Peace Through Strength – Community Driven – Membership Supported
Category: U.S. Navy News
Covering U.S. naval news is crucial for the members of the Americans for a Stronger Navy as it keeps them informed of the latest developments, initiatives, and challenges faced by the Navy. This information enables them to advocate for policies that support a stronger and more capable Navy, including increased funding, modernization, and recruitment efforts. Additionally, following naval news helps them to engage with the public and raise awareness about the critical role the Navy plays in protecting national security interests and promoting global stability.
Photo shows the dhow transporting Iranian weapons to Houthi forces in Yemen. Photo: U.S. Central Command
A Perspective for Americans for a Stronger Navy
In the ever-evolving landscape of global maritime security, the U.S. Navy remains a pivotal force in maintaining the safety and order of international waters. The recent U.S. Navy operation, reported by Fox News offers a compelling example of this critical role.
A Decisive Operation in the Arabian Sea
On January 11, 2024, U.S. Navy SEALs aboard the USS LEWIS B PULLER, supported by helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), executed a complex night-time boarding of a dhow near the coast of Somalia. This operation, as detailed by news outlets resulted in the seizure of Iranian-made ballistic and cruise missile components intended for Houthi forces in Yemen. This significant interdiction not only disrupts the plans of those seeking to destabilize the region but also safeguards innocent mariners and vital shipping lanes.
The High Stakes of Maritime Security
The seized weapons, which include propulsion, guidance, and warheads for medium-range ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles, have been employed by the Houthis in their attacks against international merchant ships in the Red Sea. This seizure marks the first of its kind since the beginning of Houthi attacks against merchant ships in November 2023 and the first seizure of Iranian-manufactured advanced missile components by the U.S. Navy since November 2019. This operation underlines the Navy’s crucial role in enforcing international law and UN Security Resolution 2216.
The Cost of Vigilance
Tragically, this operation also involved the loss of two brave U.S. Navy SEALs, as reported by U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM). Their sacrifice is a stark reminder of the risks our service members face in securing our seas and the importance of supporting our naval forces.
The Broader Context: Iran’s Involvement
As news reports, the operation sheds light on Iran’s continued shipment of advanced lethal aid to the Houthis, a clear violation of U.N. Security Resolution 2216 and international law. This situation highlights the broader geopolitical challenges in the region and the need for a strong naval presence to counter such destabilizing activities.
Moving Forward
As members and friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we must advocate for a well-equipped and robust naval force. The recent operations by the USS LEWIS B PULLER are a testament to the Navy’s commitment to global maritime security. Let us continue to support our Navy in its crucial mission to maintain peace and stability on the high seas.
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.
Welcome to the Members and Friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy!
As we continue to advocate for a robust and formidable naval force, it’s essential to remember and honor the heroes who have exemplified the very essence of bravery and dedication in the history of the United States Navy.
Today, we turn the spotlight on an extraordinary figure: Charles Jackson French, a Navy hero whose story of valor during World War II continues to inspire.
The Night of Valor: USS Gregory and the Battle of Guadalcanal
On the night of September 4, 1942, the crew of the high-speed transport USS Gregory (APD 3) found themselves in a perilous situation. Patrolling between Savo Island and Guadalcanal, they encountered Japanese destroyers.
The USS Gregory, caught in a fierce battle and outgunned, began to sink, setting the stage for an incredible act of heroism.
Charles Jackson French: Early Life and Navy Career
Charles Jackson French, born on September 25, 1919, in Foreman, Arkansas, joined the Navy as a Mess Attendant—a position then largely designated for black men. His journey in the Navy brought him to the decks of USS Houston (CA-30) and, eventually, the USS Gregory.
A Hero Emerges Amidst Tragedy
As the USS Gregory sank, Mess Attendant 1st Class French took action that would etch his name in history. In a remarkable feat of endurance and courage, he swam through shark-infested waters for hours, towing a raft filled with injured shipmates. His bravery and strength saved the lives of more than a dozen sailors.
Legacy and Recognition.
The heroic actions of Charles Jackson French were not only a testament to his character but also a symbol of hope and resilience for the Navy community. In recognition, a rescue swimming training pool at Naval Base San Diego was dedicated in his honor in May 2022, immortalizing his legacy.
Conclusion
Charles Jackson French’s story is a powerful reminder of the courage and determination that run deep in the veins of our naval heroes. It is these qualities that Americans for a Stronger Navy continues to champion and uphold. We encourage our members and friends to carry on the legacy of heroes like French, ensuring our Navy remains strong, resilient, and ever-vigilant.
Adm. Lisa Franchetti released her priorities in a paper titled “America’s Warfighting Navy,” at the Surface Navy Association’s National Symposium,
Introduction: A New Era of Naval Dominance
In an era of increasing global challenges, the United States Navy remains a cornerstone of American military might.
Recently, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti unveiled her vision for the future of the Navy in a seminal paper titled “America’s Warfighting Navy.”
This document, presented at the Surface Navy Association’s National Symposium, outlines a strategic approach that reinforces the Navy’s role in maintaining peace and ensuring the nation’s security.
Who We Are: The World’s Most Powerful Navy
Adm. Franchetti’s paper begins by affirming the identity of the U.S. Navy. It emphasizes the character, competence, and dedication of its personnel, underlining the Navy’s commitment to serve with honor, courage, and commitment.
What We Do: Guardians of Peace and Victory
The Navy’s primary roles are detailed next – preserving peace, responding in crises, and achieving decisive victories in war. The document highlights the Navy’s global reach, from the seabed to space, and underscores its readiness to deter aggression and provide strategic options to national leaders.
Where We Are Going: Adapting to Emerging Threats
The evolving strategic environment, with the rise of competitors like China and Russia, necessitates a rapid and innovative adaptation of naval capabilities. The paper stresses the need for the Navy to continuously create warfighting advantages through new technologies and strategies, preparing for a complex and challenging future battlefield.
Our Priorities: Warfighting, Warfighters, Foundation
Warfighting: The paper insists on a focus on delivering decisive combat power, prioritizing readiness, capabilities, and logistics.
Warfighters: It emphasizes strengthening the Navy team through mission command principles, recruiting, retaining talent, and providing world-class training.
Foundation: Building trust with the American people, aligning resources effectively, and ensuring readiness are highlighted as key foundations for success.
Key Takeaways: A Call to Action for a Stronger Navy
Adaptation and Innovation: The Navy must continuously evolve to meet emerging threats and maintain its global dominance.
Integrated Approach: Collaboration with the Marine Corps, other branches of the military, and international allies is crucial for combined lethality.
Empowerment and Excellence: Investing in the skills and wellbeing of Navy personnel ensures a ready and capable force.
Conclusion: Charting the Course Forward
Adm. Franchetti’s vision for “America’s Warfighting Navy” is a comprehensive roadmap for maintaining naval supremacy in a rapidly changing world. It’s a call to action for all who serve, as well as for the nation, to support the Navy in its crucial mission.
As she eloquently concludes, “Together we will deliver the Navy the Nation Needs.” Now, more than ever, the time is ripe for unwavering commitment and swift action to ensure a powerful, resilient, and victorious U.S. Navy.
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.
“Any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction: ‘I served in the United States Navy.'” JFK
Hello, members and friends of the Americans For a Stronger Navy. Today, we take a break from our podcast series to honor those who have served our nation with extraordinary bravery and sacrifice.
As part of our Medal of Honor Monday series, we will feature a different Navy hero every week, and share their stories of valor and service with you. We hope that by doing so, we can inspire you to appreciate and support the Navy and its mission, and to learn from the examples of courage and patriotism that these heroes have set in times of war and peace.
This week, we are proud to present Navy Rear Adm. Daniel Judson Callaghan, who commanded ships fighting against a massive enemy force during one of the deadliest battles of World War II. Callaghan did not survive the ordeal, but his leadership, foresight and courage helped lead his sailors to victory. That earned him a posthumous Medal of Honor.
Callaghan was born on 26 July 1890 in Oakland, California. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1911, and served as an engineering officer, an executive officer, and a naval aid to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. By April 1942, he was promoted to rear admiral while commanding the cruiser USS San Francisco.
By November, he was in the middle of the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, where the Allies had retaken the island from the Japanese, who were desperately trying to take it back. On the night of 12 November, Callaghan learned that a large Japanese naval force was heading toward his position, which was in Iron Bottom Sound between Guadalcanal and Savo Island.
The Japanese ships were superior in numbers and in power, but Callaghan decided to engage them with his task force, which consisted of three light cruisers, eight destroyers and two heavy cruisers, including the San Francisco, the task force’s flagship. Hedevised a plan of attack, and led his forces into battle against tremendous odds.
The battle was chaotic and fierce, and the San Francisco was the first to face enemy ships by taking on the Hiei, a Japanese battleship, in a head-on duel. Callaghan and the San Francisco’s commanding officer, Capt. Cassin Young, were both on the ship’s bridge wing directing close-range operations. They were both killed by a shell from the Hiei, but not before they inflicted heavy damage on the enemy ship.
The blast also knocked the ship’s communications officer, Lt. Cmdr. Bruce McCandless, unconscious. When he woke up, he realized Callaghan and Young were gone, so he took command of the ship and the task force, and ordered them to continue their bombardment. He also managed to sink a destroyer and damage two other Japanese vessels.
Eventually, the Japanese admiral, who was commanding the enemy ships, lost his nerve and ordered his crews to withdraw and regroup. The battle was over, and the Allies had won a decisive victory. They had prevented the Japanese from bombarding Henderson Field, the airfield on Guadalcanal, and from delivering troops to the island’s shores. The battle was the last in a series that forced the Japanese to surrender Guadalcanal for good, handing the Allies a strategic victory.
The win came at a heavy price for the Allies, too. Nine U.S. ships were sunk while about a dozen more were damaged. More than 1,700 Americans lost their lives, including Callaghan. He was buried at sea, and his name is listed on the Wall of the Missing at the Manila Cemetery in the Philippines.
On 9 December 1942, his son, Navy Lt. j.g. Daniel J. Callaghan Jr., received the Medal of Honor on his father’s behalf from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. His citation read:
“For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty during action against enemy Japanese forces off Savo Island on the night of 12-13 November 1942. Although out-balanced in strength and numbers by a desperate and determined enemy, Rear Adm. Callaghan, with ingenious tactical skill and superb coordination of the units under his command, led his forces into battle against tremendous odds, thereby contributing decisively to the rout of a powerful invasion fleet, and to the consequent frustration of a formidable Japanese offensive. While faithfully directing close-range operations in the face of furious bombardment by superior enemy fire power, he was killed on the bridge of his flagship.”
Callaghan is a true Navy hero, who exemplified the values of courage, honor, and commitment. He showed us what it means to defend our country and our freedom, even in the face of overwhelming odds and danger. He also showed us what it means to lead and inspire our fellow sailors and our Navy family, even in the midst of chaos and pain. He is a role model and an inspiration for all of us, and we are grateful for his service and his legacy.
We hope that you enjoyed this week’s Medal of Honor Monday, and that you learned something new and valuable from Callaghan’s story. Please join us next week, as we feature another Navy hero who earned the Medal of Honor. Thank you for your attention and your support. Stay safe and stay strong. This is Bill, signing off.
PteroDynamics’ drone can fold its wings to fly like a fixed-wing aircraft in forward flight. (PteroDynamics)
Bill Cullifer, Founder
Hello, and welcome to the Americans for a Stronger Navy blog, where we share the latest news and insights on the U.S. Navy’s mission and operations, and how they affect our national security and interests. My name is Bill Cullifer, and I am a proud founder and supporter of this organization, which advocates for a stronger and more capable U.S. Navy that can deter and defeat any adversary, if needed and can also secure and sustain peace for ourselves and our posterity.
Today, I want to talk to you about a new and exciting technology that the U.S. Navy is exploring, and how it can enhance its logistics and operations in the global maritime domain. I am talking about the Transwing airborne drone, which is a type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that can take off and land vertically, and fly horizontally with high speed and efficiency. The Transwing drone is designed and produced by PteroDynamics, a company based in Los Angeles, California.
The U.S. Navy is always looking for new and innovative ways to enhance its capabilities and to overcome its challenges. One of the latest solutions that the U.S. Navy is exploring is the Transwing drone, a unique and versatile unmanned aerial vehicle that can transform from a fixed-wing aircraft to a rotary-wing aircraft in mid-air. The Transwing drone can also be used for humanitarian, commercial, and recreational purposes, such as delivering supplies, monitoring the environment, and capturing aerial footage.
The Transwing drone has recently demonstrated its potential and performance by completing a series of sea trials with the U.S. Navy. The Transwing drone successfully launched and recovered from the deck of the USNS Burlington, a Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport ship, sailing near Key West, Florida. The Transwing drone also successfully landed on a moving target, which is a critical skill for naval operations.
The Transwing drone is a potential game-changer for the U.S. Navy, as it offers a number of advantages over conventional drones. Some of the advantages are:
• The Transwing drone can take off and land vertically, like a helicopter, which means it does not need a runway or a catapult. This makes it more flexible and adaptable to different environments and situations.
• The Transwing drone can also fly horizontally, like a plane, which means it can fly faster and farther than a helicopter. This makes it more efficient and effective for long-distance missions and operations.
• The Transwing drone can carry up to 500 pounds of cargo, which is more than most drones of its size. This makes it more useful and practical for delivering essential supplies and equipment to remote or inaccessible locations.
• The Transwing drone can operate autonomously or remotely, which means it can reduce the workload and the risk for human operators and pilots. This makes it more reliable and safe for complex and dangerous tasks and scenarios.
Transwing drone is designed and produced by PteroDynamics, a company based in Los Angeles, California.
According to Tim Whitehand, the vice president of engineering at PteroDynamics, the company that developed the Transwing drone, “Participating in The Hybrid Fleet Campaign Event brought us closer to our goal of providing the U.S. Navy with a flexible and scalable shore-to-ship, ship-to-ship, and ship-to-shore automated cargo delivery capability.”
However, the Transwing drone is not without its challenges and drawbacks. Some of the challenges are:
• The Transwing drone is still in its early stages of development and testing, which means it may face some technical issues and glitches that could affect its performance and functionality. For example, the Transwing drone may have difficulties in maintaining stability and control during the transition between the fixed-wing and the rotary-wing modes.
• The Transwing drone is also subject to some operational risks and uncertainties, such as weather conditions, air traffic, and enemy threats. For instance, the Transwing drone may encounter strong winds, turbulence, or interference that could hamper its flight and navigation. The Transwing drone may also be detected, tracked, or attacked by hostile forces that could compromise its mission and security.
• The Transwing drone may also raise some ethical concerns and legal implications, such as the accountability, the responsibility, and the authority of the human operators and the decision-makers. For example, the Transwing drone may pose some dilemmas and conflicts in terms of the use of force, the protection of civilians, and the respect of sovereignty. The Transwing drone may also require some regulations and standards to ensure its compliance and compatibility with the existing laws and norms.
The Transwing drone is a new and powerful solution for naval logistics and operations, as it combines the best features of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. The Transwing drone has shown its capabilities and its potential by completing a series of sea trials with the U.S. Navy, and by demonstrating its ability to launch and recover from a ship, and to land on a moving target.
The Transwing drone also offers a number of advantages over conventional drones, such as flexibility, efficiency, utility, and reliability.
The Transwing drone is still in its development and testing phase, and it will require more research and evaluation to overcome its challenges and to optimize its performance. The Transwing drone is also a source of inspiration and motivation for the next generation of naval leaders, as it shows them the importance and relevance of the U.S. Navy’s mission and strategy, and how they can contribute and make a difference.
A picture shared by US Central Command appears to show a guided missile submarine in the Suez Canal passing under the Al Salam Bridge northeast of Cairo.
Introduction
As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we stand with our brave sailors and Marines who are serving in the Middle East amid the ongoing turmoil and violence. We salute their courage and dedication to protect our nation and our allies from the threats posed by those that would harm us and we pray for their safety.
In a rare and bold move, the US military announced on Sunday that an Ohio-class guided missile submarine had arrived in the Middle East, a clear message of deterrence to our regional adversaries according to press reports.
The Ohio-class submarines are among the most formidable weapons in the US arsenal, capable of carrying up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, each with a 1,000-pound high-explosive warhead. These submarines can deliver a lot of firepower very rapidly and accurately, and no opponent of the US can ignore their presence.
The announcement of the submarine’s arrival in the Middle East is unusual and significant, as the US military rarely discloses the movements or operations of its fleet of ballistic and guided missile subs. The deployment comes as the Biden administration is trying to avoid a broader conflict amid the Israel-Hamas war, and to prevent Iran and its allies from opening new fronts against Israel or attacking US bases and interests in the region.
The submarine’s location and range suggest that it is focused on the threats in and around the Mediterranean, where Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group backed by Iran, has fired rockets and drones at northern Israel, and exchanged fire with Israeli forces on the border.
The submarine could also target the Houthi rebels in Yemen, another Iran-supported group that has launched missiles and drones at Israel from across the Red Sea.
Additionally, the submarine could deter or respond to any aggression from Iran itself, or from its proxies in Syria and Iraq, where they have been firing rockets and drones at US military bases.
The presence of the submarine in the Middle East has important implications for the regional security and stability, as it demonstrates the US commitment and resolve to defend its allies and interests, and to deter or retaliate against any attack.
The submarine also adds to the existing US naval assets in the area, including two carrier strike groups and an amphibious ready group, creating a formidable force that can project power and influence across the region. The submarine’s deployment could also affect the ongoing negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program, as it shows the US willingness and ability to use military force if diplomacy fails.
The submarine’s deployment demonstrates the US commitment and resolve to defend its allies and interests, and to deter or retaliate against any attack. The submarine also adds to the existing US naval assets in the area, creating a formidable force that can project power and influence across the region.
The Ohio-class submarines and the US Navy are vital for the national security and the global peace, as they protect our freedom, preserve our economic prosperity, and keep the seas open and free.
U.S. Has 4 Objectives in Middle Eastsays DOD
The Defense Department currently has four lines of effort in the Middle East, said Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, who briefed the media today.
Protection of U.S. forces and citizens in the region.
Flow of critical security assistance to Israel as it defends against further Hamas terrorist attacks. Coordination with the Israelis to help secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, to include American citizens.
Strengthening of force posture across the region to deter any state or nonstate actors from escalating the crisis beyond Gaza.
Strengthened force posture includes the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Groups, which are currently in the U.S. Central Command area, along with an Ohio-class submarine.
Over the past few weeks there have been attacks by Iranian proxy groups at al-Asad air base, Iraq, and al-Tanf, Syria, on U.S. forces there, Ryder said.
The attacks, by drones and missiles, resulted in several dozen injuries, including a mix of minor injuries and traumatic brain injuries, he said.
Some of those injured didn’t immediately report their condition, he said.
“The reporting data is highly dependent on self-reporting when individual injuries are not visually evident to medical personnel providing care directly following an incident,” he said.
As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we support and advocate for a strong and modern naval force that can meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
We urge you to join us in our mission and to help us spread the word about the importance and value of the US Navy. Together, we can make a difference for our nation and our world through peace by strength.
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.
Hello, everyone. Today, I have some exciting news to share with you: the U.S. Navy has named a captain for a new submarine named USS Arizona, the first ship to bear the name since the loss of the battleship at Pearl Harbor in 1941.
Why this matters
The USS Arizona battleship was one of the most iconic and tragic symbols of World War II. On December 7, 1941, it was attacked and sunk by Japanese aircraft, killing 1,177 sailors and Marines on board. The ship remains at the bottom of Pearl Harbor as a national memorial and a resting place for the fallen heroes.
The new USS Arizona is a Virginia-class nuclear submarine, which is the most advanced attack submarine in the world, with stealth, firepower, and maneuverability. The new USS Arizona is the first U.S. naval vessel to bear the name since the loss of the battleship at Pearl Harbor, and the second Block V boat, which will feature the Virginia Payload Module, enabling it to deliver a wider variety of capabilities.
The new USS Arizona was authorized for construction on December 2, 2019, and its keel was laid on December 7, 2022, at the Quonset Point Facility of General Dynamics Electric Boat in North Kingston, RI.
The sponsor for the new USS Arizona is Nikki Stratton, the granddaughter of Donald Stratton, a Seaman First Class aboard the battleship USS Arizona who survived the attack and reenlisted to serve in World War II. He died in February 2020 at the age of 97.
The first commanding officer of the new USS Arizona is Navy Cmdr. Tom Digan, who was named on October 30, 2023, marking the first time in over eight decades that the U.S. Navy has named a skipper for a ship of the same namesake.
What others are saying:
• Rear Adm. Jonathan Rucker, Program Executive Office, Attack Submarines: “The boats in this class are the most advanced attack submarines ever designed. Their stealth, firepower, and maneuverability are superior to every other attack submarine force in the world. Additionally, Arizona will be the first of the Virginia-class equipped with the Virginia Payload Module, enabling the submarine to deliver an even wider variety of capabilities.”
• Nikki Stratton, sponsor for the new USS Arizona: “The future is unknown. But one thing we do know is that the crew of SSN 803 will stand watch, patrolling the ocean’s depths … She will strike fear into the hearts of our enemies and become a beacon of hope.”
• Cmdr. Tom Digan, first commanding officer of the new USS Arizona: “It is an honor and privilege to be selected as commanding officer of Pre-Commissioning Unit Arizona. I am humbled by this opportunity to lead such an amazing crew as we bring this incredible warship to life.”
This news is a testament to the strength and resilience of our Navy and our nation. The new USS Arizona will carry on the legacy of its predecessor and honor its memory by defending our freedom and security.
I am proud and grateful for the new USS Arizona and its crew. I hope you are too.
