The U.S. Navy's Virginia-Class Submarine Nightmare Is Just Getting Started | The National Interest
The U.S. Navy's Virginia-Class Submarine Nightmare Is Just Getting Started | The National Interest The article discusses the challenges faced by American shipyards in meeting the demand for new warships, particularly the Virginia-class submarines. Despite substantial government funding, shipyards are hindered by a lack of competition, skilled labor shortages, and overwhelmed infrastructure. This situation threatens U.S. naval readiness and capability, especially in the context of growing Chinese military advancements in the Indo-Pacific region. The author emphasizes the importance of submarines in projecting U.S. naval power, as they can operate beneath the reach of China's anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) systems. However, delays in the construction of the Block V variant of the Virginia-class submarine highlight the shipyards' struggles. The article suggests that the U.S. government should intervene with a strategy and resources to revitalize America's shipbuilding cap