Two retired Navy officers, Commander Bryan McGrath and Captain Jerry Hendrix, debated the effectiveness and efficiency of aircraft carriers for maritime defense strategy for the U.S. military. Mr. McGrath argued that “nuclear aircraft carriers with air wings are the most cost effective and efficient platform to project power in the maritime and littoral realm to support U.S. national security interests in current and future security environments.” Captain Hendrix argued against the resolution.

Caption
Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks to reporters after watching people board a repatriation flight bound for Colombia in Panama City on February 3, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein/AFP via Getty Images)