CNO Futures Game Emphasizes Innovative Strategies for Future Naval Operations

Newport, R.I. – Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Lisa Franchetti hosted the CNO Futures Game at the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, from July 16-17. The event brought together leaders across the Joint Force to strategize and integrate new technologies and capabilities for future naval operations.

Preparing for Tomorrow’s Complex Battlefield

Adm. Franchetti underscored the importance of innovative thinking and operational flexibility in the face of evolving global threats. “It is our duty to plan for the future and ensure our Fleet is always ready to preserve the peace, respond in crisis, and win decisively in war,” she stated. Franchetti emphasized that the Navy must leverage conventional capabilities alongside hybrid, unmanned, and disruptive technologies. She highlighted the necessity of collaboration with Joint teammates, Allies, and partners to effectively carry out missions.

Strategic Insights from the Futures Game

The Futures Game, organized by Vice Adm. Dan Dwyer, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Warfighting Development, serves as a pivotal part of the Navy’s analytic efforts. “The Navy uses events like the CNO Futures Game to shape and inform naval strategy, analysis, operational concepts, and warfighting requirements,” said Dwyer. By exploring potential future scenarios, the Navy can better understand and address the operational challenges it may face.

Integrating Wargaming into Naval Strategy

Wargaming plays a crucial role in the Navy’s strategic planning, providing a rigorous and comprehensive examination of strategic and operational concepts. These exercises support CNO decision-making on critical issues. “Our ability to test alternative concepts, reinvigorate analysis, and explore future force structure options will enable us to field a force capable of responding to all threats–anywhere and anytime,” Franchetti noted.

The U.S. Naval War College (NWC) leads the Navy’s wargaming efforts as part of the Analytic Master Plan (AMP). Since 1887, NWC has conducted wargaming exercises, evolving its tools and technology to keep pace with modern demands. Today, NWC conducts over 50 gaming events annually, ranging from complex computer-assisted games to simple seminar games.

A New Era of Leadership

This year marked Adm. Franchetti’s first time hosting the Futures Game as CNO, having previously hosted it as Vice Chief of Naval Operations in 2023. Her leadership emphasizes the importance of preparing the Navy to meet future challenges through innovative strategies and strong collaboration across the Joint Force.

Conclusion

The CNO Futures Game exemplifies the Navy’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging threats through continuous innovation and strategic planning. By integrating new technologies and fostering collaboration, the Navy aims to ensure its readiness to preserve peace and security worldwide.

For more information about the CNO Futures Game and the Navy’s strategic initiatives, visit the U.S. Naval War College’s official website.