contractors like Ingalls Shipbuilding. If the Pentagon decides against buying more amphibious ships, this could affect Ingalls’ production line directly.

Ingalls Shipbuilding launched the USS Bougainville (LHA 8)

The Broader Implications Beyond pure numbers, there’s a debate about the evolving role of amphibious ships. While they retain their warfighting capabilities, they are increasingly used for training with partners, disaster response, and citizen evacuations. This dual role, both in war and peace, underscores their importance in the Navy’s fleet.

Conclusion The USS Bougainville will honor the legacy of its namesake island and its heroes by serving as a versatile platform for peace and freedom around the world. As the world grapples with complex security challenges, the debate over amphibious capabilities will continue, with ships like the USS Bougainville at the center of the discussion.

October 7, 2023October 7, 2023

Blue Angels Soar High in San Francisco, Symbolizing the Pinnacle of Navy Excellence

Dear members and friends,

The Blue Angels have been an emblem of American prowess in the skies since their inception in 1946. Watching their mesmerizing performances is not just an airshow; it’s a testament to the dedication, precision, and commitment to excellence embodied by our Navy. This past weekend, San Francisco witnessed the brilliance of the Blue Angels, and with it, a significant moment in Naval history.

Lt. Cmdr. Amanda Lee, a native of Mounds View, Minnesota, and a testament to the values we hold dear, soared across the skies of San Francisco. She is the first woman to be part of a Blue Angels team. Her journey – from playing soccer, ice hockey, and swimming in high school, to enlisting in the U.S. Navy as an aviation electronics technician and subsequently becoming a pilot – speaks volumes about her determination and dedication.

The weekend also marked a homecoming for Lt. Cmdr. Scott Goossens, a San Francisco native. Scott’s trajectory from St. Ignatius College Prep to national security and defense policy, before he found his calling in the Navy, is an inspiration for every young American looking for purpose and direction.

As the founder of Americans for the Stronger Navy, I wish to convey the profound respect and admiration we hold for these skilled pilots and the entire Blue Angels team. Their achievements underline the very reasons we advocate for a robust Navy. Our Navy is not just about ships and weaponry; it’s about the people, their stories, and the values they uphold.

The beautiful weather, devoid of last year’s fog that had interrupted the show, was symbolic. It showed clarity, hope, and a bright future. I sincerely hope that the Americans for the Stronger Navy community could see what I see: a vibrant display of our Navy’s capabilities, reminding us of the importance of our advocacy efforts.

Cmdr. Alex Armatas, in his enthusiasm for the weekend’s show, encapsulated our sentiments perfectly: “I think a lot of people are [excited]. It looks like the weather is going to be friendly this weekend. Hopefully, the fog stays clear of the bay, and we can fly a good show.” He looks forward to representing the Navy and Marine Corps for the city of San Francisco, and we stand with him in that pride.

In closing, I want to reassure our members and subscribers that we are committed to bringing stories that matter. Our goal is to consistently remind you of the importance of a stronger Navy, not just through statistics and policy discussions but through real-life examples of courage, commitment, and excellence.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let’s continue to advocate for our Navy’s strength, for it’s not just about defense; it’s about our values, our people, and our nation’s pride.

Stay strong,
Bill Cullifer
Founder, Americans for the Stronger Navy.

October 3, 2023

The US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’: A New Dimension of Naval Cooperation with Japan

The unmanned surface vessel Ranger transits the Pacific Ocean during Integrated Battle Problem (IBP) 23.2, Sep. 15, 2023. US Navy Photo

Japan Welcomes the US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’: A Showcase of Unmanned Maritime Technology and Strategy

Why this matters
• The US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’ is in Japan to test and demonstrate its unmanned vessels. These ships can operate autonomously or remotely, with advanced sensors and weapons. They can also link with other Aegis vessels, creating a networked force multiplier. #GhostFleet #Aegis #USNavy
• Japan welcomes the US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’, a program that aims to integrate unmanned vessels into its fleet. These ships are equipped with the Aegis combat system and the SM-6 interceptor missiles. They can perform various missions, such as ISR, EW, MCM, and ASW. #GhostFleet #Aegis #USNavy
• The US Navy’s ‘Ghost Fleet’ arrives in Japan for testing and demonstration purposes. These unmanned vessels are designed to operate autonomously or remotely, with minimal human intervention. They are part of the US Navy’s efforts to maintain a strong presence and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region. #GhostFleet #IndoPacific #USNavy

August 22, 2023August 22, 2023

The USS Ted Stevens: The Ship That Can Strike Anywhere in Minutes

Hello, members and subscribers of Stronger Navy! We are back with another exciting update on the latest developments in America’s naval power.

Today, we are going to talk about the USS Ted Stevens (DDG-128), a new Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer that will be one of the most powerful and lethal warships in the world.

The ship was launched on August 15, 2023, and was christened on August 19, 2023, by his widow and daughters.

The ship is named after the late Senator Ted Stevens, who served Alaska for over 40 years and was a strong supporter of the Navy and the Marine Corps. He was also a decorated World War II pilot who flew missions in China, Burma, and India.

He survived several plane crashes, including one in 1978 that killed his first wife and another one in 2010 that killed him and four others. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The USS Ted Stevens is the third ship of the Flight III of the Arleigh Burke-class, which features improved capabilities in missile defense, air warfare, and electronic warfare.

The Flight III ships are equipped with the AN/SPY-6 (V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which is 35 times more powerful than the previous radar systems and can detect and track multiple threats simultaneously.

The Flight III ships also have the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, which can launch hypersonic missiles that can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and strike targets anywhere in the world within minutes.

The USS Ted Stevens will be one of the first ships to carry this system, which will give it a significant edge over potential adversaries.

The USS Ted Stevens will join the USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) and its sister ships as part of America’s naval power projection in an era of great power competition.

The USS Zumwalt is a revolutionary ship that represents the future of naval warfare, with its stealth design, electric propulsion, and potential to carry hypersonic weapons.

The ship’s homeport shift from San Diego to Pascagoula, Mississippi, is part of a plan to upgrade the ship with new technologies and systems, such as the CPS system. The USS Zumwalt and its sister ships will provide a significant boost to America’s naval power and deterrence.

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about the USS Ted Stevens and its significance for America’s naval power.

We invite you to share your thoughts and opinions on this topic in the comments section below. Thank you for your support and stay tuned for more updates from Stronger Navy!

The USS Ted Stevens is the third ship of the Flight III of the Arleigh Burke -class, which features improved capabilities in missile defense, air warfare, and electronic warfare. The Flight III ships are equipped with the AN/SPY-6 (V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which is 35 times more powerful than the previous radar systems and can detect and track multiple threats simultaneously. The Flight III ships also have the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, which can launch hypersonic missiles that can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and strike targets anywhere in the world within minutes.
The USS Ted Stevens will be one of the first ships to carry this system, which will give it a significant edge over potential adversaries.
The USS Ted Stevens is named after Ted Stevens, who was the longest serving Republican U.S. senator in history when he left office in 2009. He represented Alaska for over 40 years and was a strong advocate for the Navy and the Marine Corps.
He was also a decorated World War II pilot who flew missions in China, Burma, and India. He survived several plane crashes, including one in 1978 that killed his first wife and another one in 2010 that killed him and four others. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The USS Ted Stevens was launched on August 15, 2023, at the Ingalls Shipbuilding division of Huntington Ingalls Industries in Pascagoula, Mississippi. It was christened on August 19, 2023, by his widow Catherine Ann Stevens and his daughters Susan Stevens Covich, Lily Irene Becker, and Karina Stevens.
The ship’s motto is “Lead with Courage”, which reflects Ted Stevens’ legacy of leadership and service. The ship’s crest features a grizzly bear, which symbolizes Alaska’s wildlife and Ted Stevens’ nickname “Uncle Ted”. It also features a gold star, which represents his military service and his Medal of Freedom. The ship’s hull number is DDG-128, which coincides with Ted Stevens’ birthday on November 28.

August 20, 2023August 20, 2023

Why the USS Zumwalt’s Homeport Shift Matters for America’s Naval Power

The USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) is the lead ship of the Zumwalt class, the most advanced and lethal surface combatants in the world. The ship departed San Diego on August 1, 2021, and will shift its homeport from San Diego to Pascagoula, Mississippi. This move is not just a routine relocation, but a strategic decision that will enhance the ship’s capabilities and readiness for future missions.

The Zumwalt Class: A Game-Changer for Naval Warfare

The Zumwalt class is a new generation of multi-mission destroyers designed to strengthen naval power from the sea. These ships feature a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, a wave-piercing tumblehome hull, a stealth design, and the latest warfighting technology and weaponry available. The Zumwalt class can perform a range of deterrence, power projection, sea control, and command and control missions, while allowing the Navy to evolve with new systems and threats.

Some of the unique features of the Zumwalt class include:
• A larger flight deck and hangar than any other surface combatant, capable of accommodating two MH-60R helicopters or three MQ-8 Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicles.
• A multifunction radar (MFR) that provides air and missile defense, surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense capabilities.
• A dual-band sonar that enables anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare.
• A vertical launching system (VLS) that can hold up to 80 missiles of various types and sizes, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, Standard missiles, Evolved Sea Sparrow missiles, and Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rockets.
• Two advanced gun systems (AGS) that can fire long-range precision projectiles at a rate of 10 rounds per minute.
• A reduced crew size of 142 sailors, thanks to automation and integration of ship systems.

The Conventional Prompt Strike: A New Weapon for a New Era

The USS Zumwalt will undergo a modernization period in Pascagoula, where it will receive technology upgrades including the integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) weapons system. CPS is a hypersonic boost-glide missile development and test program that provides longer range, shorter flight times, and high survivability against enemy defenses. CPS is a joint effort between the Navy and the Army, and will be deployed on both surface ships and submarines.

Hypersonic weapons are those that can travel at speeds above Mach 5 (or five times the speed of sound). They can maneuver unpredictably in flight, making them harder to detect and intercept by conventional air defense systems. They can also deliver conventional warheads with high accuracy and lethality, without relying on nuclear deterrence.
CPS will give the USS Zumwalt and other platforms a new capability to conduct prompt and precise strikes against high-value targets anywhere in the world within one hour. This will enhance the U.S. military’s ability to respond to emerging threats and crises, as well as deter potential adversaries from aggression.

The Future of Naval Power: Ready for What’s Ahead

The USS Zumwalt’s homeport shift is not only a logistical change, but also a sign of the Navy’s commitment to innovation and adaptation. The Zumwalt class and the CPS weapons system are examples of how the Navy is investing in cutting-edge technologies that will ensure its dominance in the maritime domain for decades to come.

As members and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we applaud this decision and look forward to seeing the USS Zumwalt in action. We believe that a strong navy is not a want but a need for our nation’s security and prosperity. We also believe that our sailors deserve the best equipment and training to carry out their missions.

We hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new about our navy’s capabilities. If you want to learn more about the USS Zumwalt or other naval topics, please visit our website or follow us on social media.

Thank you for your attention and support.

August 13, 2023August 13, 2023

Guardians of the Sea: The Philippines, China, and the Legacy of the Sierra Madre

Introduction

Amid the vastness of the South China Sea, an aging warship rests as a symbol of sovereignty, determination, and regional tension. This rusting relic, the BRP Sierra Madre, has inadvertently become the flashpoint of geopolitical contention between the Philippines and China. While for some it may appear as just a dilapidated warship, its importance transcends its physical condition. By understanding its past and its current role, we can appreciate the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy and the call for unity and strength across the seas.

https://youtu.be/duhNoYsqnGo

Legacy of the Sierra Madre

Summary

The South China Sea has always been a hotspot for territorial disputes. The Philippines has made a move to assert its presence by grounding the Sierra Madre, a warship with a rich history, on Second Thomas Shoal. This strategic decision was made in response to China’s increasing maritime activities, especially after the occupation of the nearby Mischief Reef. The ship, though no longer seaworthy, still holds significance as an extension of Philippines’ sovereign territory. The recent actions by the Chinese coast guard, including the use of water cannons, underline the rising tensions and the urgency to address maritime rights and sovereignty.

Key Takeaways

Legacy of the Sierra Madre: Originally a US tank-landing ship, the Sierra Madre was later acquired by the Philippines navy and has since been a symbol of the Philippines’ presence and territorial claim in the South China Sea.
Strategic Importance: The ship was grounded on Second Thomas Shoal in the late 1990s as a countermove to China’s growing dominance and occupation of nearby areas. It remains a testament to the Philippines’ resolve in upholding its maritime rights.
Recent Tensions: China’s recent aggressive actions against the Sierra Madre, including firing water cannons at Philippine vessels, reflect the escalating tension in the region.

Conclusion

The story of the Sierra Madre is not just of a ship, but of resilience, strategy, and a fight for sovereignty. As tensions rise, the importance of a stronger and unified maritime force becomes increasingly evident. We, the Americans for a Stronger Navy, stand in solidarity with our allies and urge all to recognize the importance of preserving maritime rights. We are proud to be part of a community that values the significance of these waterways, and we call upon every American to join us in bolstering our mission and securing a safer future for all.

July 28, 2023July 28, 2023

USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124): Embodying American Strength and the Pursuit of Peace

101123-N-5292M-186 NORFOLK The newly commissioned guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) arrives in its new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk Nov. 23, 2010. The ship is named for Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham, who selflessly sacrificed his life at eh age of 22 in Iraq, April 14, 2004. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie R. Matyascik) (Released).

Dear members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

We are excited to share with you an event that highlights not just the steadfast progress of our naval forces, but also the values and heroism that permeate the proud history of our organization and our country.

On July 29th, the U.S. Navy is set to christen the future USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), a state-of-the-art guided-missile destroyer, at the General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. This momentous event embodies the continued evolution and modernization of our naval capabilities, ensuring our country remains secure and well-protected against potential threats.

In the context of our mission at Americans for a Stronger Navy, events like this further amplify the significance of our work. Our commitment to ensuring a robust, well-equipped Navy is vindicated as we see the christening of such advanced warships. We believe that a stronger navy is vital for maintaining America’s position in the global arena, defending our interests, and securing our nation’s prosperity.

Why does this matter to America and the American people, you may ask? In a world increasingly defined by geopolitical tensions and unpredictable threats, a strong navy serves as a bulwark against such challenges. With the commissioning of USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), we honor not just a war hero, but also the values of bravery, leadership, and sacrifice that he symbolized. These are values that unite us as Americans and remind us of the cost of our security and freedom.

The USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. is more than a guided-missile destroyer – it represents the backbone of our surface fleet, prepared to ensure American safety at all times. It embodies our dedication to the defense of our country and our determination to promote peace.

This event serves as a proud reminder of our mission, and we invite you to join us in celebrating this historic occasion. Together, let’s continue working to strengthen our Navy, uphold our shared values, and safeguard the American dream for future generations.

Best Regards,
Bill, Americans for a Stronger Navy

March 31, 2023March 31, 2023

Navy commissions USS Santa Barbara

The Navy will commission the USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) on April 1, 2023, as the newest Independence-variant littoral combat ship in Port Hueneme, California.

The Independence-variant variant littoral combat ship USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) is in port at Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) for its commissioning ceremony, March 31, 2023. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Drew Verbis)

The ship’s sponsor is Mrs. Lolita Zinke, and the ceremony will feature notable speakers such as Admiral Samuel Paparo and U.S. Representative Julia Brownley.

The #USSSantaBarbara is named after the city with a strong military history and connection with the Navy and Marine Corps.

The ship is part of the LCS class of ships, which consist of two variants, the Freedom and the Independence, designed and built by two industry teams with the Independence-variant team led by Austal USA for LCS 6 and the subsequent even-numbered hulls, including the USS Santa Barbara.

Littoral Combat Ships are fast, mission-tailored surface combatants designed to operate in near-shore and open-ocean environments. USS Santa Barbara is the third U.S. ship to bear the name Santa Barbara, with the previous two being a single-screw steel freighter and a Kilauea-class ammunition ship.

The commissioning ceremony will be live-streamed at www.dvidshub.net/webcast/31155.

March 25, 2023March 25, 2023

Navy Contracts Awarded

(Navy) funds in the amount of $30,925,000 will be obligated at time of award, and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Washington, is the contracting activity.

Raytheon Missiles and Defense, Tucson, Arizona, is awarded a $13,383,172 firm-fixed-price modification to indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract M67854-21-D-0073 for the production and delivery of full-rate production air-to-air launchers (ATAL), item unique identification registration for ATAL systems, and other direct services and supplies in support of the Program Manager Ground-Based Air Defense, Marine Air Defense Integrated System. Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona (66%); and Dine, New Mexico (34%), with an expected completion date of September 2026. Fiscal 2023 procurement (Marine Corps) funds in the amount of $6,684,164 will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Virginia, is the contracting activity (M67854-21-D-0073).

March 10, 2023March 10, 2023

The Unsung Heroes of World War II: The Collaborative Effort of the U.S., the U.K., and Australia in Defeating the Axis Powers

Press reports from Politico reflect that a plan by the United States, Australia, and the U.K are to share submarine technology as part of a strategic effort to counter Chinese naval power in the Pacific. The three countries have agreed to deepen their defense cooperation and share information on the development of new submarines, including advanced propulsion systems and stealth technology. The plan is aimed at strengthening the allies’ ability to detect and deter Chinese submarines, which have become increasingly active in the region. The article also notes that the plan is likely to further strain the already tense relationship between the three allies and China.

Takeaways:

The US, Australia, and the UK plan to share submarine technology as a strategic effort to counter Chinese naval power in the Pacific.
The plan includes deepening defense cooperation and sharing information on the development of new submarines with advanced propulsion systems and stealth technology.
The aim is to strengthen the allies’ ability to detect and deter Chinese submarines that have become increasingly active in the region.
The plan is likely to further strain the already tense relationship between the three allies and China.

The Power of Collaboration: The Story of the U.S., the U.K., and Australia in World War

Historical Context

The U.S., the U.K., and Australia collaborated in World War II to defeat the Axis powers.
The allies faced significant challenges, including the threat posed by German U-boats in the Atlantic.
The U.S. and the U.K. developed a plan to build aircraft carriers capable of tracking and destroying enemy subs
Australia provided the necessary shipbuilding expertise to build two carriers, which played a key role in the final months of the war.
The collaboration between the three nations continued after the war and remains strong today, reflecting the enduring power of collaboration and shared values.
In the early days of World War II, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia came together in a collaborative effort to defeat the Axis powers. The three nations formed an alliance that would prove to be instrumental in turning the tide of the war.

As the war raged on, the Allies faced numerous challenges and setbacks. One of the most significant was the threat posed by German U-boats, which were wreaking havoc on Allied shipping in the Atlantic. To combat this threat, the U.S. and the U.K. came up with a plan to build a new type of vessel – an aircraft carrier that could launch planes capable of tracking and destroying enemy subs.

The U.S. and the U.K. quickly realized that they didn’t have the resources to build these carriers on their own. They needed help from a nation with a strong naval tradition and the necessary shipbuilding expertise. That nation was Australia.

Australia eagerly joined the project and quickly set to work building two of these new carriers – the HMAS Melbourne and the HMAS Sydney. The carriers were launched in 1945 and played a key role in the final months of the war, helping to track down and destroy numerous German U-boats.

The collaboration between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia didn’t end with the war, however. In the years that followed, the three nations continued to work closely together on a wide range of issues, from defense to trade and beyond.

Today, the bond between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia remains strong, a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and the shared values that unite us all.