The chief of naval operations (CNO) presented a keynote address at the U.S. Naval War College's 60th annual Current Strategy Forum June 16.
Adm. Gary Roughead, CNO, stressed the importance of the Navy's ability to adapt in the face of modern warfare.
"We believe that preventing war is as important as winning war," Roughead said.
The two-day forum themed "Seizing Strategic Opportunities: Challenging the Paradigm" presented the perspective of the nation's leading experts on how the Navy can both meet future challenges and identify opportunities to promote a more stable world.
"I think one of the greatest challenges we will have in the future is being able to exercise sea control wherever and whenever we will be called to do so," said Roughead.
Roughead explained the importance of the seas in terms of commerce, communication and resources. Oceans hold 95 percent of the world's trade routes, in addition to 65 percent of its oil reserves and 35 percent of its natural gas reserves. With a greater need to provide security on the seas, wage irregular warfare and combat piracy, the Navy must be multimission capable and always ready to perform.
Commenting on the Sailors and officers in today's Navy, CNO said the Navy demonstrates excellent service with a highly professional fleet.
"We must be able to attract and maintain the fine men and women who serve," CNO said. "This is the best Navy, today, in which I have ever served."
Tyler Will (NNS)
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