Measure would require future surface warships to be nuclear [View All]

[jpak]

http://www.dailypress.com/news/dp-news_cruiser_1209dec09,0,310389.story

WASHINGTON - House and Senate negotiators have agreed on a defense policy bill that would require the Navy to design all future classes of major warships with nuclear power — a decision that potentially opens up more work for Northrop Grumman Newport News.

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Lawmakers acknowledged the cost but said the United States had a national security interest in building toward a nuclear fleet.

In an age of terrorism, they said, it's dangerous for the U.S. military to depend on foreign oil and frequent refuelings during long deployments.

A terrorist strike against oil tankers needed for refueling, they noted, could cripple the conventionally powered cruisers and other escort ships needed to protect carriers.

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