Merely moving the Pacific Fleet to Hawaii does not make it a deterrent. Admirals James O. Richardson and Husband E. Kimmel argued that the deployment needed supplies, protection, reconnaissance assets, and a proper base. With that support, Hawaii becomes a credible forward position; without it, the concentration of ships can advertise vulnerability. The example leads back to treaty design, since a navy denied the forces it believes necessary may act from fear and insecurity. Perceived strength shapes both an opponent's calculation and a state's confidence in the agreement.
Notable Point · 1:41:32-1:44:41
A forward fleet needs a functioning base
Admirals James O. Richardson and Husband E. Kimmel illustrate why moving the Pacific Fleet to Hawaii could signal weakness unless reconnaissance, protection, logistics, and other support followed.