B Eric Smith News Today

General Eric Smith, President Biden's pick to be the next commandant of the Marine Corps, told Congress on Tuesday that he needs a minimum of 31 amphibious ships in order to carry out the service's mission as it undergoes a major transformation of its mission to help confront a rising China.

President Biden has nominated Gen. Eric Smith, currently the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, to take over the top job following the retirement of Gen. David Berger after four transformative years as commandant.