House Seapower Subcommittee Announces Proposals for 2021

The release by Reps. Courtney and Wittman details the need for four more V-22 Ospreys. U.S. NAVY / Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Vance Hand

ARLINGTON, Va. — The House Committee on Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces has announced its proposals for the mark-up of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021.

In a June 22 release, chairman Rep. Joe Courtney, D-Conn., and ranking member Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Va., released the proposals the day before the scheduled June 23 mark-up session.

Of major naval-related items, the proposal:

Recommends the restoration of a second Virginia-class submarine and the required advanced procurement to maintain the two-per-year build rate.
Recommends to the full committee that the Navy procure eight battle force ships, including one Columbia class fleet ballistic missile submarine; two Virginia-class submarines; two Arleigh Burke destroyers; one guided-missile frigate (FFG); and two T-ATS towing, salvage, and rescue ships.
Prohibits the retirement of littoral combat ships LCS 3 and LCS 4 until all operational tests have been completed.
Prohibits the retirement of any aircraft carrier before its first refueling.
Recommends six P-8 Poseidon aircraft.
Recommends four additional V-22 Osprey aircraft.
Authorizes efficient construction of the first two Columbia-class ballistic-missile submarines.
Restricts funds associated with the secretary of defense until the 30-year shipbuilding plan is delivered.
In fiscal 2021, prohibits the retirement of any Navy vessel until the secretary of defense provides a Navy force structure assessment.
Authorizes the procurement of up to four used sealift vessels.
Requires the secretary of defense to provide ship requirements to implement the Commandant’s Planning Guidance.
Establishes a Tanker Security Fleet to help fill the gap in at sea logistics.
Recommends funding of the fourth National Security Multi-Mission Vessel for the state maritime academies and recommends additional funds for previously authorized ships.
Continues to provide strict oversight of the Large Unmanned Surface Vessel.