Once again carriers may be needed for sea control missions in the NATO theatre. History may not repeat itself, but it does rhyme.
Admiral Warns America's East Coast Is No Longer A "Safe Haven" Thanks To Russian Subs - 4 February 2020
"Our new reality is that when our sailors toss the lines over and set sail, they can expect to be operating in a contested space once they leave Norfolk," Lewis said. "Our ships can no longer expect to operate in a safe haven on the East Coast or merely cross the Atlantic unhindered to operate in another location."
"We have seen an ever-increasing number of Russian submarines deployed in the Atlantic, and these submarines are more capable than ever, deploying for longer periods of time, with more lethal weapons systems," he continued. "Our sailors have the mindset that they are no longer uncontested and to expect to operate alongside our competitors each and every underway."
Allied Joint Force Command Norfolk declares Full Operational Capability - NATO 15 July 21
NATO’s newest operational command, established in July 2019 as part of the Alliance’s command structure adaptation, is the first NATO headquarters dedicated to the Atlantic since 2003. Its mission is to protect the Strategic Lines of Communication across all domains, protect sea-lanes between Europe and North America and enable the reinforcement of Europe.
Opening the ceremony on-board the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Vice Admiral Lewis acknowledged the importance of this achievement. “The security environment continues to grow more challenging and complex – particularly in the Atlantic. JFC Norfolk demonstrates NATO's dedication to security and stability in the region and sends a strong message of reassurance to both North Americans and Europeans, while serving as a powerful signal to deter any potential adversary”.
Last edited by WE Branch Fanatic; 9th Aug 2021 at 08:03.