Do we need more than 12 Ford CSGs, though? The traditional ship ratio of 3:1 works with adequate yard space. (So yes to more shipyards. Lorain Ohio wants one!) We should invest in light/escort carrier groups. Something that carries 2 F-35 squadrons, at least 1 helicopter and 1 UAV squadrons. 1 Burke, 2 Constellations, and a couple resupply ships.
And does presence have to be CSGs? The proposed FRC-based missile boats would be great for presence missions. Have a squadron at each Pacific island group, maybe have a Coast Guardsman on board to arrest poachers and smugglers. Have a few in the Med and Caribbean Islands, maybe port-hopping the entire Western Hemisphere? Be a way to expand ship numbers and area coverage relatively quickly and affordably.
“The plain truth is that we are relatively safe on our island continent with friendly neighbors, while our critical economic and security interests are far flung and distant.”
The press has no idea that it is unusual to have a CSG in 6th Fleet AOR. Ford is only there as Bush’s relief for Ukraine duty. Remember when Libya imploded they were asking where the carrier was. Also no clue about what it took to have Ike ready to deploy. Unusual that there are four CSG’s active right now (and only one with F-35’s). FOX talked about Harriers on Bataan; it’s got F-35B’s I believe.
Do we need more than 12 Ford CSGs, though? The traditional ship ratio of 3:1 works with adequate yard space. (So yes to more shipyards. Lorain Ohio wants one!) We should invest in light/escort carrier groups. Something that carries 2 F-35 squadrons, at least 1 helicopter and 1 UAV squadrons. 1 Burke, 2 Constellations, and a couple resupply ships.
And does presence have to be CSGs? The proposed FRC-based missile boats would be great for presence missions. Have a squadron at each Pacific island group, maybe have a Coast Guardsman on board to arrest poachers and smugglers. Have a few in the Med and Caribbean Islands, maybe port-hopping the entire Western Hemisphere? Be a way to expand ship numbers and area coverage relatively quickly and affordably.
Bryan, you rock.
“The plain truth is that we are relatively safe on our island continent with friendly neighbors, while our critical economic and security interests are far flung and distant.”
The press has no idea that it is unusual to have a CSG in 6th Fleet AOR. Ford is only there as Bush’s relief for Ukraine duty. Remember when Libya imploded they were asking where the carrier was. Also no clue about what it took to have Ike ready to deploy. Unusual that there are four CSG’s active right now (and only one with F-35’s). FOX talked about Harriers on Bataan; it’s got F-35B’s I believe.
More, Faster, Please. Thanks for your continued efforts to speak to power.