On Design of a New Surface Force

Low-mix surface action groups SAGs, fully connected and augmented by enhanced capability replenishment ships can perform a very broad range of tasks, and fill in the gaps left by insufficient numbers of more capable units. A new surface force must be procured in sufficient numbers to provide the scope as well as depth of coverage demanded by the diverse, global threats characterizing the early 21st century. This imperative for numerical sufficiency tends to drive ship designs toward economy. Since unit cost and capability are usually directly related, some manner of compromise between quality and quantity will have to be made. To offset the limitations of a low-mix surface navy, robust and fully integrated C3, coupled with an enhanced replenishment ship, could be become powerful, mobile, flexible grids of warships in which individual units would be employed as weapon systems. Similar to the individual gun systems of a battleship, these separate ships would be controlled centrally, operating synergistically according to the mission at hand. A key element of this new notional SAG is the enhanced capability replenishment ship serving all of the traditional replenishment functions as well as being a ready service locker for remotely controlled ordnance. The immense capacities of modern ROROCargo ships affords a quantum leap in SAG capability. New technology, particularly in C4I, have made the distinctions between high- and low-mix surface naval forces murky. Innovative mating of design and doctrine can lessen our dependence on the few capital ships expected to reside in our Navy in the near term. The United States Navys need for powerful, effective, and deployed SAGs is even more necessary as we move into the 21st century. SAGs made of frigate squadrons and an enhanced capability replenishment ship fit the bill both operationally and economically.