China Brands Trump’s Battleship an ‘Easier Target’ Amid US Mixed Reactions
In a surprising announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump declared on December 22 the construction of a new class of battleships, potentially named the “Trump class.” This initiative aims to bolster the U.S. Navy’s capabilities amidst growing naval competition, particularly with China.
China’s Reaction to Trump’s Battleship Announcement
Following Trump’s declaration, the Chinese state media reported on the proposal’s implications. Naval researcher Zhang Junshe, from the People’s Liberation Army Naval Military Academic Research Institute, stated that the new class of battleships would likely be seen as “easier targets” by China’s improving anti-ship missile systems. Zhang specifically highlighted concerns about the size of the proposed vessels, making them more vulnerable in combat.
Trump Class Battleships: Costs and Specifications
The proposed Trump class is estimated to cost up to $15 billion for the first vessel, officially named the USS Defiant. Each additional battleship could carry an estimated price tag of approximately $10 billion. According to reports, this new design, with a length range of 840 to 880 feet, echoes the dimensions of historical Iowa-class battleships, but with significant advancements.
- Initial ship cost: $15 billion
- Subsequent ships: $10 billion each
- Length: 840 to 880 feet
- Beam: 105 to 115 feet
Industry Perspectives
Reactions from the shipbuilding industry were mixed. Charles F. Krugh, president of Bath Iron Works, expressed readiness to support the Navy in this ambitious project. Huntington Ingalls’ president also conveyed enthusiasm for the initiative, underlining the importance of building advanced combat vessels.
Navy’s Strategic Concerns
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle emphasized the urgency of advancing fleet capabilities to counteract China’s growing naval power. He indicated that the Navy’s current force consists of approximately 290 ships, significantly trailing behind China’s estimated fleet of 370 vessels. Caudle’s statements underscored the need for rapid ship production to safeguard U.S. maritime interests.
Technological Innovations and Challenges
Trump touted his envisioned battleships as the most powerful ever, claiming they would be equipped with technologies such as nuclear-armed cruise missiles and hypersonic weaponry. However, critics raised concerns over the practicality of integrating such advanced systems, particularly technologies that had previously been discontinued, such as the electromagnetic railgun.
- Planned technologies: high-powered lasers, nuclear missiles, hypersonic weapons
- Previous technology abandoned: electromagnetic railgun
Critiques of the Proposal
Some analysts voiced skepticism about the project’s feasibility, suggesting it might face cancellation by future administrations, citing costs and operational concerns. Mark Cancian, a defense expert, noted that the ship’s concept could contradict the Navy’s evolving operational strategies. He predicted significant challenges in actualizing the battleship plan, potentially halting its progress before completion.
Despite these criticisms, retired Admiral James Foggo highlighted the positive aspect of presidential support for naval development, recognizing the initiatives as beneficial for U.S. maritime strategy.
Congressional Oversight and Future Considerations
As discussions unfold, the Congressional Research Service is advocating for a careful examination of the proposed battleship program. Key aspects include analyzing the procurement process, cost-effectiveness, and readiness of advanced technologies for the 2030s.
The outcome of this initiative could redefine U.S. naval strategy and its response to growing global maritime challenges, putting pressure on both policymakers and the defense industry to adapt swiftly.
