Better post on subs

POST: To Connect the Gaps, Build the Bridge Underwater, Information Dissemination, January 24, 2008

As I dance around between so many domains in my writings, I often suffer the casual sin of blithely underestimating the depth of thinking out there that likewise seeks to think horizontally. I am being especially egregious in that habit on the blog lately as I concentrate heavily on the next book.

Galrahn gently calls me to task on a recent blog post concerning subs, where he notes that current Navy thinking is trying hard to discern the synergistic trade-offs between underwater and surface assets WRT [with regard to] the Leviathan/SysAdmin functions.

His comments are well worth reading, as they suggest a depth of understanding and a breadth of vision significantly superior to my own on the subject.

I often err when I drill down. That is an occupational hazard. Attracting the corrections of someone with Galrahn's talents is an occupational joy.

If my blog does not link to his, someone slap Sean on the wrist.

[Ed: Just added it, so keep your grub hooks to yourself ;-)]

What I would challenge Galrahn to do next is crank a post that explains the Corbett concept in plainer English. I think it is an important one, and I'd like to get smarter on it.

As a grand strategist committed to forcing the change function, you get in the habit of pounding away unmercifully at old think. Sometimes that can blind you to serious efforts at new think. As much as I get embarrassed when I get caught doing that, it is a very good feeling professionally.

I want my vision to be superseded. I want to lose currency as I grow old. I want the next generation to kick my ass.

Comments

[zenpundit]

I second the call for Galrahn on Corbett.

I think Younghusband or Curzon did a Corbett post a while back at Coming Anarchy but this is a subject where the surface can be more than scratched. Never read Corbett firsthand myself and would like to know more.

[Galrahn]

Speaking for the crew, we are humbled by the compliment.

Corbett will continue to be a featured guest on the blog as opportunity allows.

[Robert Kawaratani]

One of the best aspects of this site is that it fosters dialog as opposed to flame wars. Although your response to my comment on your original article regarding the role of submarines was certainly appropriate, the converted Ohio class submarines would have advantages over destroyers in station keeping endurance, etc. I look forward to your considerations of the appropriate mix of naval capabilities for meeting the strategic/tactical needs that you have identified.