The F-35 was designed to be an international program from its inception.

Elimination of one leg of the triad would move the Nation into uncharted territory.

the United States must shape its [nuclear] deterrent forces to maintain the attributes which lead to stability among major powers

the Virginia-class submarine provides a critical platform for our special operators, especially in anti-access and area-denial environments?

You specifically cite the threat that Iranian small boats and cruise missiles represent.

would it be accurate to describe the Persian Gulf and the seas adjacent to Iran as an increasingly anti-access and area-denial environment?

Admiral McRaven, looking well into the future, are you concerned about the projected 60 percent reduction in undersea strike volume?

Thank you, Secretary Mabus, General Amos, and Admiral Greenert, for being here this morning.

These are choices that we are certainly, we know from even Secretary Panetta's testimony, taking on some risk with.

I am also concerned about our four public shipyards and the fact that this year's military construction budget does not, again, contain much-needed dollars for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

We're actually seeing that on the ground?

I'm pleased to see that the Navy is considering enhancements to the Virginia-class subs.

Earlier last month, Senators Gillibrand, Collins, and I sent a letter to the administration to raise specific concerns about the threat of what happens to those conventional and chemical weapons.

I think they are very proud of their contribution. I know that we all appreciate it very much.

I do have some concerns that it not be used as an excuse to further reduce defense spending among our NATO allies.

I'm very proud of our 157th Air Refueling Wing, because we have the highest utilization rate in the Air National Guard for the KC-135.

I appreciate the KC-46A program, and I know that you're going to be going to the basing criteria soon.

I hope you will take an active and personal role with our international partners on the F-35 program.