Richard Shelby: “That's a big leap, isn't it?”

We have got to get our arms, one, around the inflation first, and then try to boost our defense capabilities in a dangerous world.

With inflation at the highest levels we've seen in 40 years, the request represents a cut from the 2022 level.

As Senator Shelby at our Senate testimony hearing last March pointed out to us, we must maintain what we have before we can build new, and I think he hits the mark head-on.

The Department of Navy has played and will continue to play a critical role in the defense of our Nation.