Tag: Submarine Navy

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Open Letter to Dov S. Zakheim: Addressing the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Shortage

USS Idaho (SSN-799)

From the desk of Bill Cullifer, Founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy

Dear Mr. Zakheim,

I recently read your opinion piece in The Hill on October 18, 2024, titled “How the Navy Can Solve Its Submarine Shortage,” with great interest. Dov S. Zakheim, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and vice chairman of the board for the Foreign Policy Research Institute, brings unparalleled expertise to this discussion. As a former undersecretary of Defense (comptroller) and chief financial officer for the Department of Defense from 2001 to 2004, as well as deputy undersecretary of Defense from 1985 to 1987, your insights on defense spending, strategic planning, and military capabilities are invaluable in understanding the complexities of the U.S. Navy’s submarine deficit. 

The challenges the Navy faces in maintaining and expanding its submarine force are central to the security and operational effectiveness of the United States and its allies. At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we have long advocated for solutions to bolster our naval capabilities in light of growing global threats.

Your analysis of the potential for non-nuclear alternatives, including unmanned submarines and diesel-electric options, highlights viable paths for supplementing our fleet. However, after discussing these ideas with Captain Brent Sadler, U.S. Navy (Retired), Senior Fellow for Naval Warfare and Advanced Technology at The Heritage Foundation, a 26-year Navy veteran with extensive operational experience on nuclear-powered submarines and author of U.S. Naval Power in the 21st Century: A New Strategy for Facing the Chinese and Russian Threat, we are convinced that while these alternatives may fill certain gaps, they fall short of meeting the United States’ broader strategic needs. As Captain Sadler pointed out, “only nuclear-powered submarines possess the range, endurance, and strategic capabilities necessary to project power and safeguard the distant maritime choke points critical to both American and Australian interests.” This reality remains just as pertinent today as it was when Australia evaluated its own submarine needs decades ago.

The U.S. Navy’s dependence on nuclear-powered submarines stems not just from their superior endurance but from their ability to maintain forward presence in vital regions like the Indo-Pacific, where distances and operational demands far exceed the capabilities of diesel-electric subs. While unmanned systems like the Manta Ray and smaller ISR variants may enhance the fleet’s flexibility, they cannot replace the strategic depth provided by manned, nuclear-powered vessels.

Moreover, the capital infusion from Australia under the AUKUS agreement is a critical step toward increasing the production rates of Virginia-class submarines. Yet, as you astutely noted, even with this funding, workforce and industrial base shortages present formidable hurdles. The U.S. Navy must prioritize workforce development and shipyard modernization to accelerate production timelines and meet both our own force requirements and our commitments to allies like Australia.

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe in advocating for a multifaceted approach—one that includes continued investments in nuclear-powered submarines, increased collaboration with our allies, and targeted support for the U.S. industrial base to reduce delays in production. This will allow us to respond effectively to the twin challenges posed by China and Russia, while also maintaining readiness in other volatile regions like the Middle East.

In conclusion, while unmanned and non-nuclear options can and should play a role in the future of undersea warfare, nuclear submarines remain the backbone of our strategy. We must remain steadfast in building and maintaining a fleet capable of meeting the global challenges of the 21st century.

Thank you again for your insightful analysis, and I look forward to further discussions on this critical topic.

Sincerely,
Bill Cullifer
Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy

Note: I am not a paid spokesperson for any organization. My statements reflect my personal commitment to strengthening the U.S. Navy and advocating on behalf of those who serve.

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A Historic Milestone: Delivery of the First Coed Virginia-Class Submarine

. The Virginia and the rest of the ships of its class are designed specifically to incorporate emergent technologies that will provide new capabilities to meet new threats.î Virginia will be delivered to the U.S. Navy this fall. Electric Boat is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics.
Bill Cullifer
Bill Cullifer, Founder

Dear Friends and Supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

We are witnessing a significant moment in naval history with the delivery of the USS New Jersey, the first Virginia-class attack submarine built to include women among its crew members. This milestone, achieved by Newport News Shipbuilding in collaboration with General Dynamics Electric Boat, marks a new chapter in the evolution of naval operations and inclusivity.

Breaking New Ground

The USS New Jersey represents not just technological advancement but also a progressive approach to crew composition. Initiated in March 2016, its construction has culminated in a submarine that not only meets today’s rigorous defense needs but also embraces the future with its inclusive design. This approach aligns with the Navy’s 2011 decision to integrate women into the submarine community, enhancing diversity and operational effectiveness aboard one of the most advanced platforms in the naval arsenal.

Navigating Challenges

The journey to this point was not without its challenges. The USS New Jersey was delivered approximately two years behind schedule, a testament to the complexities inherent in cutting-edge shipbuilding and the high standards maintained throughout its construction. The delays in blocks four and five of the Virginia-class submarines highlight the intricate dance between innovation and the practical realities of engineering and logistics.

Operational Excellence and Future Commitments

The upcoming commissioning of the USS New Jersey in September is eagerly anticipated. It will serve as a powerful symbol of our commitment to evolving and improving our naval capabilities. Jason Ward, Vice President of Virginia-class submarine construction at Newport News Shipbuilding, emphasized the dual focus on delivering critical capabilities to the fleet while upholding the highest standards of safety and quality.

Why This Matters

This development is pivotal for several reasons. It not only showcases the technological prowess and innovative spirit of our naval shipbuilding industry but also reflects a broader commitment to equality and inclusion within the military. The integration of women into the submarine force is a step forward in leveraging the full potential of our talented service members, irrespective of gender.

Key Takeaways

  • The USS New Jersey is the 11th Virginia-class submarine delivered by Newport News Shipbuilding, highlighting ongoing excellence in naval engineering.
  • Its design to accommodate coed crews is a response to changing policies and an evolving understanding of diversity’s role in operational success.
  • The challenges and delays experienced underscore the complex nature of modern submarine construction and the importance of continuous improvement in our industrial processes.

Let’s celebrate this achievement as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and vision that continue to drive our naval forces forward. Your support fuels our commitment to ensuring that the Navy remains a powerful, inclusive, and innovative force.

Thank you for standing with us as we support and advocate for a stronger and more capable Navy.

Bill

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US Sends Powerful Message of Deterrence to Iran and Its Allies with Nuclear Submarine in Middle East

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 East says 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.

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Legacy Reborn: The New USS Arizona and Its Historic Significance

USS Arizona is Navy Cmdr. Tom Digan,

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.

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Guarding the Deep: The New $5 Billion Submarine and America’s Underwater Advantage”

GROTON, Conn. (July 30, 2004) ñ PCU Virginia (SSN-774), the nationís newest and most advanced nuclear-powered attack submarine and the lead ship of its class, returns to the General Dynamics Electric Boat shipyard in Groton, Conn., July 30, following the successful completion of its first voyage in open seas ñ called “alpha” sea trials. Virginia is the Navyís only major combatant ready to join the fleet that was designed with the post-Cold War security environment in mind and embodies the warfighting and operational capabilities required to dominate the littorals while maintaining undersea dominance in the open ocean. ìNuclear submarines provide a unique contribution to our nationís security and will be increasingly important in the decades ahead,î said Electric Boat President John Casey. ìThe Virginia and the rest of the ships of its class are designed specifically to incorporate emergent technologies that will provide new capabilities to meet new threats.î Virginia will be delivered to the U.S. Navy this fall. Electric Boat is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics. (Photo courtesy of General Dynamics Electric Boat Public Affairs)

Introduction

Our world is becoming increasingly interconnected, not just in the digital sphere, but beneath the waves as well. The United States Navy, at the forefront of this underwater revolution, is investing in a $5.1 billion high-tech submarine that will usher in a new era of underwater warfare. This development reflects the escalating geopolitical tensions as the U.S., China, and Russia vie for dominance over seabed control. As the Americans for a Stronger Navy, our mission is to support these innovative efforts and ensure that our nation maintains its maritime strength, fostering a secure future for all Americans.

Summary

The Navy’s new $5.1 billion high-tech submarine project represents a significant advancement in underwater warfare and a critical step towards securing our nation’s underwater assets. This submarine will function as a protector of the vast network of undersea cables and pipelines crucial to our global economy and national security. The projected submarine’s details remain classified, but the initiative indicates a growing awareness and response to the vulnerability of our undersea infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

The Critical Importance of Undersea Infrastructure: As retired Navy Admiral James Stavridis told USA TODAY, “It is not satellites in the sky, but pipes on the ocean floor that form the backbone of the world’s economy.” This emphasizes the growing importance of undersea infrastructure and the necessity of its protection.

Warfare Goes Underwater: The focus on seabed control is not a mere military trend, but a necessity in our interconnected world. The majority of the world’s internet access, telecommunications, and oil pipelines are dependent on a vast network of undersea cables, making them prime targets for hostile forces.

The $5 Billion Submarine: The new high-tech submarine, currently under construction, is set to be the most expensive spy submarine in the Navy’s arsenal. It will significantly bolster the U.S.’s seabed warfare capabilities, providing a crucial line of defense for our undersea infrastructure.

Congressional Approval: While the submarine project is still pending Congressional approval, it is expected to face minimal opposition, reflecting the understanding of its necessity for our national security.

Conclusion

The underwater domain is the next frontier of warfare and economic competition. With our new high-tech submarine, the United States is making a robust statement: we will defend our undersea assets and maintain a firm grip on the seabed control. The Americans for a Stronger Navy stand proudly with this initiative, encouraging all Americans to lend their support and help our nation secure our future beneath the waves.

The undersea landscape is no longer an area of our planet that we can afford to overlook. As average Americans, your understanding and support of these endeavors are crucial. We invite you to join us, subscribe to our cause, and help the United States maintain a stronger navy for a safer future.

This blog post was informed by detailed reports from Palm Beach Post, USA TODAY, and Interesting Engineering. We extend our gratitude to these publications for their valuable insights and in-depth coverage on the U.S. Navy’s initiatives.