Both political parties in the United States have recognized three key elements of a balanced defence policy. First, despite the high costs of their Iraq and Afghanistan commitment, their leaders recognize you must retain a viable navy for all the other security challenges likely to arise. Second, with a building rate of two submarines a year, they intend on maintaining a capable sub fleet for the long term. It will have 50 hulls. Finally, they recognize the only affordable ship building plan is based on a continuous building rate of a few ships per year. They understand that attempting to recapitalize all the ships of class in one mega project is not smart for the political class, the shipbuilding industry, the navy, or the taxpayer.
Regrettably, there is no sign that any of these lessons are being understood in Ottawa.
