US Senators for Utah Mike Lee and John Curtis recently introduced two pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing the readiness and capabilities of the United States Navy and Coast Guard.
The "Ensuring Naval Readiness Act" and the "Ensuring Coast Guard Readiness Act" are designed to modernise and expedite the construction and procurement processes for US maritime forces by fostering increased collaboration with allied nations.
"Both bills are about leveraging our diplomatic relationships and the comparative advantages of our allies to ensure America remains at the forefront of maritime security," said Senator Lee. "By modernising our approach to shipbuilding and repair, we can enhance our readiness and maintain our military edge, all while ensuring fiscal responsibility."
"The Ensuring Naval Readiness Act and the Ensuring Coast Guard Readiness Act take common-sense measures to strengthen [the] navy and coast guard while keeping costs down and reinforcing our alliances with trusted partners," said Senator Curtis.
"The Ensuring Naval Readiness Act" addresses what Senators Lee and Curtis said are the critical shortfall in US naval forces, echoing the Force Structure Assessment's recommendation for a fleet of 355 ships to ensure a ready and capable navy.
By allowing the option to construct ships or components in shipyards of NATO member countries or Indo-Pacific nations with which the US has mutual defence agreements, this bill aims to reduce costs and speed up delivery times, helping to close the gap between current capabilities and strategic needs.
Following closely, "The Ensuring Coast Guard Readiness Act" proposes a strategic shift in the construction of US Coast Guard vessels. This legislation permits the coast guard to partner with allied shipyards to procure vessels more quickly and cost-effectively, without compromising national security.
The act specifically allows for the construction of major vessel components in foreign shipyards not influenced by adversarial powers, particularly China.