Deterrence applies to nuclear and non-nuclear conflict. During peacetime, forward-deployed forces promote regional stability and discourage aggression by their very presence in potential trouble spots around the world. Forward presence is essential to maintain stability and for timely response to crises. Forward-deployed naval forces help preserve U.S. influence overseas, even in places where we have no bases or political access. They enhance our ability to deter aggression, promote regional stability, strengthen diplomatic relations abroad and respond quickly to crises.
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.