In an era where geopolitical tensions simmer, the United States’ nuclear-powered submarines stand as the cornerstone of its military might, indispensable in deterring adversaries like China. The Biden administration’s strategic alliance with Australia and the United Kingdom, known as AUKUS, has underscored the critical role of submarine technology in modern warfare. For the first time, the U.S. has agreed to share nuclear submarine technology and sell several nuclear-powered attack submarines to Australia.
However, this alliance has uncovered a pressing concern: the United States faces a deficit in its submarine production capacity. Aging submarines are being retired faster than they can be replaced, and the ship building industry is years behind schedule. This has raised alarms among lawmakers like Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), who serves as ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Wicker supports AUKUS but questions the nation’s ability to fulfill its commitments to Australia.
The China Challenge and the Importance of Naval Superiority
“The intelligence couldn’t be clearer… China is preparing for a war and specifically for a war with the United States,” Wicker asserted on the Senate floor. “The AUKUS deal will help prevent that war from happening.”
China’s ambitious military expansion, particularly its “Great Underwater Wall” initiative, poses a significant threat to U.S. naval superiority. To counter this, the Navy requires 66 attack submarines, but currently has only 49. Meeting the AUKUS commitments would necessitate the construction of 2.33 Virginia-class submarines per year.
“The basic fact is this: Our defense industrial base is not where it needs to be,” Wicker acknowledged. “We need to build up our industrial base and bring more Americans into the workforce, especially in the submarine sector.”
The U.S. Navy’s Response: “Uncle Sam Wants You!”
To address the submarine shortage, the U.S. Navy has launched a comprehensive strategy involving partnerships with private industry, state and local governments, community colleges, and non-profits. Their aim is to recruit and train 100,000 Americans to work in the submarine industry.
“We’re going through a generational change in the workforce,” explained Navy Under Secretary Erik Raven. “We need to build new talent, bring in more Americans to work in the sector, and improve our supply chain.”
Echoing the sentiments of a bygone era, the Navy has initiated a modern-day “Uncle Sam Wants You!” campaign, appealing to patriotism and the opportunity for long-term employment in a sector vital to national security.
Encouraging Americans to Serve and Innovate
Non-profit organizations like the BlueForge Alliance play a crucial role in helping the Navy hire and train the necessary workforce. They emphasize the high-paying, family-sustaining jobs available, but also highlight the sense of purpose and service that comes with working in the submarine industry.
Raven elaborated on the technological advancements that drive submarine innovation. “Submarines have a unique role in securing peace around the world. Their ability to move unchallenged through the seas is an incredible advantage. And the United States builds and operates the world’s most advanced submarines.”
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The United States must prioritize the reinforcement of its submarine industrial base to maintain its naval dominance and deter potential adversaries. By investing in technology, recruiting and training a robust workforce, and fostering a spirit of innovation, the U.S. can ensure its submarines remain the cornerstone of its defense for generations to come. As Raven succinctly put it, “These are good, dependable jobs with a long future. No matter your skills or experience, there’s a role for you in helping us build submarines.”
