What ships, submarines and aircraft would you procure for the US Navy with $5 trillion a year?
Short answerThe proposals combine Zumwalt-derived missile ships, Japanese escort designs, Ford and possible CATOBAR Queen Elizabeth-derived carriers, unmanned vessels, submarine work, new landing ships and Japanese flying boats, supported by additional shipbuilding capacity.
NotesThe hypothetical starts with a 'super Burke' using a Zumwalt hull and power plant, extensive Mark 41 launch cells and retained Mark 57 launchers. Japanese escort-destroyer designs are proposed alongside continued Legend-class construction and a new yard run by Japanese shipbuilding expertise. Widespread OTO Melara 76 mm guns are proposed, including close-in defensive use. Ford-class production would continue, with CATOBAR Queen Elizabeth design work considered for additional carriers. A San Antonio-derived ballistic-missile-defence ship, unmanned vessels and accelerated Marine Corps landing-vessel work are also proposed. Any new nuclear battleship would require another yard rather than interrupting carrier production. Japanese long-range flying boats would complement P-8s and carry logistical supplies. Submarine proposals include accelerating Orca work and continuing attention to the Virginia class.