So what.
The carrier can far surpass that, as can the latest escorts.
Secondly, at that speed, the FUEL CONSUMPTION is much greater than the gas turbines.
Other than placing oilers throughout the theater, it ain't enough to keep up with the CVNs....
However, I am the first to agree that the 16" are the answer to maximum ordinance on target. The ability to place the shells where they needs to be 20 miles + is there, and just as reliable as the latest computer software
But the crew manning requirements are excessive. And unless we can "outsource" the crew for underpaid Canadians or Costa Ricans, it is too expensive a platform for the purpose to which it exists...
Mark Ude.
LT, USNR
Why would you want to run a BB with a CVN?
Fuel consumption is very high for everyone at 30+ knots. DDGs and CGs are always on the CVN or tanker for replenishment at those speeds.
However, my point wasn't that the BBs should be brought back, it was that 33 knots isn't slow.
I think the rail gun concept, with GPS rounds would be a smarter solution.
"However, I am the first to agree that the 16" are the answer to maximum ordinance on target. The ability to place the shells where they needs to be 20 miles + is there, and just as reliable as the latest computer software"
One thing that's important: Last I looked this is a team effort: no one will be doing the job "all by themselves"
When it comes to softening up a beachhead (which is still quite conceiveable) nothing beats a BB.
Perhaps the CVN's can out perform a BB, but their escorts (all conventional) will burn far more fuel per ton than a BB at anything over 20kt. That, plus their limited bunkerage will require them to UNREP more often. In any case, flank speed is rarely used. Cruising speed and range is still pretty respectable---what matters is having the asset where you need it, when you have it. You are going to have the AO's there (and now the T-AO's) regardless
(Also, BUSHIPS has looked at (in some detail) replacing the steam plant with Gas Turbines.)
Sabot rounds can reach further, plus the they pack a pretty good punch. I've still seen both 16/54 HE and AP rounds go much further than 20 miles. Insofar as we are dealing with beach heads (where Marines like to play) the BB is still a very viable weapon. If you add that in, plus the modifactions that Darth pointed out, you have what comes out to be a multi-purpose BB (add in the OHIO-class SSGN's that are due beginning in 2006 and you hav nice package)
You worry about manning. The navy can easily reduce ship's company to about 1,100-1,400 (depending on BB configuration)through automation and upgrades. While that is still a goodly amount of manpower, the platform is worth it.
It's easy for those who are sitting at sea to say what's good and what's not----in the end it's the Marines and Army that want an area softened up, a good idea considering they will be going into it.
That makes it worth it as well.