As reported by Axios on December 7, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump has approved a Navy shipbuilding framework known as the “Golden Fleet,” according to remarks by Navy Secretary John Phelan. The concept preserves existing carrier, submarine, destroyer, and amphibious programs while prioritizing additional surface combatants, auxiliaries, and unmanned vessels, as China continues to expand its naval forces. It was discussed following a White House meeting with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and OMB Director Russell Vought. Read full defense news at this link...
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| This shipbuilding push is presented against a yardstick in which U.S. shipbuilders produce less than 1% of China’s annual output by tonnage, a gap the administration is seeking to narrow through higher activity, new entrants, and accelerated programs. (Picture source: US Navy) |