US Navy To Transform Oil Rigs Into Offshore Military Bases To Counter China
US Navy To Transform Oil Rigs Into Offshore Military Bases To Counter China
The US Navy will convert surplus oil rigs into mobile missile defense and resupply bases to counter threats in the Pacific, especially from China.
The initiative was revealed at the Sea Air Space 2024 expo in Washington DC and is part of a broader effort to enhance US military capabilities in the region.
Gibbs & Cox developed the project to transform surplus oil platforms into floating island bases that can operate independently for over 12 months.
Known as the Mobile Defense/Depot Platform (MODEP) concept, these converted platforms will be positioned at an ideal distance from shore.
They will enhance US air defence capabilities in the region and aid in strike missions.
These platforms can hold 100 large missile launchers and are highly capable than naval vessels.
A US Navy Official highlighted the platforms’ importance in reducing risks and costs compared to land-based defence systems.
However, some have highlighted the dangers of these semi-permanent offshore bases, their vulnerability to attacks and their ineffectiveness compared to land bases.
This project reflects a shift in US Military strategy as the nation responds to new geopolitical threats.