Global reach depends on moving and sustaining forces by sea. Naval forces can land troops, help establish an air base, and then move on once land and air forces take over local support. Long-range maritime patrol aircraft and strike capability belong to the same joint system, while keeping the fleet mobile makes it harder to locate and target. Information is useful only when a force can turn it into action through targeting and engagement. Afghanistan demonstrates the expense of airlifting even a relatively small force and the continuing dependence of sustained operations on bulk transport by other routes.
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Sea control, joint forces, and the information fight
Naval procurement must support long-range logistics, joint operations, sea control, and the ability to turn information into action.