12-12-2014, 04:40 PM
(12-12-2014, 03:53 PM)RetroPug Wrote: I completely agree though, it is a terrifying amount of money and the case could be made by someone that we don't need these capabilities. I wouldn't pretend to know whether or not we do really.
Time over time those that have either had them removed or give them up soon get walked all over.
I don't see us getting invaded by anyone, but at least we can sit at the big table and people listen to our voice over international matters.
I take your point about range, but I would think a modern diesel sub is capable of thousands of miles of range before refuelling.
But if the task is to loiter then less fuel is used.
That said, these days all ballistic missile subs are nuclear aren't they? perhaps maybe the Chinese have some that aren't ?
Is that more about projection of power (anywhere any time) than it is about the costs.
The military likes big things painted green
