
Squaring the Circle Maritime Domain and Sea Power with Dr. Salvatore Mercogliano
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May 10, 2025 Salvatore Mercogliano, an associate professor of history with expertise in maritime studies, dives into the intricacies of maritime power and its historical context. He discusses the need for reform in the Jones Act to modernize American coastal trade. Mercogliano sheds light on the challenges posed by non-state actors like the Houthi movement and China's growing naval capabilities. The conversation also explores contemporary naval strategies, emphasizing the importance of embracing history and ongoing learning to navigate future maritime challenges.
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WWII Shipping Lessons for Today
- U.S. WWII victory hinged on massive prewar shipping and industrial mobilization enabling a late-war breakthrough.
- Current forces risk stalemate in prolonged conflict without a surge in late-war material production.
Challenges with Naval Drone Use
- Naval use of drones is inconsistent and lacks coherent doctrine.
- Drone swarms pose a growing threat that could overwhelm ship defenses and outpace reload capabilities.
Aircraft Carrier's Enduring Value
- Aircraft carriers remain the Navy's most versatile and powerful platform with significant lethal capacity.
- Their limited number and distribution constrain rapid response and require reconsideration alongside surface combatant platforms.






