CAVASSHIPS Podcast [Feb 21 ’25] Ep: 181 Headline Review w/ USNI News

The world of naval and maritime affairs is constantly evolving, with new developments and challenges emerging every day. In a recent episode of the CavasShips Podcast, Christopher P. Cavas and Chris Servello delved into the various budget, leadership, and carrier-related questions facing the US Navy. Joining them were Sam Lagrone and Mallory Shelbourne from USNI News, offering their insights into the pressing issues at hand.

Australian-Chinese Naval Exercises:

On February 20, the Australian government issued warnings to commercial aircraft to steer clear of the Tasman Sea due to unannounced Chinese Navy live-fire exercises. These exercises, involving the launching of cruise missiles, took place in waters off Australia’s southeastern coast, catching the country off guard. The presence of Chinese ships, including the Type 055 destroyer ZUNYI, frigate HENGYANG, and support ship WEISHANHU, raised concerns about the escalation of tensions in the region.

Canadian Frigate Transit:

In a show of solidarity with the US, the Canadian frigate OTTAWA navigated the Taiwan Strait on February 16th, following the footsteps of American naval ships. This transit, which drew protests from China, marked the sixth time a Canadian warship had passed through the strait in recent years. The presence of foreign naval vessels in the sensitive waterway underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the Indo-Pacific region.

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USS HARRY S TRUMAN Incident:

The USS HARRY S TRUMAN, a US aircraft carrier, found itself in a precarious situation after colliding with the Turkish-owned bulker BESIKTAS-M off Port Said, Egypt on February 12. Despite sustaining damage to its starboard quarter, the carrier continued its flight operations. Following the incident, Captain Dave Snowden was relieved of his command, and Captain Christopher Hill assumed temporary leadership of the vessel. The incident highlights the challenges and risks associated with naval operations in congested maritime environments.

Farewell to the UNITED STATES:

In a bittersweet moment, the iconic passenger liner UNITED STATES departed from Philadelphia on February 19, en route to Mobile, Alabama for its final journey. The vessel, once the fastest liner to sail the North Atlantic, will be sunk as a dive reef off Okaloosa County, Florida. Despite numerous preservation efforts, the UNITED STATES will live on as a testament to its storied history and legacy in maritime transportation.