
A soon-to-be-completed study on the U.S. Navy’s force structure could call for an increase in the service’s requirement for 48 Virginia-class fast-attack submarines, two Navy officials said July 14.The Navy’s plan for 48 submarines was formulated over a decade ago, and much has changed in the world since then, including the increased possession of sophisticated arms by potential adversaries, said Rear Adm. Charles Richard, director of undersea warfare, and Rear Adm. Michael Jabaley, program executive officer for submarines.“Our competitors are pursuing advanced…