The idea of large-scale war is difficult to face, especially for an American population unaccustomed to great power adversaries bringing the fight to us. But this is the reality that we see today. From Russia’s active military operations on NATO’s doorstep, to Iran’s burgeoning nuclear program and destabilizing proxy forces, to China’s stated goal of being prepared to invade Taiwan by 2027, America will face military conflict whether we seek it or not. The time for action is now!
This section will briefly outline a number of key priorities for legislators, policymakers, agency officials, and advocates. This is only a fraction of the recommendations listed in each section. For further detail on these priorities and recommendations, please consult the relevant sections of the Maritime Policy Statement which can be found by accessing the Table of Contents feature in the upper right-hand corner of your screen. It should also be noted this Statement is a starting point for collaborative efforts between Congress, relevant agencies, think tanks and subject matter experts, industry, and advocates. The Statement will be updated regularly, and key priorities will be reorganized as they are addressed by Congress and the sea services.
Appropriate at least $40 billion annually for the Navy Shipbuilding and Conversion budget to rapidly expand the fleet and account for the rising cost of labor and materials.
Ensure consistency in annual vessel procurement to provide stability across the shipbuilding industrial base and security for the shipbuilding workforce.
Increase and accelerate funding for the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan, to ensure the expanded submarine fleet can be properly maintained.
Prepare for a long-term conflict in the South China Sea by hardening military facilities, pre-positioning supplies, developing resilient logistical infrastructure, and developing nontraditional resupply options.
Continue to support Ukraine while investing in the production of depleted munitions to ensure that American forces have the firepower needed for a possible great power conflict.
Ensure full funding for the Ready Reserve Fleet to match combatant commander readiness and capacity requirements as specified by the updated MCRS in a yet to be released Unclassified Executive Summary.
Incorporate National Defense Features on other vessels. Navy funding of such features on both U.S.- and foreign-built onboard TSP and MSP vessels (e.g. TSP CONSOL systems) is needed to enhance their military utility in support of contingency operations.
Prioritize the development and deployment of lower-cost counter-drone technologies and weapon systems, reducing the use of multi-million-dollar missile interceptors.
Invest in military quality of life priorities such as affordable military housing, base and barracks modernization/renovation, increased access to childcare, and food security.
Increase the stipend per vessel under the Tanker Security Program to reflect inflationary pressures and increase the number of vessels in the program in accordance with the 2021 USTRANSCOM Tanker Requirement Study.
Support, defend, and maintain the Jones Act, and increase cargo preference thresholds to better support the U.S. flag fleet.
Provide full authorized funding of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and six state maritime academies to meet the operational, maintenance and capital improvements requirements, including expanding the Student Incentive Program.
Ensure adequate funding of the Title XI Federal Ship Financing Program. At least $30 million is needed now, followed by about $30 million in annual appropriations to keep up with the potential demand, including Jones Act ships in support of the offshore wind industry.
Deepen partnerships with allied nations to foster innovation, deterrence against adversaries, and adherence to the rules-based international order.
Allocate greater funding for Coast Guard operations and shoreside infrastructure, recognizing the Coast Guard’s mission has expanded across the globe and plays a critical role in countering adversary “gray zone” operations, IUU fishing, and transnational criminal organizations. Particular focus should be given to the Coast Guard icebreaker fleet which must be expanded as rapidly as possible.
Support sea service-related youth programs such as the Sea Cadets and the Young Marines. These programs will produce the Sailors, Marines, and Mariners that we need to defend the homeland in the years to come.
With the return of great power competition, it will be our sea services that stand guard on the maritime frontlines of the South China Sea, the Red Sea, the Baltic Sea, and the Arctic sea lanes. It is indisputable that America’s sea services, our forward deployed “away team” safeguarding a rules-based international maritime environment, will play a deciding role in the fate of our nation and of the global community. If America wants to prosper, to preserve its way of life, and to safeguard our people and interests, we as a nation must prioritize the strength, readiness, and resilience of our sea services. As Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III stated at the 2023 Naval Academy Commencement, “the lifeblood of the rules based international order is actually seawater.” Join us in safeguarding the American way of life by bolstering our sea services.
