Upon returning from deployment, Navy Carrier Air Wings will normally experience a drop in their readiness status ,which will then increase as the air wing prepares for deployment -- this is referred to as the "readiness bath tub."  Since Fiscal Year 1996 this readiness bath tub has grown progressively deeper.  The Navy saw a slight improvement for their FY01 deployers.

    To support the Global Naval Force Presence Policy (GNFPP), deploying units must be C2 or better.  While the Navy can meet the GNFPP, their current readiness status impacts their ability to meet a 2 Major Theater War scenario.  The Navy warns, "The Joint Monthly Readiness Review (JMRR) analysis often has the follow on CVBGs arrive late, not fully equipped, or both.  A combination of equipment shortages, PGM inventory, and training bottlenecks create difficulties in meeting the force flow timelines."
 

    Provide funding necessary to enable the Navy to meet current readiness requirements in support of both GNFPP and the Navy's wartime missions.