The chief of naval operations (CNO) testified before the Subcommittee on Defense, Senate Committee of Appropriations; the House Subcommittee on Defense, Committee on Appropriations; and the Senate Armed Services Committee June 2-4 about his priorities for fiscal year 2010.
Adm. Gary Roughead, CNO, informed Congress that his top priorities continue to be building tomorrow's Navy, remaining ready to fight today and developing and supporting Sailors and Navy civilians. He said the Navy has made significant progress in all three of those areas in the last year.
"Sustaining our Navy's maritime dominance requires the right balance of capability and capacity for the challenges of today and those we are likely to face in the future. It demands our Navy remain agile and ready," CNO said.
Roughead stated that the Navy needs a stable shipbuilding program that provides the right balance for the fleet while preserving the nation's industrial base. He said that 10 new ships have joined the fleet during the last year and that he remains committed to a carrier force of 11 for the next three decades.
"In our drive to build the future fleet, I continue to demand that we accurately articulate requirements and remain disciplined in our processes," Roughead said.
"As I testified last year, effective procurement requires affordable and realistic programs to deliver a balanced future fleet."
He then expressed to Congress how essential the Sailors, Navy civilians and their families are to the Navy maintaining its maritime dominance.
"Our talented and dedicated Sailors and Navy civilians are the critical component to the Navy's maritime strategy. I am committed to providing the necessary resources and shaping our personnel policies to ensure our people are personally and professionally supported in their service to our nation," said Roughead.
He concluded his testimony by confirming his dedication to the Navy, its people and its capabilities.
"The men and women, active and reserve, Sailor and civilian, of our Navy are extraordinarily capable, motivated, and dedicated to preserving our national security and prosperity," CNO said. "We are fully committed to the current fight and to ensuring continued U.S. global leadership in a cooperative world."
Rebekah Blowers (NNS)
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