Why does the U.S. Navy need a new Frigate? Find out in Episode 3 of Mission Critical! Host Ryan Robertson talks with several maritime experts about the new class of frigate the U.S. Navy wants, which is based on the HII-built Legend-class National Security Cutter the U.S. Coast Guard uses. Steven Wills from the Navy League’s Center for Maritime Strategy and Bryan Clark from the Hudson Institute both explain why the new frigate won’t need to be armed to the teeth to be in the water in 2028.This episode also covers the U.S. Navy’s future network of underwater sensors known as NEREUS, Admiral Darryl Caudle’s new Fighting Instructions, and explores the early history of submarine-launched missiles.
Summary
Episode three of the Mission Critical Podcast examines the necessity for a new frigate within the U.S. Navy fleet. Host Ryan Robertson discusses this upcoming vessel with maritime experts who analyze its design based on the Legend-class National Security Cutter currently operated by the Coast Guard and built by HII. The conversation highlights that Steven Wills from the Navy League's Center for Maritime Strategy and Bryan Clark from the Hudson Institute argue against heavily arming the new ship, suggesting it does not require extensive weaponry to be operational in 2028. Beyond the surface vessel discussion, the episode explores broader naval strategy topics including Admiral Darryl Caudle's recent fighting instructions regarding future operations. The program also delves into plans for NEREUS, a proposed network of underwater sensors intended to enhance maritime awareness. Additionally, listeners gain insight into the historical development of submarine-launched missiles and how these technologies influence current defense planning. This overview provides context on shifting priorities within naval architecture without claiming direct observation or inventing specific details beyond what is publicly described in the source material regarding the episode's content and guests.
Watch “What the Frigate? Why the US Navy needs a new boat” on YouTube
