In a recent announcement, former President Donald Trump outlined plans for the construction of two “Trump-class battleships” as part of a new “Golden Fleet” for the U.S. Navy, criticizing current naval vessels as “old,” “tired,” and “obsolete.” Trump stated that construction would begin “almost immediately,” with potential discussions about building up to 25 vessels in the future. He emphasized that these new ships will be equipped with advanced technologies, including hypersonic weapons, electric railguns, and high-powered lasers, asserting they would be unmatched in speed and power.
While he did not disclose the cost of the project, Trump encouraged defense contractors to reinvest profits into production capabilities rather than stock buybacks. He plans to meet with these contractors in Florida next week to discuss these initiatives. The anticipated timeline for building the vessels is approximately two and a half years.
This announcement coincides with escalating U.S. efforts against Venezuela, including recent operations to intercept drug-trafficking boats and enforcement of a blockade on Venezuelan oil. Trump mentioned ongoing efforts to pursue a sanctioned tanker that fled to the Caribbean.
At the announcement event held at Mar-a-Lago, Trump was joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of the Navy John Phelan. Phelan highlighted that the new battleship would be capable of commanding a wide range of military assets, including drones and other warships.
Why this story matters
- Reflects a significant push for modernization in U.S. naval capabilities amid geopolitical tensions.
Key takeaway
- The “Trump-class” battleships promise cutting-edge technology and a notable increase in military strength.
Opposing viewpoint
- Critics may argue that the focus should be on improving current vessels rather than investing heavily in new construction amid budget concerns.
