#Naval forces

The United States is moving toward a new era of undersea nuclear dominance, as next-generation Columbia-class submarines promise quieter operations, longer endurance, and more flexible deterrence—while lawmakers explore expanding the fleet to further strengthen America’s strategic edge over Russia and China.

The oil-rich states of the Persian Gulf have built one of the most advanced air and missile defense networks on the planet—but recent combat experience suggests even this layered shield may struggle against a sustained Iranian drone and missile assault, raising urgent questions about the security of US forces and allies across the region.

Russia is preparing to overhaul its entire nuclear-powered attack submarine fleet, replacing aging Soviet-era boats with a smaller but far more capable force built around Yasen-class submarines—reshaping its undersea strategy for decades to come.