According to Steve Forbes, America is facing a critical challenge that could have severe implications for global security. The U.S. has seen a significant decline in its ability to manufacture weapons, aircraft, ships, and submarines, making the world a more dangerous place. This failure is not just an internal issue but an invitation for adversaries to become more aggressive, increasing the risk of global conflict.

A Shrinking Navy

A Shrinking Navy
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Forbes highlights the alarming state of the U.S. Navy. While China has been rapidly expanding its fleet, the number of U.S. ships continues to dwindle. The South China Sea, a vital trade route, is increasingly becoming a zone of Chinese dominance. The U.S. has historically guaranteed the free flow of commercial vessels through this area, but this guarantee is becoming less credible without a strong naval presence to enforce it.

Industrial Base Erosion

Industrial Base Erosion
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One of the fundamental challenges in addressing this issue is the erosion of the U.S. industrial base. Forbes points out that the number of skilled workers required to build and maintain a modern naval fleet is insufficient. The loss of industrial capacity and expertise severely hampers efforts to close the growing gap between U.S. and Chinese naval capabilities.

Weapon Systems Failures

Weapon Systems Failures
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Adding to the problem are the failures of key weapon systems. Forbes cites the Zumwalt-class destroyers and the Littoral Combat Ship as examples of projects that have not lived up to expectations. Despite substantial investments, these programs have faced significant technical and operational issues, further diminishing the U.S. Navy’s effectiveness.

Submarine Fleet Concerns

Submarine Fleet Concerns
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While the U.S. still maintains an advantage with its missile-carrying submarines, Forbes warns that China is working tirelessly to neutralize this capability. The U.S. needs more submarines of various kinds, but current production levels are far below what is necessary. Additionally, maintenance of the existing fleet is inadequate, compounding the problem.

Land-Based Weapon Shortages

Land Based Weapon Shortages
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The situation is no better on land. The U.S. has significantly reduced its stockpiles of critical weapons to support allies like Ukraine and Israel. Forbes notes that the U.S. production capacity for essential munitions, such as artillery rounds and missiles, is far below the levels needed to replace those expended. It could take years, if not decades, to replenish these stocks.

Russia’s Growing Military Production

Russias Growing Military Production
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In contrast, Russia has ramped up its war production capabilities despite setbacks. Forbes highlights that Russian factories are now producing nearly three times the number of artillery rounds as the U.S. and NATO combined. This growing disparity is a cause for concern as it suggests that adversaries are not only aware of but are exploiting the weaknesses in U.S. military production.

Bureaucratic Inefficiencies

Bureaucratic Inefficiencies
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Forbes criticizes the U.S. procurement system as a bureaucratic mess that leads to cost overruns and delays. Chronic changes in orders and uncertain funding year-to-year contribute to this inefficiency. Despite the pressing need for a robust defense capability, these systemic issues prevent timely and effective responses to emerging threats.

Inadequate Defense Budgets

Inadequate Defense Budgets
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One of the most scandalous points Forbes makes is the Biden Administration’s approach to defense budgets. Despite the growing threats, the administration has proposed cutting the defense budget in real terms each year. Forbes argues that this dereliction of duty regarding national security exacerbates the already dire situation.

Awaiting New Leadership

Awaiting New Leadership
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Forbes concludes that addressing this urgent crisis will likely have to wait until a new president takes office. The current administration’s approach has failed to meet the fundamental role of ensuring national security, leaving the U.S. and its allies vulnerable.

“Personal Accountability?”

Personal Accountability
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People in the comments had some questions: “Global corporatists like the people Forbes celebrates sent our manufacturing base to China and Mexico.  What ever happened to personal accountability Mr Forbes?”

Another commenter added: “So what have the results of building more weapons in the real world been so far?”

One person said: “US has a $1trillion defense budget, but not enough weapons?”

A Troubling Picture

A Troubling Picture
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The insights shared by Steve Forbes paint a troubling picture of America’s military readiness. As geopolitical tensions rise, the inability to maintain and expand a capable defense force could lead to severe consequences. The erosion of industrial capabilities and bureaucratic inefficiencies must be addressed urgently. Ensuring that America can protect its interests and those of its allies is paramount in maintaining global stability.

Immediate Steps

Immediate Steps
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What are your thoughts?  What immediate steps can the U.S. take to revitalize its industrial base and skilled workforce for military production? How can the procurement process be reformed to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and cost overruns? What role should private industry play in enhancing the U.S. military’s manufacturing capabilities?
Explore the full insights by viewing the video on Forbes’ YouTube channel here.