We need 450 ship navy. Other nations are expanding their fleets. We need to build railgun cruisers, Light, fast Drone carriers, and a Tall Ship—The USS United States—for the cadets at Anapolis. A presidental yacht as well to do deals!
I agree that innovative new approaches are the way to go. I also agree that other nations are expanding their Navy. I view this two ways. One, they see us as withdrawing from the world stage, so they can’t count on us anymore. And two, these other nations are potential allies of our enemies.
We can’t look at one nation and say, “Oh, they’re not really a threat.” On their own I agree. In a five to seven nation axis against us, it’s a big deal.”
If we want a shot at remaining a global player, we need to be able to project at any given time and enforce our right of free passage.
IMO, that’s exactly what the Spratley mess is all about. China is looking to expand a chokehold on the Western Pacific. Our allies are in jeopardy once that base is complete.