Title: US Navy Affirms Need for 31 Large Amphibious Warships in Future, Outlines Plan for 381 Ships in Classified Report
Introduction
The US Navy has recently sent a classified report to Congress, reaffirming its need for at least 31 large amphibious warships in the future. The report, known as the Battle Force Ship Requirements and Assessment report, also outlines the Navy’s plans to have a total fleet of 381 ships and submarines. This announcement comes after the Navy’s earlier decision to institute a “strategic pause” on ordering new amphibious ships, which resulted in a public disagreement with the US Marine Corps and pushback from lawmakers. However, concerns remain about the US shipbuilding capability and the feasibility of achieving these goals.
Overview of the Report
The Navy’s classified report states that a future battle force target of 381 ships is necessary to meet future campaign and warfare demands. The report supports the 2022 National Defense Strategy and will inform future budget submissions and force structure requirements. The Navy uses the term “battle force” to collectively refer to its fleets of large surface warfare ships, submarines, and large auxiliaries.
Current Requirements and Planned Fleet Size
According to the report, the Navy expects its fiscal year 2024 battle force size to be 293 vessels, including 29 amphibious warfare ships. This portion of the force will include America and Wasp class amphibious assault ships, Saint Anthony class Landing Platform Dock Ships (LPDs), and Whidbey Island and Harpers Ferry class Dock Landing Ships (LSDs).
The new battle force requirement includes 31 amphibious warfare ships as a “future target.” This is significant considering the previous plans to reduce amphibious ship acquisition. In February, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced a “strategic pause” in the purchase of new large amphibious warfare ships.
Friction Between Navy and Marine Corps
The Navy’s decision to reduce amphibious ship acquisition caused friction between the Navy and the US Marine Corps. The Marine Corps heavily relies on Navy amphibious ships to carry out its primary missions. Marine General David Berger, the Chief of Staff of the Marine Corps at the time, expressed opposition to the Navy’s proposed course of action, stating that there were no plans to meet the minimum requirement of 31 amphibious warfare ships.
The Navy’s confirmation of the need for 31 amphibious warfare ships in the new report is expected to alleviate some of the tension between the two branches of the military. Navy Vice Adm. Scott Conn, the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Combat Requirements and Capabilities, emphasized the shared need for such ships despite the disagreements.
Challenges and Questions
Despite the reaffirmed need for amphibious warfare ships, there are major questions surrounding the Navy’s plan to achieve a battle force of 381 ships. The Navy’s long-range shipbuilding plan does not show a clear path to reaching these goals, especially in terms of the amphibious warfare component. Additionally, the US shipbuilding capacity remains a limitation, especially when compared to the Chinese shipbuilding industry, which has exponentially larger capabilities.
Shipbuilding is a time-consuming process that requires specialized supply chains and skilled labor. An extended strategic pause could lead to shutdowns of shipbuilding lines and downsizing of the workforce, making it difficult to meet future requirements.
Moreover, the Navy will face challenges in funding the acquisition, maintenance, and operation of the desired fleet size. Increased operating costs and maintenance demands have been a strain on the Navy’s resources, and it remains to be seen how these challenges will be addressed to achieve the desired fleet composition.
Conclusion
The US Navy’s classified report sent to Congress reiterates the need for at least 31 amphibious warfare ships and a total battle force of 381 ships and submarines. The report highlights the Navy’s commitment to meeting future campaign and warfare demands. However, challenges lie ahead, including concerns over the US shipbuilding capacity, the feasibility of reaching the desired fleet size, and the financial implications of maintaining and operating a larger fleet. The Navy will need to address these challenges to ensure a capable and effective force for the future.
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