Marines and Navy at odds over ship priorities.

• Position: Washington PULSE

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Marine Corps officials for some time have grumbled about the Navy not buying enough amphibious transport ships. These vessels are essential for Marine deployments, officials contend.

Marines argue that they need more amphibious ships to respond to crises around the world and for humanitarian operations. Other ships in the Navy's budget, such as attack submarines, are less urgently needed because they only are useful in major wars against naval powers.

"We need to think how we spend our money," said Lt...