SAN DIEGO – Leaders from across the Navy, business, and academia gathered to discuss the future of naval surface warfare at the fifth annual Surface Navy Association (SNA) West Coast Waterfront Symposium onboard Naval Base San Diego, Aug. 14-15.

The theme of the professional development event was “Warriors and Warfighting,” which drew inspiration from the focus of January's SNA National Symposium, “The Fight, The Force, The Future.”

Vice Adm. Brendan McLane, commander, Naval Surface Forces delivered keynote remarks centered on warfighting and warfighters. He discussed the competitive edge our Sailors deliver every day.

McLane reinforced the Surface Force North Star 75.

“We have get the North Star of 75 right,” said McLane. “We’re fighting in the Red Sea now. Our ships have a deterrent effect, but if that fails, we have to be ready to fight anywhere in the world, and that’s going to take 75 ships at a minimum.”

The Surface Navy Association was incorporated in 1985 to promote greater coordination and communication among the military, business, and academic communities who share a common interest in naval surface warfare and to support the activities of Surface Naval Forces. The SNA is dedicated to recognizing the continuing contributions of the United States Navy and Coast Guard’s surface forces, showcasing professional excellence within the surface naval forces, dealing with the challenges faced by surface naval forces, nurturing communication among military, academic, and business communities, enhancing and preserving the heritage of the surface naval forces, and providing forums on professional matters affecting the surface naval forces.

The mission of CNSP is to man, train, and equip the Surface Force to provide fleet commanders with credible naval power to control the sea and project power ashore.

For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit https://www.surfpac.navy.mil/.