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.

Posted on

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

USS Zumwalt

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.

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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).

Posted on

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.

Posted on

US Navy Reviews Cost-Saving Design Changes Before Resuming Amphibious Assault Ship Purchases

USS America (LHA-6) sailing in 2018.

The US Navy is reviewing cost-saving design changes before resuming amphibious assault ship purchases according to Defense News. The review comes after concerns were raised about the cost of these ships, which have seen a significant increase in price due to various factors. The Navy is looking at ways to reduce costs, including changing the design of the ships and exploring other options. The goal is to find a way to build the ships at a more reasonable cost while still meeting the Navy’s needs for amphibious warfare capabilities. The review is ongoing, and no decisions have been made yet regarding resuming amphibious assault ship purchases.

Takeaways

* The cost of these ships has increased significantly, prompting concerns.
* The Navy is exploring ways to reduce costs while still meeting its needs for amphibious warfare capabilities.
* No decisions have been made yet regarding resuming amphibious assault ship purchases.

In September of 2021, BreakingcDefense reported that, Senate lawmakers are continuing a years-long endeavor to “encourage” the Navy into adapting a multi-year procurement strategy to buy amphibious ships, with this year’s version of its defense policy bill directing the Navy secretary to provide a business case analysis to prove if the strategy has merit the article said.

“The committee believes that a block buy, multi-ship, or multiyear procurement approach for LPD-17 Flight II-class amphibious transport ships and LHA-10 would provide substantial cost savings as well as needed stability and predictability for the shipbuilder and its vendor base,” according to a report accompanying the Senate Armed Services Committee’s draft defense policy bill, known as the fiscal year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act.

Posted on

Navy Adopts Augmented Reality and Awards Contract

ThirdEye Gen, a provider of augmented and mixed reality solutions, has won a contract from the US Navy to enhance its operations with augmented reality technology. The company will provide its X2 MR Glasses and software platform to enable hands-free access to critical information in real-time. The technology will improve situational awareness, reduce errors, and enhance the overall performance of Navy personnel. The contract marks a significant milestone for ThirdEye Gen as it expands its presence in the defense industry.

Why does this matter?

The US Navy has recognized the potential benefits of augmented reality technology in enhancing its operations. With the use of ThirdEye Gen’s X2 MR Glasses and software platform, Navy personnel can access critical information in real-time and hands-free, which improves their situational awareness and reduces errors. The technology can also enhance the overall performance of Navy personnel, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations.

How does Augmented Reality work?

Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information or virtual objects onto the real-world environment in real-time. It’s different from virtual reality (VR) which creates a completely immersive, computer-generated environment.

AR can be experienced through devices like smartphones, tablets, or special glasses that use cameras, sensors, and software to superimpose digital content on the user’s view of the physical world. This can include anything from 3D models and animations to text, images, and videos.

AR has a wide range of applications, from gaming and entertainment to education, healthcare, and manufacturing. It can also be used for training and simulation purposes, as well as in military and defense operations to enhance situational awareness and decision-making capabilities.

Posted on

Delivery of USNS John Canley

Expeditionary sea base USNS John L. Canley (ESB-6), Military Sealift Command’s newest ship, at its christening ceremony at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego, Calif.

The US Navy has taken delivery of USNS John L. Canley (ESB 6), an ESB-class ship designed for various military operations such as Airborne Mine Counter Measures, Special Operations Force operations, Crisis Response Sea-basing, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, and Unmanned Aviation Systems operations. The ESB-class ships have a flight deck capable of supporting MH-53E helicopters, accommodations, workspaces, and ordnance storage for embarked forces, and enhanced command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence. The ship is part of the critical access infrastructure that supports the deployment of forces. The future USS Robert E. Simanek (ESB 7) is currently under construction at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego.

Posted on

US Navy has taken delivery of its fourth Lewis B Puller-class expeditionary

The US Navy has taken delivery of its fourth Lewis B Puller-class expeditionary sea base (ESB) ship, USNS John L Canley. The ship was handed over to the Navy during a ceremony at General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company’s (GD-NASSCO) shipyard in San Diego. The ESB ships are designed to act as critical infrastructure to support equipment supply and deployment of forces at sea. The highly flexible vessels can perform a wide range of military operations, including Special Operations Force missions, crisis response sea-basing, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations. The new ship is named in honour of former US Marine Corps gunnery sergeant John L Canley.

General Dynamics NASSCO has been designing and building ships in San Diego’s industrial corridor since 1960 and is the only full-service shipyard on the West Coast of the United States.

Today, General Dynamics NASSCO has locations on both the West and East Coasts. The company specializes in the design and construction of auxiliary and support ships for the U.S. Navy and oil tankers and dry cargo carriers for commercial markets. It is also a major provider of repair services for the U.S. Navy’s global force for good, with capabilities in San Diego, Norfolk, Mayport, and Bremerton.

General Dynamics NASSCO is one of three shipyards in the Marine Systems group of General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE: GD). General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies

8 East Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92113
Main: (619) 544-3400
Fax: (619) 544-3541