Oversight Hearing – The United States Navy and Marine Corps

2025-05-14

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Summary

This meeting of the subcommittee convened to discuss the current posture, challenges, and future priorities of the Department of the Navy and the United States Marine Corps, hearing testimony from Secretary John Phelan, Admiral James Kilby, and General Eric Smith[ 00:24:46 ]

. Discussions highlighted critical issues ranging from shipbuilding delays and industrial base concerns to operational demands in global hotspots and the need for technological advancement and workforce development[ 00:25:08-00:26:38 ] .

Themes

Shipbuilding and Industrial Base Challenges

Lawmakers expressed deep concern over significant delays and cost overruns in critical shipbuilding programs, including the Columbia and Virginia-class submarines, Ford-class aircraft carriers, and Constellation-class frigates[ 00:26:36 ]

. These delays, attributed to workforce shortages, aging infrastructure, and supply chain issues, are seen as undermining strategic deterrence and fleet readiness, especially given China's rapid naval expansion[ 00:26:27 ] [ 00:28:03 ] . Secretary Phelan acknowledged the "hollowed-out" maritime industrial base and the need for accountability, improved business practices, and modernizing facilities, drawing comparisons to the efficiency of Japanese shipyards. The discussion also touched upon the impact of civilian personnel cuts on shipyard operations and the transition to fixed-price contracting models to foster shared risk and incentivize timely delivery[ 01:25:36-01:25:57 ] .

Operational Readiness and Global Threats

The Navy and Marine Corps are facing extraordinary operational demands, particularly from sustained combat operations against Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, which has provided invaluable insights but strained resources and personnel[ 00:25:14 ]

[ 00:25:19 ] . The Indo-Pacific presents a rising near-peer challenge from China, which is expanding its navy and capabilities, leading to calls for increased investment in long-range precision munitions and advanced systems[ 00:25:44 ] [ 00:25:50 ] [ 01:06:35 ] . Admiral Kilby outlined efforts to reduce maintenance delays, improve manning, and achieve an 80% combat surge-ready goal for platforms by January 2027. There was also a discussion on diversifying munition vendors and the need for a distributed fuel supply system in the Indo-Pacific following the defueling of Red Hill.

Workforce and Personnel Issues

Recruitment and retention remain critical challenges, compounded by difficult operational tempos and quality of life issues for service members and their families. General Smith emphasized initiatives like Barracks 2030 and family support programs, stating that retaining Marines means supporting their families. Concerns were raised regarding the impact of civilian personnel cuts on shipyards, potentially exacerbating maintenance delays and shifting burdens to military personnel. Secretary Phelan admitted to being "appalled" by the condition of some older barracks and pledged to improve living standards for service members.

Aircraft Carriers and Air Superiority

The critical role of aircraft carriers in power projection and air superiority was affirmed, but concerns were raised about the downward trend in strike fighter aircraft procurement and a growing shortfall. Lawmakers stressed the urgent need for sixth-generation fighters to counter adversaries like China, which is rapidly advancing its air capabilities. Admiral Kilby highlighted the 6th Gen fighter as key to the "air wing of the future" and underscored the carrier as the most survivable airfield, bringing mobility and mass fires to the joint force[ 01:36:32 ]

. The integration of unmanned systems with manned platforms for future air superiority was also discussed, with a focus on speed, scale, and adaptability[ 01:34:42 ] .

Marine Corps Transformation

General Smith outlined the Marine Corps' "righteous journey" to adapt to the changing character of war through Force Design 2030, focusing on a lighter, more agile, and distributed force. Key priorities include restoring the 3.0 amphibious-ready group Marine Expeditionary Unit presence, accelerating Force Design by fielding new capabilities, and improving quality of life[ 00:50:26 ]

[ 00:50:54 ] . Concerns were raised about the Army's decision to end the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) program without Marine Corps consultation, which will impact per-unit costs and the Marines' mobility strategy. Efforts to leverage artificial intelligence and low-cost attack drones for rapid responses and battlefield effects were also highlighted[ 02:32:12 ] .

Tone of the Meeting

The tone of the meeting was largely concerned and serious, reflecting the gravity of global instability and the significant challenges facing the Navy and Marine Corps[ 00:25:08 ]

[ 00:26:27 ] . There was a strong sense of urgency regarding shipbuilding delays, the need to modernize, and countering peer adversaries. Speakers were frank and direct in addressing issues such as bureaucracy, poor contracting, and operational shortfalls, with some expressing frustration over recurring problems and slow progress. Despite these concerns, there was also a collaborative and appreciative atmosphere, with members thanking the witnesses and military personnel for their service and commitment to finding solutions[ 00:24:50 ] [ 00:24:56 ] .