Keeping 11 carriers to be 'tough fight'

It could be rough seas for Virginia leaders who want to maintain the flattop fleet's current size.

Nearly two years ago, Rep. J. Randy Forbes, R-Chesapeake, issued a news release that expressed concern about the potential for China to build aircraft carriers.

Forget potential. Last month, the Chinese Defense Ministry said carriers were "a reflection of the nation's comprehensive power" and were needed to meet the demands of its navy.

As the United States prepares to commission a carrier today amid rising federal budget deficits and expensive government bailouts — now balanced against the specter of a rising overseas superpower — it's certain to spur renewed debate over the size of the U.S. flattop fleet.

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