Report on procurement strategy for submarine cable laying and repair ships

(a) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the strategy of the Navy for procuring at least two cable laying and repair ships to replace the USNS Zeus as it nears the end of its expected service life. (b) Elements The report under subsection (a) shall include— (1) a description of the full scope of the planned capabilities for the next generation of cable laying and repair ships to meet anticipated Navy requirements, including the feasibility of establishing organic capabilities; (2) a projected timeline for the procurement of such ships, including the expected time until such ships will be operational; (3) an explanation of how the Navy plans to meet Service requirements for submarine cable laying and repair during the period before which the Navy is able to field new capabilities. (c) Form of report The report required under subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex.