Is the U.S. Navy’s Surface Fleet Now Obsolete?
© The US Navy's troubled Zumwalt-class destroyers are being revitalized with the integration of Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) hypersonic missiles, transforming them into powerful long-range strike platforms. The original class of 32 ships was cut to just three after its Advanced Gun System failed due to exorbitant costs. Now, these stealthy, $8 billion warships are having their defunct guns replaced with vertical launch tubes for hypersonic weapons. This upgrade will dramatically increase their strike range from a mere 63 miles to over 1,700 miles, making the Zumwalts relevant and formidable assets for deterring adversaries like China in the 21st century.
Key Points and Summary - This analysis argues that the U.S. Navy's traditional manned surface fleet may be entering a "bygone era," rendered increasingly obsolete by the threat of advanced anti-ship missiles and kamikaze drones.
-Citing recent, direct comments from senior Navy officials, the author details the service's active push towards a "ghost fleet" of unmanned surface and undersea vessels.
-Concepts already being solicited include unmanned barges armed with vertical missile launchers.
-While the author, a self-described traditionalist, has reservations, the momentum towards an unmanned naval revolution appears inevitable, potentially supplanting the need for large, crewed warships.
Is the U.S. Navy’s Surface Fleet Part of a Bygone Era?
The U.S. Navy has always depended on its surface fleet. Over its long history, the fleet has included a dominating array of destroyers, cruisers, battleships, or aircraft carriers. If you are a young sailor or officer, you are likely to be steered toward a job on a surface vessel. This is the essence of the Navy.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/technology/is-the-u-s-navy-s-surface-fleet-now-obsolete/ar-AA1L3zZ6?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=HCTS&cvid=7c8001fea6c04a19d7bed2e25e7ec7bf&ei=140
