China’s rapid expansion of its naval power has prompted the U.S. Navy to consider warships built in Japan and South Korea as it seeks to expand its fleet. The Navy is evaluating the option of purchasing ships from allied shipyards in these countries.
A Navy official said various options were being studied to meet the president’s directive to deliver ships in a shorter timeframe. These options include long-term investments, technology transfers and expanding the workforce at U.S. shipyards.
Another Navy official said the current number of ships was insufficient and indicated that vessels built in Japan could also be considered. “We could buy some Japanese frigates. They are excellent,” the official said.
Transitioning from foreign shipyards to U.S. production
The option of procuring ships from overseas emerged after U.S. President Donald Trump issued a memorandum in August to expand the country’s shipbuilding capacity.
Under the policy, foreign shipbuilders that make major investments in U.S. shipyards would initially be allowed to build no more than two ships at shipyards in their home countries. The next stage of production is expected to move to the United States.
2027 budget proposes $65.8 billion for shipbuilding
The U.S. administration’s fiscal 2027 budget request calls for $65.8 billion to be allocated to Navy shipbuilding. The request covers 34 combat and support vessels.
Until domestic production capacity in the United States expands, production at foreign shipyards could help meet the Navy’s more urgent need for ships.
China’s growing fleet increases pressure on the United States
China’s rapid naval expansion has intensified pressure on U.S. efforts to increase shipbuilding capacity. Japan’s Defense Ministry said the number of China’s modern destroyers and frigates had increased approximately sevenfold since 2001.
The United States trails China in shipbuilding capacity. While the U.S. shipbuilding industry declined after the Cold War, China rapidly expanded its industrial base and became the world’s largest commercial shipbuilder.
