One proposed investment is two nuclear-rated surface-ship construction facilities on each US coast. That would require an additional East Coast facility and two new or converted facilities on the West Coast. A large ship just below CVN size would provide surge aviation capacity without sending a nuclear carrier to every demand. Developing the CGN(X) concept is another proposed investment. A separate suggestion considers cancelling Virginia Block V boats because their substantial guided-missile capacity raises concerns about how politicians would employ them. The Osprey's complexity also prompts doubts about its suitability as a Greyhound replacement, although few airframes of the required size and shape are available.
Notable Point · 1:11:21-1:14:06
Nuclear shipyard capacity and alternative US fleet investments
Alternative US fleet investments include more nuclear-capable yards and surge aviation capacity, alongside concerns about missile-heavy submarines and carrier logistics aircraft.