Palm Coast Times

On Monday, U.S. Congressman Mike Waltz (FL-06) participated in a discussion organized by the Heritage Foundation and the Allison Center for National Security. The event centered around the topic of U.S. maritime security and whether the country's Navy is adequately prepared to counter the threat posed by communist China.

During the event, Congressman Waltz joined Senior Research Fellow Brent Sadler in analyzing the current state of the U.S. Navy and exploring potential strategies to reverse its decline. The discussion aimed to shed light on the challenges faced by the Navy and the steps that need to be taken to ensure the nation's security.

When discussing the importance of maritime security, Congressman Waltz highlighted the strategic significance of the seas and the role they play in shaping global affairs. He emphasized the need for a strong Navy to safeguard U.S. interests and counter any potential threats.

"The United States has always been a maritime power. Our Navy has played a vital role in protecting our interests and projecting our influence around the world," stated Congressman Waltz.

Brent Sadler, the Senior Research Fellow at the Allison Center for National Security, echoed Congressman Waltz's sentiment and stressed the need to address the decline of the U.S. Navy. He pointed out that China's rapidly expanding maritime capabilities pose a significant challenge that must be met with urgency.

"The rise of communist China has transformed the global maritime landscape. We cannot afford to ignore the challenges it presents to our national security," Sadler remarked.

During the discussion, Congressman Waltz and Sadler delved into the specific areas where the U.S. Navy needs improvement. They highlighted the importance of investing in advanced technologies, such as unmanned systems and artificial intelligence, to enhance the Navy's capabilities and maintain its superiority.

Congressman Waltz also emphasized the need for increased shipbuilding to ensure that the U.S. Navy maintains a robust fleet. He underscored the importance of having a sufficient number of ships to effectively respond to any potential threats.

"Our Navy must have the necessary resources and modernized assets to counter any aggression and protect our national security," Congressman Waltz stated.

The event concluded with both Congressman Waltz and Sadler agreeing on the urgent need for action. They emphasized the importance of bipartisan support and collaboration to address the challenges facing the U.S. Navy and ensure the country's maritime security.

As the discussion drew to a close, Congressman Waltz reaffirmed his commitment to working towards strengthening the U.S. Navy and protecting the nation's interests.

"Our Navy is the backbone of our national defense. We must prioritize its modernization and provide our sailors with the tools they need to succeed," he concluded.

The Heritage Foundation event provided a platform for experts and policymakers to analyze the current state of U.S. maritime security and discuss potential strategies to address the challenges posed by communist China. Congressman Waltz's participation showcased his dedication to national security and his determination to strengthen the U.S. Navy in the face of evolving threats.