Naval forces provide policy-makers with unique flexibility. We can quickly position a powerful fighting force off the coast of a country, out of sight to influence subtly or within sight to make a strong statement. Similarly, we can remove ourselves from the situation quickly once our objectives have been achieved. We can shift our forces rapidly between regions in reaction to changes in the world situation. Our forces can be deployed into a theater, disperse to conduct a wide variety of operations and then regroup quickly to form a powerful battle force.
Force projection is our number one warfighting priority.
To be effective in support of national policy we must have the ability to influence events on land and at sea. When required, we must be able to respond with appropriate firepower from our carrier, surface, submarine and amphibious forces to take the battle to the enemy. Sea control is a fundamental function of the Navy and is defined as the ability to control designated areas in, over and under the sea as necessary to perform our mission. It does not necessarily mean permanent control of an entire ocean. Instead, it is selective, requiring that we control specific portions of the ocean whenever needed.