The Indo-Pacific and the Middle East are regions of growing concern, placing increasing demands on the U.S. Navy’s fleet. To meet these challenges, the Navy has taken a dual approach: commissioning advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older but highly capable destroyers. Together, these efforts ensure the Navy can continue to project power, deter aggression, and respond effectively to crises.
The Backbone of the Fleet: Why USS John Basilone Matters More Than Ever
The Indo-Pacific and the Middle East are regions of growing concern, placing increasing demands on the U.S. Navy’s fleet. To meet these challenges, the Navy has taken a dual approach: commissioning advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older but highly capable destroyers. Together, these efforts ensure the Navy can continue to project power, deter aggression, and respond effectively to crises.
Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, like the newly commissioned USS John Basilone, are the backbone of the Navy’s surface fleet. These multi-mission ships excel in air, surface, and subsurface operations, providing unparalleled flexibility in addressing a wide range of threats. However, not all destroyers are created equal. The USS John Basilone stands out as one of the last Flight IIA configurations, featuring advancements that position it as a cutting-edge addition to the fleet.
What Sets USS John Basilone Apart
Commissioned on November 9, 2024, the USS John Basilone is one of the last destroyers built before the Navy transitions to the next-generation Flight III Arleigh Burke-class ships. While it doesn’t include the new AN/SPY-6 radar of the Flight III class, it boasts the following capabilities:
- Enhanced Aegis Combat System: The USS John Basilone is equipped with the AN/SPY-1D(v) radar, part of the Navy’s most advanced integrated combat system, capable of addressing air, surface, and subsurface threats with precision.
- Formidable Armament: With a 96-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch System, it can launch a wide range of missiles, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, Standard Missiles, and RUM-139A anti-submarine missiles. It also includes torpedoes, close-in weapon systems, and options for Harpoon or Naval Strike Missiles.
- Aviation Capabilities: The ship carries two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, further enhancing its anti-submarine and reconnaissance operations.
- Multi-Mission Versatility: As a Flight IIA destroyer, it’s designed for Anti-Air Warfare (AAW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), making it a versatile asset for modern conflict.
These features ensure the USS John Basilone can operate independently or as part of a larger flotilla, addressing today’s complex challenges with confidence.
Meeting the Challenges Head-On
While the USS John Basilone represents the future, retaining older destroyers also remains vital to the Navy’s strategy. Maintaining these ships requires significant investment in upgrades and maintenance to keep them mission-ready. However, these costs pale in comparison to the risks of reducing the fleet size at a time when adversaries like China and Russia are rapidly expanding their naval capabilities.
This dual approach—introducing advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older vessels—ensures the Navy has the capacity and versatility needed to respond to crises across the globe.
A Call to Support the Navy
As Americans, we must recognize the importance of supporting a strong Navy. Investments in shipbuilding, maintenance, and modernization are not just about national security—they’re about protecting the sailors who serve and ensuring the Navy can meet today’s challenges and those that lie ahead. Let us honor the legacy of heroes like John Basilone by advocating for the resources our Navy needs.
A Shout-Out to a True Supporter
A big shout-out to Susan Ann Cunha, a dedicated supporter of the U.S. Navy and a stronger military! Susan recently shared an insightful quote that resonates deeply with our mission: “The U.S. Navy needs more ships and more shipyards.”
Her unwavering commitment to ensuring the Navy has the tools and resources it needs to protect our nation is truly inspiring. Supporters like Susan remind us why it’s so important to rally behind our sailors and the infrastructure that sustains them. Thank you, Susan Ann Cunha, for your passion and steadfast support—you embody the spirit of what makes America strong!