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.
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.
A combat-loaded F/A-18C taxis to the catapult aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.
In a significant escalation of military action, the U.S. Navy, in coordination with the U.K., has conducted a series of targeted strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen. This action, reported by Heather Mongilio of USNI News, comes as a direct response to the Houthis’ continued aggression against commercial shipping in the Middle East.
Strikes Across Air, Surface, and Subsurface:
The offensive involved a diverse array of military assets:
Air Force strike fighters from a base in the Middle East and Super Hornets from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) participated.
Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles were launched from naval ships in the Red Sea and potentially from the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN-728).
The strike occurred around 2:30 a.m. local time, closely following a Houthi missile attack in the Gulf of Aden.
U.K.’s Involvement:
U.K. Secretary of State for Defence Grant Shapps confirmed on social media that four Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4s conducted precision strikes on two key Houthi military targets in Bani and Abbs, Yemen. These sites were instrumental in the Houthis’ drone and missile operations.
U.S. Strike Details:
The U.S. targeted 60 locations, aiming at munition depots, command nodes, and systems critical to the Houthis’ drone and missile capabilities. This was part of a concerted effort to degrade their ability to threaten maritime security.
International Support:
The operation was supported by Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, highlighting a unified stance against threats to international navigation.
No Immediate Houthi Response:
As of the evening of January 12, there has been no reported retaliation from the Houthis. The strikes are separate from Operation Prosperity Guardian, which focuses on defending commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
U.S. Defense Secretary’s Statement:
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized that these actions are meant to disrupt the Houthis’ ability to jeopardize global trade and mariner safety. He stated, “Today’s coalition action sends a clear message to the Houthis that they will bear further costs if they do not end their illegal attacks.”
Context of the Attacks:
The Houthis have been launching attacks since October 19, 2023, with the U.S. and allies sending a clear warning to cease such actions. Despite these warnings, the Houthis have continued their attacks, including on U.S. and coalition military vessels.
U.K. Prime Minister’s Statement:
U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the Houthi actions as destabilizing and dangerous, reiterating the U.K.’s commitment to freedom of navigation and the free flow of trade.
Conclusion:
This coordinated response by the U.S. and U.K. signifies a strong stance against threats to international shipping and stability in the region. The situation remains dynamic, and further developments will be closely monitored and reported.
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.
Welcome to ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’.
In this insightful episode, we have the honor of featuring Dr. Bruce Jones, a distinguished expert from the Talbot Center on Security, Strategy, and Technology, and the Center on East Asia Policy. Dr. Jones, known for his acclaimed work ‘To Rule the Waves’, brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion on the critical issues shaping maritime power in our rapidly evolving global landscape.
Join us as we continue ‘Charting the Course’ for American Naval Power, exploring how maritime trade and security are pivotal in shaping the world order.”
In our dynamic global environment, we explore pressing questions:
Are we entering a new era of maritime power struggles due to climate change and intensified sea-based globalization?
What constitutes ‘ruling the waves’ in terms of maritime shipping dominance? How are factors like ship ownership, port control, and trade flow interconnected?
Dr. Jones discusses the vulnerability of container-based supply chains. Can he provide a specific incident of piracy or disruption that caused substantial economic impact?
What emerging threats, such as cyberattacks, climate disruptions, and political instability, are facing container shipping, and how can the US Navy and other stakeholders respond?
How will technological advancements like automation and AI reshape the future of container shipping, and what are the implications for efficiency, security, and workforce dynamics?
What is the current state of global trade, naval power, and the impact of climate change on oceans? What challenges and implications do these trends pose for the future world order?
Finally, how does the history of maritime trade and power mirror the patterns of post–Cold War globalization, with historical examples to support this relation?
The Philippine and US Navy have initiated high-stakes joint maritime drills in the South China Sea, as regional tensions with China continue to escalate. This marks a significant step in defense cooperation between the two nations.
Joint Maritime Exercise Details
The drills, starting on January 3, 2024, are the second such exercise in less than two months, highlighting the increasing frequency and intensity of military cooperation in the face of Chinese assertiveness in the region. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been actively strengthening defense ties with the US, as well as other allies like Japan and Australia, in response to China’s expansive claims over the South China Sea.
NHK World-Japan has confirmed that the Philippines and the United States began a two-day joint patrol in the South China Sea, underscoring the ongoing dispute in the region.
The Japan Times has reported that China conducted navy and air force patrols in the South China Sea, coinciding with the maritime drills by the U.S. and the Philippines in the same
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has expressed concerns over these developments, indicating “serious difficulties” in Beijing-Manila relations. The exercises included a variety of naval maneuvers and operations, involving multiple vessels and aircraft from both nations, aimed at enhancing interoperability and sending a strong message about the commitment to a rules-based international order and a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Takeaways
Increased Frequency of Drills: The recent exercises underscore a growing pattern of joint military operations in the region.
Strengthening Alliances: The Philippines is actively enhancing defense relations with the US and other regional powers.
China’s Reaction: China’s response to these drills indicates a growing concern and potential diplomatic strain with the Philippines.
Focus on a Rules-based Order: The drills are a clear message to uphold international maritime laws and freedom of navigation in the contested waters.
The joint maritime exercises between the Philippines and the US represent a significant development in regional defense dynamics. They not only demonstrate the robustness of the Philippine-US alliance but also signify a broader commitment to maintaining stability and a rules-based order in the South China Sea amidst rising tensions.
We’ve laid the groundwork, discussing the vital role and impact of the U.S. Navy in a global context. Now, we’re excited to dive deeper into specific topics that define the future of American naval power.
We are honored to present Dr. Steven Wills, a distinguished navalist, historian, and former U.S. Naval officer, in our first in-depth episode titled ‘Developing and Implementing Effective U.S. Navy Strategies.‘
With over 30 years of experience in surface warfare, naval strategy, and national security, Dr. Wills brings unparalleled insights into the complexities and necessities of a forward-thinking Naval strategy.
Dr. Wills, an esteemed author of significant works like ‘Strategy Shelved’ and ‘Where are the Carriers?’, co-authored with former Navy Secretary John Lehman, enriches our discussion with his perspectives, shaped by his contributions to notable publications like the U.S. Naval War College Review and U.S. Naval Institute News.
Join us as we build on our past discussions, charting the evolving course of American naval power, and delve into its indispensable role in the ever-changing tapestry of global security.
Speakersand Sessions
Episode 1: Dr. Steven Wills, Navalist for the Center for Maritime Strategy at the Navy League of the United States. – The Anatomy of Naval Strate – December 28, 2023
Dive deep into the world of naval strategy with Dr Steven Wills, who brings a keen eye to the intricacies of strategy development, its challenges, and the integration of diverse naval capabilities. This session promises a thorough exploration of what constitutes U.S. Navy strategy, its objectives, and how it shapes the nation’s maritime future.
Episode 2:Dr. Bruce Jones, Senior Fellow – Foreign Policy, Center for East Asia Policy Studies, Strobe Talbott Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology, Brookings Institution. – Maritime Power Through History and Future – January 4, 2024
Join Dr. Bruce Jones for a historical and global perspective on maritime power. This session connects past and present maritime dynamics, exploring the influence of trade, climate change, and geopolitical shifts. Gain insights into how historical narratives of maritime prowess inform the current dynamics of power and influence in the global maritime domain.
Episode 3: Dr. Sam Tangredi, Leidos Chair of Future Warfare Studies and professor of national, naval, and maritime strategy at the U.S. Naval War College.January 11, 2024.
Embark on a technological journey with Dr. Sam Tangredi, an authority on the integration of AI in naval warfare. This session addresses how AI, big data, and human-machine interfaces are revolutionizing naval operations. Learn about the ethical, legal, and strategic dimensions of AI in the Navy and its profound impact on future naval force structure and capabilities.
Episode 4: Dr. Scott Savitz, Senior Engineer at the RAND Corporation – Innovation at Sea: Non-Lethal Weapons and Uncrewed Platforms – .January 18, 2024.
Explore the cutting-edge of naval innovation with Dr. Scott Savitz, focusing on non-lethal weapons and uncrewed platforms. Understand how these technologies are reshaping naval strategy and operations, their potential risks, and their role in maintaining strategic advantage over global rivals. This session promises insights into the future of naval warfare and national security.
Episode 5: Bryan Clark, senior fellow and director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at Hudson Institute – The Technological Horizon of Naval Warfare – February 1st, 2024.
Delve into the future with as we examine the broad implications of emerging technologies like AI, big data, machine learning, and more in naval warfare. This session covers the integration challenges these technologies pose, their strategic impact, and their role in enhancing interoperability and effectiveness with global allies.⁰
Episode 6: Seth Cropsey, President Yorktown Institute. – Navigating Today’s Naval Challenges – February 8, 2024.
Join us as we explore the complexities of modern naval power with Seth Cropsey, a seasoned expert with extensive experience in the U.S. Naval and Department of Defense realms. This session offers an in-depth look at the current challenges and opportunities facing the Navy, particularly in the context of global rivalries. Discover the strategic insights that set the stage for a comprehensive understanding of contemporary naval dynamics.
Episode 7: Jon Rennie, co-founder, president, and CEO of Peak Demand Inc., – Leadership and Culture in Modern Naval Power –February 15th, 2024.
Conclude our series with Jon Rennie, focusing on the crucial elements of leadership, culture, and the balance between tradition and modernization within the Navy. This session highlights the importance of leadership in navigating the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in naval power, offering a holistic view of the organizational dynamics at play.
To the members, dedicated friends, and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy,
It is with a sense of urgency and commitment to our national security that we delve into an issue of paramount importance – the revitalization of the U.S. Navy’s shipyards. This topic, often overlooked in public discourse, is a cornerstone of our naval strength and a critical factor in maintaining our status as a global maritime power.
The Navy’s four public shipyards — Norfolk, Portsmouth, Puget Sound, and Pearl Harbor — are essential for maintaining submarines and aircraft carriers, ensuring fleet readiness. Originally built for sail- and conventionally-powered ships, these 19th and 20th-century shipyards now struggle to efficiently service modern nuclear-powered vessels. Confronted with outdated facilities and technology, they face increasing maintenance costs, scheduling delays, and reliability concerns.
Recognizing the need for modernization, the Navy initiated the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) in May 2018. Managed by Naval Sea Systems Command with support from Naval Facilities Engineering Command and Commander, Navy Installations Command, SIOP aims to upgrade dry docks, optimize industrial processes, and modernize equipment to meet contemporary standards. This program is a critical step in transforming these historic shipyards into state-of-the-art facilities, aligning them with current naval operational needs.
Why This Matters
The significance of a robust and modern naval force cannot be understated in an era defined by great-power competition and rapidly evolving global threats. Our shipyards are the backbone of this force, serving as the lifeblood that keeps our fleet operational, advanced, and ready for any challenge. However, as recent assessments reveal, the current state of these facilities is far from meeting the demands of contemporary naval warfare and strategy.
Why America Should Care
Every American should be concerned about the state of our Navy’s shipyards. These facilities are not just about maintaining ships; they are about safeguarding our national security, ensuring global maritime dominance, and protecting our economic interests. A powerful Navy guarantees open sea lanes for commerce, deters potential adversaries, and provides a rapid response capability in times of crisis. The efficacy of our Navy is directly linked to the health of our shipyards.
Key Takeaway Problems
Two critical analyses – one from Forbes and another from Maiya Clark, The Heritage Foundation – highlight the pressing issues facing our shipyards:
Aging Fleet and Infrastructure: Our Los Angeles Class submarines and shipyard facilities have aged, hindering operational efficiency.
Resource Misallocation: There’s a notable misallocation of resources, with billions being spent on maintaining older vessels instead of investing in newer classes or infrastructure.
Maintenance Delays: Prolonged maintenance periods are causing significant operational gaps in fleet readiness.
Inefficient Modernization Efforts: Efforts like the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan (SIOP) face challenges in funding and execution, threatening their effectiveness.
Human Capital Needs: A modern shipyard also requires a talented workforce, including engineers and trade personnel, to effectively utilize and maintain the upgraded infrastructure.
How Urgent Is This?
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. With each passing day of delayed maintenance and underfunded modernization, our naval capabilities diminish. The world is not standing still; as potential adversaries advance their naval capabilities, any lag on our part creates vulnerabilities. Addressing these issues is not just a matter of military preparedness; it is a necessity for national survival.
Solutions
The path forward requires a multifaceted approach:
Strategic Investment in Modernization: Fully funding and efficiently executing the SIOP is crucial for modernizing our shipyards.
Prioritizing Fleet Readiness: The Navy must reallocate resources towards vessels and infrastructure that significantly enhance our naval capabilities.
Public-Private Partnerships: Leveraging private shipyards for maintenance work can alleviate pressure on public yards and introduce innovative practices
Boosting Workforce Expertise: Critical for Naval Advancement to complement infrastructure development, prioritizing workforce expertise is vital. The Navy should focus on attracting and nurturing skilled engineers and tradespeople through enhanced training programs and partnerships. This strategic investment in human capital is essential to fully leverage upgraded vessels and facilities, thereby bolstering overall naval capabilities.
Policy Support and Advocacy: It’s vital for organizations like Americans for a Stronger Navy to advocate for policies that support these changes and raise public awareness about the importance of a modern and capable Navy.
Conclusion
As members, friends, and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we play a crucial role in shaping the discourse and action around this critical issue.
Our collective voice can drive the change necessary to ensure that our Navy remains the most formidable maritime force in the world.
We must not only understand the challenges but also actively advocate for practical solutions.
The future of our naval superiority and, by extension, our national security, depends on our commitment to revitalizing America’s shipyards. Together, let’s champion a stronger, more resilient Navy for a safer, more secure America.
The U.S. Navy is one step closer to realizing its vision of a hybrid fleet that combines manned and unmanned ships. In a recent test, the Navy demonstrated that a diesel generator for Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) operations can run for 720 hours without human intervention or maintenance.
This is a critical requirement for the Large Unmanned Surface Vessel (LUSV) program, which aims to develop and acquire low-cost, high-endurance, modular USVs that can carry various payloads, such as missiles, sensors, or electronic warfare systems.
What Was the Test About?
The test was mandated by Congress in the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, which directed the Navy to achieve the 720-hour milestone before the LUSV could proceed into formal development.
The test included 100 hours of pre-testing and 720 hours of demonstration phase, during which no human intervention and no preventative or corrective maintenance on the equipment was allowed.
The test was conducted by Bollinger and Carter Machinery on behalf of Caterpillar in Chesapeake, Virginia. The Navy’s Program Executive Office for Unmanned and Small Combatants (PEO USC) and the Unmanned Maritime Systems Program Office (PMS 406) oversaw the successful test completion. The test validated that the 1550 kw Caterpillar 3512C model engine demonstrated sufficient mechanical reliability to support the requirements of an unmanned ship to operate for 30 days.
Why Does It Matter?
The test is a key milestone for the Navy’s unmanned surface vessel programs and allows the Navy to move forward with developing and acquiring the LUSV, which is envisioned to be greater than 200 ft. in length with a full load displacement of approximately 1,500 tons.
The LUSV will deliver adjunct missile magazine capacity to the Fleet as part of the Navy’s Distributed Maritime Operations concept, which seeks to leverage a more distributed and networked force to counter potential adversaries.
The LUSV is intended to be a low-cost, high-endurance, modular USV that can employ a variety of payloads, depending on the mission. The LUSV could provide additional firepower, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or mine countermeasures capabilities to the Fleet, without putting human lives at risk or requiring extensive logistics support.
What Are the Implications for the Navy?
The successful test of the diesel generator for USV operations is a significant step towards achieving the Navy’s goal of a hybrid fleet that integrates manned and unmanned ships.
The LUSV program is one of the Navy’s large UV programs that pose a number of oversight issues for Congress, including issues relating to the analytical basis for the more distributed fleet architecture; the Navy’s accelerated acquisition strategies for these programs; technical, schedule, and cost risk in the programs; the proposed annual procurement rates for the programs; the industrial base implications of the programs; potential implications for miscalculation or escalation at sea; the personnel implications of the programs; and whether the Navy has accurately priced the work it is proposing to do on the programs .
The Navy is also pursuing other unmanned surface vessel programs, such as the Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV) and the Ghost Fleet Overlord program, which aim to develop and test smaller, more agile, and more autonomous USVs that can perform various missions, such as scouting, countermine, anti-submarine, or electronic warfare
These programs are expected to complement the LUSV program and enhance the Navy’s capabilities and flexibility in the future.
The Navy’s unmanned surface vessel programs are part of a broader effort to leverage new technologies and concepts to address the challenges and opportunities posed by the changing strategic environment.
Unmanned vessels, according to their advocates, help solve both the problems of budget constraints and anti-access and area-denial threats.
They are ostensibly cheaper than manned ships, so the Navy can build a larger fleet under constrained budgets. And, since unmanned vessels do not risk human life, they can be deployed within those areas where A2/AD capabilities pose a threat .
However, unmanned vessels also come with a host of unknown risks and challenges, such as technical reliability, cyber vulnerability, legal liability, ethical dilemmas, command and control issues, and human-machine interaction.
These issues will require careful consideration and experimentation before unmanned vessels can be fully integrated into the Navy’s operations and doctrine.
Moreover, unmanned vessels are not a silver bullet that can solve all the Navy’s problems.
They still require manned support and protection, and they may not be able to perform all the functions and roles that manned ships can, such as diplomacy, deterrence, or humanitarian assistance. Unmanned vessels are not a replacement for manned ships, but rather a supplement and an enabler for them.
The Navy’s unmanned surface vessel programs are an ambitious and innovative attempt to transform the Navy’s fleet and capabilities in the face of emerging threats and opportunities. The successful test of the diesel generator for USV operations is a major achievement that paves the way for the development and acquisition of the LUSV, a key component of the Navy’s hybrid fleet vision.
However, the Navy still faces many challenges and uncertainties in implementing and integrating unmanned vessels into its operations and doctrine.
The Navy will need to continue to test, evaluate, and refine its unmanned surface vessel programs, as well as to address the various oversight issues and concerns raised by Congress and other stakeholders.
Unmanned vessels are the future of the Navy, but they are not the only future. The Navy will need to balance its investments and efforts between manned and unmanned ships, as well as between sea control and sea denial, to achieve a fleet that is capable, credible, and adaptable.
The U.S. Navy destroyer Carney shot down multiple missiles and drones fired by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen on U.S. Navy
The US Navy has a vital role in ensuring the security and stability of the Middle East and the world. However, recent events have shown that the Navy is facing new and complex threats in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, two strategic waterways that connect Europe, Asia and Africa.
Why the Red Sea matters
The Red Sea is a narrow and shallow body of water that separates Africa from the Arabian Peninsula. It is a crucial route for global trade, as it links the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean through the Suez Canal. According to the US Energy Information Administration, about 9% of the world’s seaborne oil trade passes through the Red Sea.
The Red Sea is also a hotspot for regional conflicts and tensions. On one side, there is Yemen, where a civil war has been raging since 2014 between the internationally recognized government and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The Houthis have repeatedly attacked Saudi Arabia, a US ally and the leader of a coalition that supports the Yemeni government, with missiles, drones and naval mines. The Houthis have also targeted commercial ships and oil tankers in the Red Sea, posing a threat to maritime security and the global energy supply
On the other side, there is Egypt, which controls the Suez Canal and has a long-standing rivalry with Ethiopia over the Nile River. Ethiopia is building a massive hydroelectric dam on the Nile, which Egypt fears will reduce its share of the water and endanger its food security. The dispute has escalated into a diplomatic crisis, with both countries accusing each other of violating international law and threatening military action. The US has tried to mediate the conflict, but so far without success.
Why the Suez Canal matters
The Suez Canal is a man-made waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea. It was built by the French in the 19th century and nationalized by Egypt in 1956, sparking a war with Britain, France and Israel. The canal was closed twice in the 20th century, during the Suez Crisis of 1956 and the Six-Day War of 1967, disrupting global trade and triggering oil crises. The canal was reopened in 1975 and has since been expanded and modernized to accommodate larger ships and more traffic.
The Suez Canal is one of the most important chokepoints in the world, as it allows ships to avoid the long and costly detour around Africa. According to the Suez Canal Authority, about 50 ships pass through the canal every day, carrying about 12% of the world’s trade and 8% of the world’s oil. The canal is also a strategic asset for the US Navy, as it enables the rapid deployment of naval forces from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean and vice versa.
The Suez Canal, however, is not immune to accidents and disruptions. In March 2021, a giant container ship, the Ever Given, ran aground in the canal and blocked it for six days, causing a massive traffic jam and a global supply chain crisis. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of the canal to human error, technical failure and bad weather. It also raised questions about the adequacy of the canal’s infrastructure, management and security
Why America should care
The US has a vital interest in maintaining the security and stability of the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, as they are essential for the global economy, the energy market and the regional balance of power. The US also has a moral and legal obligation to protect its allies and partners in the region, such as Saudi Arabia, Israel and Egypt, from external and internal threats.
The US Navy, therefore, has a key role in safeguarding the freedom of navigation and the flow of commerce in these waterways. The Navy has deployed several ships and aircraft to the region, including the USS Carney, a guided-missile destroyer that has shot down several drones launched by the Houthis in the Red Sea.
In addition to the USS Carney, the US Navy has also announced a new international mission to counter the escalating Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea. The mission, dubbed Operation Sentinel, aims to enhance maritime security and deter aggression in the region. The US will work with its allies and partners, such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom, to provide escort and surveillance services to commercial vessels and ensure the freedom of navigation in the vital waterway. The Navy has also offered to help the Egyptian authorities to clear the Suez Canal after the Ever Given incident.
However, the Navy also faces new and complex challenges in the region, such as the increasing sophistication and proliferation of the Houthi weapons, the rising tensions and potential conflicts between Egypt and Ethiopia, and the growing influence and presence of other actors, such as Russia, China and Iran. The Navy also has to balance its resources and priorities with other regions, such as the Indo-Pacific and Europe, where it faces similar or greater threats.
The US Navy, therefore, needs to adapt and innovate to cope with the changing dynamics and demands in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. The Navy needs to enhance its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, to detect and deter any hostile or suspicious activities in the region. The Navy also needs to strengthen its cooperation and coordination with its allies and partners, to share information, resources and responsibilities. The Navy also needs to invest in its infrastructure, technology and personnel, to ensure its readiness and resilience.
The Red Sea and the Suez Canal are vital lifelines for the world and the US. The US Navy is the guardian of these lifelines, and it must be prepared and equipped to face any challenges and opportunities in the region.
This just in from Reuters:
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin announced on Tuesday plans to set up a multinational coalition to safeguard Red Sea shipping called Operation Prosperity Guardian. During a trip to the Middle East, he said the operations would be joined by Britain, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles and Spain.
This has been the response according to Reuters
France France’s Defence Ministry said it supported efforts to secure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and surrounding area and said it already operated in the region. But it said its ships would stay under French command and did not say if it would deploy more naval forces. Advertisement · Scroll to continue Report this ad France has a naval base in the United Arab Emirates and 1,500 troops in Djibouti. Its frigate Languedoc is now in the Red Sea.
Italy Italy’s Defence Ministry said it would send naval frigate Virginio Fasan to the Red Sea to protect its national interests in response to specific requests made by Italian shipowners. It said this was part of its existing operations and was not part of Operation Prosperity Guardian.
Spain
Spain’s Defence Ministry said it would only participate in NATO-led missions or EU-coordinated operations. “We will not participate unilaterally in the Red Sea operation,” it said.
Britain
Britain said destroyer HMS Diamond would join Operation Prosperity Guardian. Britain’s defence ministry said the coalition would operate as part of the U.S.-led CMF.
Others
The Netherlands said it would send two staff officers and Norway said it would send 10 naval officers to Bahrain, the headquarters of CMF.
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The U.S. launched Operation Prosperity Guardian, an expansion of its maritime defense force in the Red Sea amid mounting attacks from the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group. Several major companies like BP and Maersk have paused shipping in the Red Sea as danger from Houthi drone strikes escalates. An expanded military presence in the Red Sea comes as the U.S. eyes potential flare-ups of spreading regional conflict as the Israel-Hamas war continues.
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