A conversation with Sal Mercogliano prompts a personal prescription for the US Navy's force mix. More National Security Cutters would cover patrol and presence work, while Constellation-class frigates would provide the next level of combat capability. The Littoral Combat Ship is treated as an unnecessary middle tier in that preferred structure. Nuclear-powered cruisers are also proposed for the high end. This is an individual recommendation rather than current US Navy policy.
Notable Point · 21:30-22:10
A personal US Navy mix skips the LCS tier
National Security Cutters, Constellation-class frigates, and nuclear cruisers form a personal alternative to a force structure that includes the Littoral Combat Ship.