Why Are Navy Ships So Expensive?

Naval ships are undoubtedly more expensive than commercial merchant ships, with a myriad of factors contributing to their higher costs. This article will delve into the reasons behind this significant expense.

The Construction Material and Design

The hull of a naval ship is constructed using thicker, higher-quality steel. This type of steel is more corrosion-resistant, ensuring the integrity of the vessel over extended periods. Additionally, the refined construction materials and advanced design techniques used in naval ships are crucial, as they are built to withstand adverse environmental conditions, including rough seas and extreme weather.

Advanced Weapon Systems and Sensors

Warships are equipped with an expansive array of weapons and sensors that are far superior to those found on commercial ships. These include missiles, torpedoes, radars, and sonars. The cost of such advanced equipment can be staggering. For example, the cost of a single missile can range from hundreds of thousands to several millions of dollars, depending on its capabilities. The integration and maintenance of these systems also add to the overall cost.

Unmatched Communication Equipment

Warships are fitted with sophisticated communication systems that are not only advanced but also highly secure. These systems are designed to be integrated with the ship’s various subsystems, providing seamless data exchange and ensuring secure communication with other vessels and command centers. In contrast, commercial ships are equipped with standard communication equipment that are primarily focused on navigation and safety, not combat operations.

Specialized Construction and Standards

Naval ships are built to stringent standards that go far beyond those required for commercial vessels. The construction process involves conforming to military specifications, which include rigorous testing and certification procedures. This ensures that the ship can operate safely and effectively in any environment, while still maintaining stealth and combat readiness.

Customization and Proprietary Technology

Naval ships often incorporate custom-built systems that are proprietary and produced in limited quantities, leading to higher costs. These systems are often not only advanced but also have unique features that enhance their performance. For instance, the software and hardware used in combat systems are developed to specific specifications and are not easily interchangeable with commercial counterparts.

The contractors involved in the construction of naval ships also add to the overall cost. There is evidence of bloating and kickbacks, which are used to support political campaigns. This contributes to additional expenses that are passed on to the taxpayers.

Expensive Electronics and Redundancies

The electronics on a warship are a major part of the overall cost, often amounting to more than the hull itself. Civilian vessels, while having advanced electronics, do not meet the same stringent military standards. For instance, in a 65-foot civilian boat, the electronic systems can cost upwards of $100,000. In naval vessels, the cost of electronics is significantly higher, including hardening, integration, and redundancies.

The bridge systems on naval ships are integrated with combat systems, which require specialized coding and integration. This integration can lead to additional costs as companies like Raytheon must develop and maintain complex software systems. Additionally, the bridge systems often house outdated technology, adding to the overall cost.

Secure Communication and CIC Nodes

CIC (Combat Information Center) nodes are critical components of naval ships, designed to provide secure and redundant communication channels. These nodes are often integrated with the weapons systems, further increasing the complexity and cost of the ship’s subsystems. The secure communications required for these nodes can be highly specialized and expensive to develop and maintain.

Conclusion

In summary, the high cost of naval ships is driven by a combination of advanced materials, specialized equipment, stringent construction standards, and the integration of highly customized and proprietary systems. While commercial ships also require advanced systems, the extent and quality of these systems in naval vessels are unparalleled, making them significantly more expensive.