The number of littoral combat ships and joint high-speed vessels is increasing, and the Navy needs a reliable support framework to meet their needs.
The U.S. Navy has a long history of operating in the global maritime domain. Our laudable traditions of anti-piracy operations, maritime-security cooperation, and training and exchange programs are unparalleled. We provide a model for developing navies to emulate. With a focus on the expanding economic growth and power of south Asian and African nations and the importance of their littorals to the majority of international trade and commerce, ensuring our engaged presence has never been more vital. Just as today’s officers will proudly pass along the Navy’s maritime traditions and hand off a leaner, more littoral Navy, it is equally important to ensure that Fleet operations not be hindered by a lack of foresight and action on our part.
