| Publication |
2014.
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| Summary/Abstract |
High-end surface combatants are an unfashionable topic in defense circles today. Symbolic of traditional views and conventions, these vessels are modern manifestations of the ancient principle that peace and stability proceed from credible military power. The instruments of a surface combatant's influence are not cyberspace, special forces, or unmanned systems, but big guns and missiles. The most capable warships are notoriously expensive, and threaten to dominate the Navy's budget if pursued in earnest. In an era of shrinking fleets and shrinking funding, "quantity" is the catchphrase of the day.
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