New U.S. Chief of Naval Operations: "A Design for Maintaining Maritime Superiority"

CDR Salamander put this up this CNO "Design" first, but it's in keeping with the strategy discussion posted here recently.

Before reading it, you should know that in 1974, VADM Stansfield Turner wrote an article for the USNI Proceedings, "Missions of the U.S. Navy," (may be behind a subscription wall) the subject of which we seem to be forced to repeat because of the short attention span of both the American public and our political class, which class seems intent on skimping on defense, despite a most challenging and dangerous environment, in order to buy votes with various social programs that have proved to be of dubious value except as  "money pits."

In any event, Admiral Turner discussed four Navy mission areas:
1. Strategic Deterrence;
2. Sea Control;
3. Projection of Power Ashore; and
4. Naval Presence.

As he wrote nearly 42 years ago:

One of the important challenges facing naval officers today is to define, then articulate, why we need a navy and what is should be able to accomplish for the country.

As you read the new CNO "Design" you will see that that challenge still exists today. In fact, that challenge may be even more severe today, when we seem to operate in a "What have you done for me lately?" mentality.

As you read through the CNO "Design" you will note that ADM Turner's 4 mission areas are still there - somewhat modified in terminology and somewhat altered by the tireless forces of time and technology - which like the enemy, get a vote.

Admiral Turner's fine essay is part of the USNI Wheelbook Naval Strategy book discussed yesterday.

CNO_STG