Today's maritime forces have greater speed, range, endurance, and a wider array of power projection options. They now also include the strike capabilities of aircraft, submarines and dedicated amphibious assault forces. Still the use of the surface combatant and its weapon systems continue to be relied upon as a key aspect of naval power, as they offer a clear presence that can remain in the area as needed and act as needed based on the circumstances and as a situation demands. They are equally capable of providing an obvious show of force or remaining over the horizon to conduct strikes repeatedly, if necessary. Theirs may be a temporary incursion by a small force or a more sizable operation. Surface combatant strike capabilities today include naval guns and a range of precision sea to surface missiles with effective ranges measured in hundreds of kilometres.
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