Huge US Naval Force Off Israel Comes With Costs

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New Featured Series: "Up for Debate"

“Up for Debate” is a project of the Center for Maritime Strategy geared towards driving thoughtful, energizing discussion about pressing issues facing the U.S. Sea Services and international maritime security.

Our monthly series places two contrasting expert views into written conversation with each other about a timely issue of maritime significance. “Up for Debate” provides a platform for respectful and informed debate which can shape thinking about maritime strategy and security policy. The authors’ arguments are their own, not reflecting any institutional perspectives.

Read the September edition here and stay tuned for the October feature!

In the News

In Europe’s Edge, October 20, 2023: Huge US Naval Force Off Israel Comes With Costs

By Admiral James G. Foggo (ret.) MSC & Steven Wills

The U.S. Navy has significantly increased its presence in the Eastern Mediterranean following threats from Yemen, marking its largest deployment in 40 years. ?

In The Jerusalem Strategic Tribune , October 18, 2023: Where’s the Nearest Carrier?

By Admiral James G. Foggo (ret.) MSC

Following Israel's declaration of war on Hamas, the U.S. deployed aircraft carriers USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Eisenhower to the Eastern Mediterranean to deter conflict expansion and support Israel.?

Interviewed by Alison Bath, Stars and Stripes , October 18, 2023: U.S. Navy ships in Mediterranean bring considerable abilities to help Israel if called upon

By Steven Wills

The U.S. deployed two Navy carrier groups to the eastern Mediterranean to support Israel against Hamas and deter regional escalation, though experts believe Israel may manage without extensive U.S. aid if conflicts stay localized.?

Featured Publications

In?The MOC October 19, 2023: Unmanned Vessels as Sensors in U.S. Naval Operations

By Jonathan Panter

The Ukrainian Armed Forces use naval drones against Russian warships, while the U.S. Navy experiments with various unmanned maritime technologies. However, integrating these systems into naval operations poses challenges related to data management and environmental adaptation.?

In The MOC October 17, 2023: The Swedish Navy brings Capable Forces to NATO

By Steven Wills

Sweden's anticipated NATO entry promises to bolster maritime capabilities in the Baltic and High North, as the nation enhances its naval forces and brings its "total defense" strategy to the alliance.?

Recent Happenings

Airbus U.S. Space & Defense and CMS Announce Partnership to Counter IUUF??

The Center for Maritime Strategy welcomes the partnership of Airbus U.S. Space and Defense, a trusted U.S. government leader in military aircraft, satellites, geospatial intelligence and cyber capabilities.

The IUUF Working Group convenes key members of the U.S. government, academia, industry, and international partners, allowing stakeholders to discuss the issues presented by and challenges in dealing with illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Support from Airbus will advance the Center’s analysis, publications, and high-level convenings engaging key stakeholders across government, academia, and industry to drive national security policies rooted in promoting peace, prosperity, and security.

Discussing the Unmanned Systems

Earlier this month, Dr. Steven Wills participated in the 2nd Annual UxS West symposium in San Diego. With other distinguished panelists, Dr. Wills discussed the implications of the unmanned systems and the Black Sea.?

Podcast: Maritime Nation?

Quo Vadis: The Commission on the Future of the Navy

The Admiral's Reading List

In Breaking Defense , October 19, 2023: New Pentagon report details China’s growing nuclear arsenal, possible new missile effort

By Ashley Roque

In its latest China Military Power report, the Pentagon states that Beijing finished constructing over 300 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) silos in the past year, possibly developing a missile system capable of reaching the western US. As of May 2023, China possesses over 500 nuclear warheads, a number expected to exceed 1,000 by 2030. The report also reveals increased tensions around Taiwan, citing the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) intensified activities in the region. Furthermore, the PLA is modernizing its equipment, with China now having the world's largest navy and a dominant aviation force in the Indo-Pacific.