How can US justify $2.6 billion on new sub?

[LoBlo]

Originally Posted by Henson

MY question is, are we getting enough value for the money we're spending. When I take a look at our FUBAR procurement process, I am forced to feel that we may not be.

Its scary where we are headed. The boats aren't getting any cheaper, but the budgets are. The need for naval capabilities is increasing (as US strategic bases and allied support will probably continue to decline), but maintaining the sub building expertise is getting tougher.

Maybe Tango Bravo will bring *some* new answers, and the Naval is asking for some steep improvements in cost effectiveness and efficiency. 40% reductions in powerplant size/cost without sacraficing peak power/quietness. Most automation is a requirement also or course.

There are probably tons of areas for improvement that are far from optimal. Here's an really interesting article about some small improvements in naval protocals and processes that have enabled **very** dramatic improvements. There's probably as much room for improvement in a lot of the sub building areas.

http://www.navyleague.org/sea_power/may06-38.php

Also, hopefully eventually electricfying subs (electrice drive and integrated electrical systems) will allow more opprotunity for private sector technology, expertise, & development to be utilized (which will drive cost down), rather than the now highly specialized and unique expertised so often required for sub systems today.

If subs can stay arond the 2billion dollar mark for the next 2 decades its a step in the right direction.