The criticism of a two-ship opening order rests on America's two-ocean responsibilities and wider global commitments. The small Constellation and Zumwalt runs supply cautionary comparisons, and the preferred initial order is at least four ships. Recovering the investment in design and development would, in this estimate, require roughly eight to twelve. These are proposed quantities for making the program worthwhile, rather than funded orders. An early-2030s target also raises concern about a construction program extending across successive presidencies.
Notable Point · 8:25-9:50
Fleet commitments and the economics of a two-ship order
An initial order of at least four and an eventual eight to twelve ships are proposed against the two-ship announcement, with global commitments and development costs in view.