Wittman Pushes for Reform of Navy Surface Fleet

Statement

Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1), Chairman of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, released this statement following today's joint hearing with the Readiness Subcommittee titled "Surface Warfare: At a Crossroads:"

"Today, we heard from Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer and Admiral John Richardson, Chief of Naval Operations, concerning the way forward for the structure of our surface fleet following the two tragic collisions in the Pacific. I am encouraged by their testimonies, as I believe they understand the magnitude of the issues we currently face. The Navy has taken important first steps in addressing initial systemic issues; however going forward, I believe there is a multitude of other issues that need to be reviewed including organization reform, manning deficiencies, material readiness, and training reform. I made it clear in the hearing today, my subcommittee is going to continue to drive toward accountability and providing solutions to the systemic problems that face the surface warfare community today. These collisions were absolutely avoidable, and reforms must be made -- we will make sure of it."

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