Admiral James G. Foggo on Russia's Submarine Threat to the Atlantic

Russian Submarine Capabilities and Atlantic Threat

• 🇷🇺 Russia is significantly investing in its maritime capabilities, particularly its northern fleet, despite the conflict in Ukraine.
• 📈 There has been a 30% increase in Russian incursions into NATO waters in the last two years, with a primary concern being underwater activity.
• submarines like the Yasin class (Severodvinsk) are noted for their quiet operation and capability to carry hypersonic and cruise missiles.
• ⚠️ The Oscar 2 class (Belgorod) submarine is highlighted for its potential to carry the Poseidon underwater torpedo, a dual-capable (conventional and nuclear) weapon.
• ⚓ The threat extends to critical undersea infrastructure, with Russian reconnaissance ships like the Yantar suspected of mapping underwater cables and pipelines.

NATO's Response and Undersea Warfare

• 💡 The advantage NATO has held in the Atlantic since the end of World War II is at risk, requiring increased investment in undersea warfare.
• ⚔️ A proactive strategy of pushing back and drawing a line is advocated to deter Russian aggression, similar to past successful actions against the Russian shadow fleet.
• 🚢 NATO forces must actively track and shadow Russian deployments, demonstrating awareness and readiness to act.
• 🇺🇸 The US Navy's Astute class and Virginia class submarines are considered superior to current Russian counterparts.

Transatlantic Alliance and Defense Spending

• 🤝 Admiral Foggo strongly supports the Transatlantic Alliance, emphasizing NATO's role in maintaining peace and deterrence for 80 years.
• 💰 He agrees with the US National Security Strategy's call for increased defense spending by European nations, suggesting a 5% GDP target should be actively met.
• ⚓ The US has established a Joint Force Command in Norfolk, Virginia, to share responsibility for securing the Atlantic, indicating continued US commitment to NATO.
• 🚢 The US Navy is focusing on readiness, shipbuilding, and deterring potential adversaries through initiatives like "the foundry, the fleet, and the fight."