Trump Unveils Ambitious Trump Class Battleship Plan for US Navy

World

Updated on Dec - 23 - 2025, 05:31 AM

US President Donald Trump has announced an ambitious naval modernization proposal that includes the development of a new class of battleships, informally referred to as the Trump class. The plan is aimed at significantly expanding American maritime power and reinforcing the country’s position as a dominant force at sea. Speaking at an event in Florida, Trump described the proposal as a key pillar of a renewed naval strategy and a strong message to global rivals about US military strength.

According to the proposal, the Trump class battleships would form part of a broader naval force often described as a Golden Fleet. These ships would be among the largest surface combat vessels built for the US Navy in decades. Trump claimed the battleships would be faster, larger, and far more powerful than any previous battleship, reflecting his belief that overwhelming military capability is essential for effective deterrence.

The initial phase of the plan includes the construction of two Trump class ships, with longer-term ambitions to expand the fleet to between 20 and 25 vessels. The first ship is expected to be named USS Defiant. The proposed design reportedly includes advanced military technologies such as hypersonic missiles, laser-based defense systems, and modern weapons platforms capable of both long-range attack and advanced defense operations.

Supporters of the plan argue that the United States must respond to rapidly intensifying naval competition, particularly from China, which currently operates the world’s largest navy by number of ships. They believe the Trump class battleships would help the US maintain a technological edge in surface warfare and strengthen its ability to project power in strategically important regions such as the Indo Pacific

However, critics have raised concerns about the practicality and cost of reviving battleship-style vessels in modern warfare. Many defense analysts question whether traditional battleships remain relevant in an era increasingly shaped by aircraft carriers, submarines, cyber warfare, and unmanned systems. Some of the technologies proposed for the Trump class ships are still in development or have faced challenges in earlier defense programs, prompting warnings against unrealistic expectations.

The announcement also reflects broader geopolitical goals. The naval expansion plan comes alongside increased US military deployments in the Caribbean and Pacific regions, including operations linked to security enforcement and strategic positioning near sensitive areas.

At present, the Trump class battleship initiative remains a proposal that will require congressional approval and detailed defense planning. Whether it evolves into a major transformation of naval power or remains an ambitious vision will depend on funding decisions, technological progress, and shifting global security priorities.