Submarines are indeed an integral part of the U.S. Navy’s future. Many agree that the United States needs more submarines if it is to deter China in the Indo-Pacific and maintain its maritime superiority.
Submarines are stealthy, survivable, and lethal platforms that can operate in contested waters and deliver precision strikes, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and special operations.
However, the U.S. submarine industrial base is facing serious challenges that threaten its ability to deliver the submarines that the Navy needs on time and on budget.
The submarine industrial base consists of two main shipbuilders — General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding — and hundreds of suppliers across the country that provide parts, materials, and services for submarine construction and maintenance.
The submarine industrial base is struggling to keep up with the growing demand for submarines, which has increased from one Virginia-class attack submarine per year in 2012 to two per year in 2021, plus the addition of the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine program, which is the Navy’s top acquisition priority.
The Navy has recognized the importance of stabilizing and strengthening the submarine industrial base and has taken some actions to address its challenges. However, these actions are not enough.
The submarine industrial base needs more support and investment from Congress, the Department of Defense (DoD), and from our view, especially from the American public if we’re going to get anywhere. Decisions surrounding our national defense and industrial capabilities shouldn’t just be left to policymakers in isolation.
In our history, we’ve seen time and again the profound impact public opinion and support can have on shaping policy decisions. For our submarine industrial base and broader naval defense, public support isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the lynchpin.
While experts can identify problems and policymakers can draft solutions, it’s the collective will of the American people that determines our nation’s priorities.
By becoming informed, involved, and vocal about the importance of a strong and capable Navy, the American public can be the driving force that ensures our naval defense remains robust and prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.
We echo the sentiments of urging Congress and DoD, and we further advocate for the American public to support and invest in the submarine industrial base.
Specifically, we need to:
Raise awareness of the imminent risks facing our naval defense. The U.S. Navy’s capability to deter potential threats, maintain maritime superiority, and ensure national security is at stake. Delays and shortcomings in our submarine and surface fleet programs could leave us vulnerable in a rapidly evolving global security environment.
It’s essential to mobilize public support now for increased funding for both submarine and surface fleet programs alike, including infrastructure, support services, and the often overlooked but equally important logistics.
Invest in education and training in career techical education for shipyard building and management in areas such as welding pipefitting and for naval STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. Beyond immediate funding and infrastructural upgrades, there’s an underlying need to address the skills gap.
If you are interested in learning more about the industrial base, the need for education and training, or supporting our cause, you can find more information at StrongerNavy.org.
Boats collide in South China Sea’s disputed waters. image from video from BBC.
Members and friends of the Americans for a Stronger Navy.
Today, I want to share with you a news story that is relevant and important for the future of U.S. naval power and our alliance with the Philippines.
Key takeaways
• Biden warns China. President Joe Biden has warned China that the US will defend the Philippines in case of any attack in the disputed South China Sea. The comments come days after two collisions between Filipino and Chinese vessels in the contested waters. Mr Biden reiterated his “ironclad” defense commitment to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty, which binds the US and the Philippines to defend each other in the event of an armed attack.
• Philippines contests China’s claims The Philippines has contested China’s claims to most of the South China Sea, which are based on a vague historical map known as the nine-dash line. The Philippines has also cut floating barriers and invited media to film what it calls Beijing’s dangerous moves at sea. The Philippines says that China’s “dangerous manoeuvres” have led to a collision between a China coast guard ship and a Filipino supply boat, and another incident where a Chinese militia boat “bumped” a Philippine coast guard vessel. The Filipino boats were on their way to a crumbling navy warship that Manila has marooned at the Second Thomas Shoal to reinforce its claims.
• Congress critical to AUKUS success Mr Biden also urged Congress to approve this year legislative proposals related to AUKUS, the defense technology partnership with Australia and Britain that involves supplying Australia with nuclear-powered submarines. Mr Biden said that AUKUS would enhance the US-Australia-UK partnership in developing and sharing advanced technologies, such as cyber, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and undersea capabilities. The legislative proposals include authorizing transfer of submarines to Australia, allowing maintenance of US submarines in Australia and Britain, authorizing Australian funding for US shipyards and training of Australian workers, and streamlining defense trade between AUKUS partners.
Why this matters
This news story matters because it shows that the US is committed to maintaining its presence and influence in the South China Sea, which is a vital waterway for global trade, security, and stability.
The South China Sea is also a flashpoint for potential conflict between China and its neighbors, especially the Philippines, which is an important strategic ally of the US. The US Navy has been conducting freedom of navigation operations and joint exercises with its allies and partners in the region to challenge China’s claims and actions.
The US has also been pursuing new initiatives, such as AUKUS, to enhance its naval capabilities and cooperation with its allies.
Why Americans should care
Americans should care about this news story because it affects their national interests and values. The South China Sea is not only a strategic waterway, but also a rich source of natural resources, such as fish, oil, gas, and minerals. The US has an interest in ensuring that these resources are shared equitably and peacefully among the claimant states, and not monopolized by China. The US also has an interest in upholding international law and norms, such as freedom of navigation and overflight, peaceful resolution of disputes, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The US also has an interest in strengthening its alliances and partnerships in the region, such as with the Philippines, Australia, and Britain, which share its democratic values and vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Welcome back to our series: From Depths to Skies: Exploring the Future Landscape of U.S. Naval Power. In this series, we aim to inform and engage our members and friends on behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy. We examine the current and future challenges and opportunities for the U.S. Navy in maintaining its global leadership and superiority in the maritime domain.
In the previous segment, we focused on the submarine fleet, one of the most important and complex elements of the U.S. naval power. We discussed its role, capabilities, and plans for modernization and acquisition. We also reviewed some of the reports and studies that have been published on this topic and provided our own analysis and recommendations.
In this segment, we will shift our attention to the submarine industrial base, which is the backbone of the submarine fleet. We will explore how the AUKUS defense technology partnership, which involves supplying Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, will affect the U.S. submarine industrial base and its ability to meet the demand for both domestic and foreign submarines. We will also look at how Congress and industry are responding to this challenge and what are some of the potential benefits and risks of this deal.
Proposed Funding for Submarine Industrial Base
On October 22, 2023, President Joe Biden submitted a supplemental budget request to Congress, which earmarks $3.4 billion for further investments in the U.S. submarine industrial base. This funding is intended to improve the build and sustainment rates for attack submarines in order to meet U.S. military requirements, and to support the commitments under AUKUS.
The supplemental budget request comes after 25 U.S. Republican lawmakers urged Biden in July to increase funding for the U.S. submarine fleet, saying that the plan under AUKUS to sell Australia Virginia-class nuclear-power submarines would “unacceptably weaken” the U.S. fleet without a clear plan to replace them.
The U.S. Navy also supports the supplemental budget request, saying that it is “critical” to ensure that the submarine industrial base can deliver both Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines on time and on budget. The Navy also says that AUKUS will “strengthen our ability to deter aggression, defend our interests, and maintain our technological edge”.
Key Takeaways from Congressional Hearing
On October 25, 2023, a subcommittee of the House of Representatives Armed Services Committee held a hearing on AUKUS and its implications for the U.S. submarine industrial base. The hearing featured testimony from Mara Karlin, acting deputy under secretary of defense for policy; Vice Admiral William Houston, commander of the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force; Rear Admiral Scott Pappano, program executive officer for Columbia-class submarines; and Rear Admiral David Goggins, program executive officer for submarines.
Some of the key takeaways from the hearing are:
• AUKUS contributes to building a more robust defense industrial base ecosystem that contributes to integrated deterrence; and … the submarine industrial base can and will support AUKUS.
• Congress is critical to the success of AUKUS, and needs to approve four legislative proposals this year: authorizing transfer of submarines to Australia; allowing maintenance of U.S. submarines in Australia and Britain; authorizing Australian funding for U.S. shipyards and training of Australian workers; and streamlining defense trade between AUKUS partners.
• The U.S. submarine industry is hoping to increase its production rate from 1.2 Virginia-class submarines per year to two – this on top of one Columbia-class submarine – but faces challenges such as supply chain fragility, labor shortages, and cost overruns.
• The AUKUS deal will require sharing sensitive U.S. technology with Australia and Britain, which poses risks such as leakage, espionage, or reverse engineering by adversaries or third parties.
• “AUKUS is an unprecedented opportunity to deepen our cooperation with two of our closest allies in developing cutting-edge capabilities that will ensure our collective security well into this century.” – Mara Karlin
• “This funding is critical to improve build and sustainment rates for attack submarines in order to meet U.S. military requirements, and will also support our commitments under AUKUS.” – Joint statement by Navy representatives
• “The fact is, the supply chain still remains very fragile. Any additional funding and support, whether it’s through the supplemental or other Navy support would be extremely helpful.” – Jason Aiken, General Dynamics’ chief financial officer
• “We are confident that we have the appropriate measures in place to protect our technology as we move forward with this initiative.” – Vice Admiral William Houston
• “The administration’s plan to sell Virginia-class submarines to Australia will unacceptably weaken our own submarine fleet without a clear plan to replace them. … The administration has not provided any evidence that our submarine industrial base can handle this additional workload without jeopardizing our own submarine programs.” – Representative Rob Wittman, ranking member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces.
Where We Stand
AUKUS deal is still being debated and negotiated by the governments and parliaments of the three countries involved: Australia, the UK, and the US. The deal also faces opposition and criticism from some other countries and groups, such as France, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Zealand, some Australian political parties and unions, some US lawmakers and analysts, and some environmental and anti-war activists.
The AUKUS deal has two main components: one is to help Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines, and the other is to enhance joint capabilities and interoperability in areas such as cyber, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and undersea capabilities.
The first component is expected to take at least 18 months of consultation and planning before the actual construction of the submarines can begin. The US plans to sell between three and five Virginia-class submarines to Australia in the 2030s, before Australia starts building its own submarines in the 2040s. The US Navy and the US submarine industry are hoping to increase their production rate to meet the demand for both domestic and foreign submarines, but they face challenges such as supply chain fragility, labor shortages, cost overruns, and technology protection.
The second component is intended to foster deeper information sharing and technology sharing among the three AUKUS partners, but it also requires streamlining defense trade and export controls between them. The US Congress needs to approve four legislative proposals this year to authorize the transfer of submarines to Australia, to allow maintenance of US submarines in Australia and Britain, to authorize Australian funding for US shipyards and training of Australian workers, and to simplify defense trade between AUKUS partners.
The AUKUS deal is a historic and strategic initiative that aims to enhance the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. However, it also poses significant challenges and risks for the three countries involved and their allies and partners. The deal will require substantial investments, coordination, and oversight from the governments, parliaments, militaries, industries, and publics of the three countries.
Conclusion
The AUKUS deal is a historic and strategic initiative that aims to enhance the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. However, it also poses significant challenges and risks for the U.S. submarine industrial base, which is already under pressure to deliver submarines for the U.S. Navy and its allies. The deal will require substantial investments, coordination, and oversight from Congress, the Pentagon, the Navy, and the industry to ensure that it does not compromise the quality, quantity, or timeliness of the U.S. submarine fleet.
We at Americans for a Stronger Navy believe that AUKUS could be a worthwhile and beneficial endeavor that could strengthen our naval power and our alliances. However, we also acknowledge that there are different views and perspectives on this deal, both within and outside the U.S. We think that it is important to learn more from those who support and those who oppose the deal, and to understand their arguments and concerns. We also think that it is vital to hear from the American public, who ultimately have a stake in the future of our naval force and our national security. Therefore, we invite you to share your opinions and feedback on AUKUS with us, and to join the conversation on this topic with your fellow Americans.
• Some Republican lawmakers, such as Representative Rob Wittman, the ranking member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces. He said that the plan to sell Virginia-class submarines to Australia would “unacceptably weaken our own submarine fleet without a clear plan to replace them” and that the administration has not provided any evidence that the submarine industrial base can handle the additional workload. Click here to review additional detail.
• Some defense analysts, such as Bryan Clark, a former Navy strategist and senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. He said that selling submarines to Australia would reduce the number of attack submarines available to the U.S. Navy and that the Navy should prioritize building its own next-generation attack submarine (SSN-X) before exporting it. Click here for additional detail.
Some of the groups and individuals who are concerned about U.S. technology getting into the wrong hands are:
• Some Democratic lawmakers, such as Senator Edward Markey, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He said that he was “deeply concerned” about the potential for nuclear proliferation and leakage of sensitive technology as a result of the AUKUS deal and that he would seek assurances from the administration that it would not undermine the global nonproliferation regime. Click here for additional detail.
• Some former U.S. officials, such as Richard Armitage, a former deputy secretary of state under George W. Bush. He said that he was “very nervous” about sharing nuclear propulsion technology with Australia and Britain and that he feared that it could be compromised by China or other adversaries. Click here for additional detail.
The AUKUS deal, which involves supplying Australia with nuclear-powered submarines, has sparked a heated debate among various stakeholders in the U.S. and abroad. Some of them have expressed opposition or concern about the deal, based on different reasons and perspectives. For example, some Republican lawmakers, such as Representative Rob Wittman, argue that the deal would weaken the U.S. submarine fleet and industrial base, without a clear plan to replace the submarines sold to Australia. Some defense analysts, such as Bryan Clark, suggest that the deal would reduce the availability of attack submarines for the U.S. Navy and that the Navy should prioritize building its own next-generation submarine (SSN-X) before exporting it. Some Democratic lawmakers, such as Senator Edward Markey, are worried about the potential for nuclear proliferation and leakage of sensitive technology as a result of the deal and seek assurances from the administration that it would not undermine the global nonproliferation regime. Some former U.S. officials, such as Richard Armitage, are nervous about sharing nuclear propulsion technology with Australia and Britain and fear that it could be compromised by China or other adversaries.
We will continue to monitor and report on this topic as it unfolds. We invite you to follow along and read more reports and studies on this topic as we delve deeper into this important and timely issue. We also welcome your feedback and suggestions as we seek to inform and engage our members and friends on behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy. The time to act is now. Stay tuned for more updates soon.
As the USS Mount Whitney, the Navy’s primary command-and-control ship in Europe, departs for the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, it joins a broader U.S. military buildup in the region. This deployment comes in the wake of intensified conflicts, as the U.S. lends its support to Israel during its ongoing engagement with Hamas. Such actions reiterate the Navy’s commitment to allies and the pivotal role maritime diplomacy plays in global geopolitics.
Comprehensive Maritime Power
The partnership between U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners showcases the harmony of military and civilian efforts. Their combined efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area are a testament to the multifaceted strength of our naval forces.
Building and Sustaining Relationships
For over eight decades, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has cultivated strategic relationships. Shared values form the bedrock of these alliances, contributing immensely to regional security and stability.
Diverse Operations, Singular Goal
While the U.S. Sixth Fleet is involved in a spectrum of joint and naval operations, its prime directive remains clear: safeguarding U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa. By operating in these areas, the Navy is a beacon of stability and assurance.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
Our Navy’s continued efforts in Europe and Africa underscore a fundamental belief: peace is achieved not by retreat but by a balanced show of strength and diplomacy. As members and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we firmly stand by the principle of “peace through strength.” In championing a stronger Navy, we’re not advocating for conflict; we’re championing the most effective route to sustained peace.
Let us continue our support for our naval forces as they sail forward, fostering connections and ensuring the seas remain free and secure for all.
Hello, and welcome to the latest edition of our blog, where we share news and stories related to the U.S. Navy and its allies.
Today, we have a special story submitted by Dave L from North Carolina, who spotted a rare sight in Hampton Roads harbor: Britain’s largest aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales. Thank you, Captain Dave L . of North Carolina for sharing this with us!
HMS Prince of Wales is a state-of-the-art warship that is visiting the U.S. for the next few months. It will be based at Naval Station Norfolk and will conduct joint exercises with the U.S. Navy. This is a great opportunity for our two navies to strengthen their cooperation and interoperability, as well as to showcase their capabilities and technologies.
HMS Prince of Wales is the second of two Queen Elizabeth class carriers built by the U.K., and it was commissioned in 2019. It is 280 meters long and can carry up to 40 aircraft, including F-35B stealth fighters, Merlin helicopters, and MV-22 Ospreys. It has a distinctive light blue color and two “islands” on its deck: one for navigation and flight control, and one for ship operations and command. It also has a “ski jump” on the bow, which helps the aircraft take off with a short runway.
HMS Prince of Wales is powered by Rolls Royce gas turbine engines, which provide electricity for propulsion and other systems. It does not have nuclear reactors like the U.S. carriers, but it can still operate for long periods without refueling. It also has a high degree of automation and digitalization, which reduces the crew size and increases efficiency.
HMS Prince of Wales is designed to be a versatile and adaptable platform that can perform various missions, such as carrier strike, air defense, amphibious assault, humanitarian aid, or diplomacy. It can also operate with different types of aircraft and drones, depending on the situation and the partner nation. For example, it can launch Mojave drones, which are unmanned aerial vehicles that can carry supplies, surveillance equipment, or weapons.
HMS Prince of Wales is not only a powerful asset for the U.K., but also a valuable ally for the U.S. The two navies have a long history of working together and sharing common values and interests. They are also part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which includes Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Together, they aim to promote peace and security in the world.
While in Norfolk, HMS Prince of Wales will train with the U.S. Navy in various scenarios and environments. It will also test its compatibility with the U.S. aircraft and systems, such as the Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft, which can fly faster, higher, and longer than the British helicopters.
The two navies will also exchange personnel and expertise to learn from each other. HMS Prince of Wales is an impressive sight to behold in Hampton Roads harbor, and we are honored to have it as our guest. We hope you enjoyed this story and learned something new about our British friends. If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to leave them below. And if you have any stories or photos of your own that you would like to share please contact us by clicking here.
We would love to hear from you! Thank you for reading our blog and supporting our cause. Until next time, Americans for a Stronger Navy
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
USS Louisiana (SSBN-743) The Trident II (D5LE) missile
Introduction:
In the rapidly evolving world of military technology, the U.S. Navy continues to be a beacon of excellence and reliability. The recent missile test flight from USS Louisiana (SSBN-743) serves as a testament to the unmatched capabilities of the Trident II strategic weapon system. Let’s delve into what this means for the Navy and the nation.
Why This Matters:
With maritime territories becoming more contested and the global political climate continually shifting, it’s vital for the U.S. to maintain a clear edge in strategic deterrence. A successful test such as this underscores our commitment to peace through strength.
Key Takeaways:
Consistent Track Record: The recent test from the USS Louisiana marks the 191st successful missile launch of the Trident II (D5 & D5LE) since its inception in 1989. This consistency is unparalleled and showcases the reliability of American defense systems.
State-of-the-Art Technology: The Trident II (D5LE) missile is a life-extended version of its predecessor, symbolizing the U.S. Navy’s commitment to technological upgrades and maintaining its edge in naval warfare.
Strategic Deterrence: The success of the Trident II missile program sends a clear message to potential adversaries about the U.S.’s capability and readiness to defend its interests, allies, and global peace.
A Testament to the Crew: Behind every successful test is a dedicated crew, like that aboard the USS Louisiana. Their expertise, training, and commitment play an integral role in these achievements.
Strengthening Global Alliances: Successful tests and advancements in strategic weapons systems bolster the confidence of U.S. allies and partners, strengthening international alliances and cooperative defense strategies.
Forward-Looking Approach: The Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs emphasize not just current capabilities but also future readiness. The regular testing and upgrading of systems like Trident II ensure the U.S. remains prepared for tomorrow’s challenges.
Conclusion:
The unmatched reliability of the Trident II missile system, as demonstrated by the USS Louisiana, is more than just a technological marvel. It represents the diligence, expertise, and forward-thinking approach of the U.S. Navy. As we reflect on this successful test, we are reminded of the immense responsibility and capability our naval forces carry, ensuring a safer world for all.
To the esteemed members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,
An impactful maritime exercise recently took place in the Gulf of Oman, marking a significant stride in naval coordination. Two A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, colloquially known as Warthogs, teamed up with the USS Stethem (DDG-63) in an integrated Air Operation in Maritime Surface Warfare.
Key Takeaways:
Enhanced Naval Coordination:
The recent exercise showcased the two Warthogs from the Air Force’s 75th Fighter Squadron cooperating with USS Stethem.
A live surface combat air patrol was conducted which involved joint fires against surface threats, emphasizing the potential of improving tactical proficiency.
The Versatility of Warthogs:
Originally designed to confront Soviet tanks from the sky, the Warthogs boast a massive GAU-8 Avenger 30 mm cannon capable of firing at an extraordinary rate.
While their primary function in recent times has been infantry close air support during conflicts like those in Iraq and Afghanistan, they’ve also demonstrated maritime capabilities.
Growing Importance of Joint Exercises:
Such exercises have been a recurring theme. Earlier this year, the Air Force dispatched A-10s to the Middle East due to increasing Iranian disruptions to oil traffic. Moreover, joint Air Force-Navy operations have been frequent over the past year, reinforcing the importance of inter-service coordination.
Dale A. Jenkins, author of “Diplomats and Admirals” and Senior advisor to the Americans for a Stronger Navy, aptly articulates:
“The coordination between a U.S. Navy Destroyer and the Warthog Air Force attack plane is an example of specialized actions that should be taking place. They make the Navy stronger by participating in more active missions. The challenge for the Navy is to initiate such coordinated missions and thereby lead the effort, not wait to be invited. This is particularly important now when the Navy has only one of eleven of the unified combatant commands.” Jenkins further adds that had decisions gone differently regarding leadership roles, the Navy could have been at a more precarious position concerning the Indo-PAC command
Conclusion:
The recent joint exercise between the Warthogs and the USS Stethem serves as a testament to the potential and necessity of inter-service collaboration. In an era where naval strength and presence are paramount, these initiatives should be celebrated and further encouraged. As Jenkins emphasized, proactive leadership and coordination in such operations are vital for the Navy to retain its commanding position in the global arena.
This exercise marks the sixth iteration of the joint and combined AOMSW between U.S. Navy and Air Force this year. Previous exercises incorporated the Air Force Two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft operate alongside USS Bataan (LHD 5) & USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) in the Gulf of Oman, in August; An A-10 firing a 30mm practice rounds on a practice target on the surface of the water in July 10; A U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft, two United States Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft, & three U.S. Coast Guard cutters with embarked U.S. Marine Corps joint terminal attack controllers, trained together in the Arabian Gulf, April 28; Guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) and an HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter conducted joint operations in the Gulf of Aden, April 2.
USS Stethem is are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region. The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses nearly 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandeb.
Introduction: In the vast expanse of global waters, maritime security plays an indispensable role in fostering stability, ensuring the free flow of commerce, and preserving national interests. As advocates for a robust and capable naval force with the “Americans for a Stronger Navy,” we consistently emphasize the need for nations to collaborate in the maritime domain. The recent move by ASEAN nations to conduct their first joint naval exercise near the contentious waters of the South China Sea serves as a testament to the value of cooperative maritime endeavors and presents an important lesson for naval forces worldwide
Analysis of the Southeast Asia Joint Navy Drills Near the South China Sea
The commencement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) first joint naval exercise represents a significant and potentially transformative moment in regional geopolitics, particularly in the context of the South China Sea. Here’s why:
Unified ASEAN Front: Historically, ASEAN nations have navigated the complexities of their relationships with major global powers, such as the U.S. and China, often individually rather than as a unified bloc. This first-ever joint exercise, specifically involving only ASEAN nations, suggests a stronger, more unified approach to regional security challenges.
Strategic Timing & Location: The choice of conducting drills in Indonesia’s Natuna waters, which lie close to the South China Sea, is noteworthy. Given the territorial disputes and increasing Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea, these drills communicate a clear message: ASEAN nations are prepared to collaboratively address regional security challenges.
Holistic Approach to Security: The ASEAN Solidarity Exercise isn’t just a demonstration of military prowess. By incorporating search and rescue operations, humanitarian relief, and disaster prevention, ASEAN is emphasizing its commitment to broader regional stability and the well-being of its citizens.
Civil-Military Synergy: The involvement of civilian groups in disaster prevention and humanitarian relief reflects an intention to foster civil-military collaboration. This synergy can significantly amplify the efficacy of such exercises and underscores the bloc’s holistic approach to regional challenges.
Implicit Signal to China: While ASEAN has been careful not to overtly antagonize China, the drills, especially being the first of their kind, can be perceived as a subtle yet firm signal. The bloc is demonstrating that while they seek peaceful and cooperative relations, they also prioritize their collective security and sovereignty.
Boosting Interoperability: Enhancing interoperability is crucial for any collective defense or response initiative. By conducting these joint exercises, ASEAN nations are laying the groundwork for smoother coordination in the face of future crises, whether they be natural disasters or man-made conflicts.
In conclusion, the ASEAN Solidarity Exercise is more than a routine military drill. It is a strategic, well-timed demonstration of ASEAN’s evolving role in regional geopolitics, emphasizing collective security, diplomacy, and a unified front in the face of potential adversities.
Conclusion: The ASEAN Solidarity Exercise, as observed by the “Americans for a Stronger Navy,” embodies the very principles we champion: unity in the face of challenges, the holistic approach to maritime security, and the seamless integration of civil and military assets for a common purpose. As ASEAN nations pave the way for a more cooperative and unified regional maritime strategy, it offers a blueprint for other naval forces around the world. We believe that such exercises underscore the importance of a well-prepared and collaborative naval force in safeguarding not just regional, but global interests. The seas connect us all, and in these waters, unity and strength will always chart the course for a safer, more prosperous future.
The global maritime landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with China rapidly emerging as a dominant naval power. The implications of this shift have profound consequences for the United States and its position in the world. Recent revelations from a leaked US Navy briefing slide provide alarming insights into the trajectory of China’s naval capabilities and ambitions.
Key Takeaways
China’s Overwhelming Shipbuilding Capacity
China’s shipyards boast a capacity of over 23.2 million tons, a staggering 232 times greater than the US’s capacity, which is less than 100,000 tons.
About 70% of China’s shipbuilding revenue is derived from naval production, while nearly 95% of American shipbuilding revenue is attributed to naval production.
China currently commands the world’s largest navy with more than 355 vessels, including an array of combatant ships, submarines, and other essential naval assets.
By 2025, China’s naval fleet is anticipated to encompass 400 ships and is further projected to expand to 440 ships by 2030. In contrast, the US naval fleet is expected to hover between 305 and 317 ships.
China’s fervent naval expansion is fueled by its strategic aspirations to establish itself as a global superpower and challenge the US’s supremacy in the Indo-Pacific realm.
The sheer magnitude of China’s shipbuilding prowess and its burgeoning naval fleet poses grave challenges to the US’s strategic interests and its longstanding dominance in the Indo-Pacific region. In the face of such rapid naval ascendance by China, it’s imperative for the United States to adopt robust measures to bolster its naval capabilities. As members and subscribers of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, the call to action is clear: Advocate for greater investments in the US Navy to ensure it remains a formidable force in the years to come.
